BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Minnesota River Valley - Audubon Chapter - ECPv6.18.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Minnesota River Valley - Audubon Chapter X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mrvac.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Minnesota River Valley - Audubon Chapter REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T103000 DTSTAMP:20260622T135904Z CREATED:20260622T135904Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T135904Z UID:10000274-1786780800-1786789800@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue \nImage Details\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, August 15\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the trailhead at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants\, register for this event is available at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. On their website\, go to the events page and locate the event you would like to register for and click on the sign up link to register. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-11/ LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260817T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260817T103000 DTSTAMP:20260622T143016Z CREATED:20260622T142923Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T143016Z UID:10000276-1786953600-1786962600@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Louisville Swamp \nImage Details\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Monday\, August 17\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the trailhead at the Louisville Swamp North Trailhead (Main Parking Area). \n3801 145th St W\, Shakopee\, MN 55379 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants\, register for this event is available at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. On their website\, go to the events page and locate the event you would like to register for and click on the sign up link to register. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Louisville Swamp North Trailhead (Main Parking Area): \nRestrooms are located at the parking lot. There are no water fountains or dedicated handicap parking. Trail is nature surface and mostly flat\, with a slight slope to reach the Mazomani trail. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no benches in the trail area. Trailhead is a URL:https://mrvac.org/event/7321/ LOCATION:Louisville Swamp Unit – Main Trailhead\, 3801 145th Street West\, Shakopee\, MN\, 55379\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T170000 DTSTAMP:20260817T000525Z CREATED:20260817T000525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T000525Z UID:10000279-1787468400-1787504400@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Central Dakota County Birding DESCRIPTION:Kickoff the start of fall migration by birding Dakota County with us.  We’ll meet at the Spring Lake Park Archery Range/Fahey Trailhead.  After a hike down to the river\, we will travel to several well-known and virtually unknown birding locations in central Dakota County. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/central-dakota-county-birding/ LOCATION:Spring Lake Park Preserve\, 13690 Pine Bend Trail\, Rosemount\, MN ORGANIZER;CN="Steve Weston":MAILTO:sweston2g@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T103000 DTSTAMP:20260622T143527Z CREATED:20260622T143527Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T143527Z UID:10000277-1787472000-1787481000@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Rapids Lake \nImage Details\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, August 23\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the trailhead at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center. \n15865 Rapids Lake Rd\, Carver\, MN 55315 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants\, register for this event is available at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. On their website\, go to the events page and locate the event you would like to register for and click on the sign up link to register. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center: \nRestrooms and a water bottle filler are available inside the visitor center. There is an outdoor restroom\, but no outdoor water fountains. There is dedicated handicap parking available. The Rapids Lake Trail and Forest Loop are flat natural surface paths and the trail leading to both is paved with a slight downward slope. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. It is a 0.1-0.2 mile walk to get to the trailhead from the parking lot. There are no rest areas along the trails\, but are present inside and outside the visitor center. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nEvent date and time\nAug 23\, 2026 8:00 am – Aug 23\, 2026 10:30 am (CDT)\nRegister Here\nEvent location name\nRapids Lake Visitor Center\nAddress\n15865 Rapids Lake Rd\nCarver\,\n55315\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-12/ LOCATION:Rapids Lake Visitor Center\, 15865 Rapids Lake Road\, Carver\, MN\, 55315\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T103000 DTSTAMP:20260828T223817Z CREATED:20260828T223817Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260828T223817Z UID:10000283-1787904000-1787913000@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nSeptember 29\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at Upper Trailhead at Bass Ponds – 2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants. Please visit the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website and go to the events page to register for this event. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nEvent date and time\nSep 29\, 2026\, 8:00 am – Sep 29\, 2026\, 10:30 am (CDT)\nRegister Here\nEvent location name\nBass Ponds\nAddress\n2501 86th St E\nBloomington\,\n55425\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-15/ LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260829T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260829T103000 DTSTAMP:20260622T143955Z CREATED:20260622T143955Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T143955Z UID:10000278-1787990400-1787999400@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Bloomington Ferry \nImage Details\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, August 29\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the trailhead at the Bloomington Ferry Trailhead \n11255 Bloomington Ferry Rd\, Bloomington\, MN 55438 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants\, register for this event is available at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. On their website\, go to the events page and locate the event you would like to register for and click on the sign up link to register. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bloomington Ferry: \nThere are no restrooms or water fountains at this location. There are no dedicated handicap parking spots. Bloomington Ferry and River Bottoms trails are natural surface\, mostly flat\, with entries to trails moderately sloped. Minnesota Valley State Trail is handicap accessible\, paved and mostly flat\, with access via a pedestrian bridge. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no benches in the area. Kiosk is a URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-13/ LOCATION:Bloomington Ferry Unit – Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260905T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260905T103000 DTSTAMP:20260829T022034Z CREATED:20260829T003023Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260829T022034Z UID:10000285-1788595200-1788604200@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob DESCRIPTION:Hello birders. Join me for all-levels welcome bird walks in Hennepin\, Ramsey\, and Dakota Counties. Our past walks have been well attended by both beginning birders and top-shelf veterans. Bring your cameras\, binoculars\, guides\, and phone apps while we look and listen for birds of the season. Bring water and dress accordingly.\nI am a current MRVAC member having recently served on its board as an ad hoc member for 3+ years and now have shifted my love of birds to field trips. We take a light-hearted approach to these trips and mistakes are par for all of us so don’t worry about this common phenomenon.\nAll walks are weather dependent. If severe weather is predicted I may cancel. It helps me if you let me know in advance if you are attending but no registration is required.\nBob Brereton\nText or call 651 775 7982\nrhb@homecustomizers.com\n­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­\nSeptember 5\, 2026: 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Grass Lake/Snail Lake in Shoreview under the solo\, ultra-tall\, radio/TV tower. Gramsie Road at Mackubin Street\, at the Snail Lake-Grass Lake Parking lot turn in\, just east downhill on Gramsie Road from Victoria at the four-way stop. Don’t park at the Snail Lake beach parking area. We are a half-mile south of it. We will explore the mixed trails here and if time permits\, we will briefly hike into southern Snail Lake wetlands. Our first trip here in August was a very pleasant surprise for a mid-week walk. There is a portable toilet.­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-walks-with-bob/ LOCATION:Grass Lake/Snail Lake – Tower Parking area\, 500 Gramsie Road\, Shoreview\, MN\, 55126\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Bob Brereton":MAILTO:rhb@homecustomizers.com GEO:45.060069;91.119243 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grass Lake/Snail Lake – Tower Parking area 500 Gramsie Road Shoreview MN 55126 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=500 Gramsie Road:geo:91.119243,45.060069 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T103000 DTSTAMP:20260829T025309Z CREATED:20260829T023745Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260829T025309Z UID:10000286-1789200000-1789209000@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob DESCRIPTION:Hello birders. Join me for all-levels welcome bird walks in Hennepin\, Ramsey\, and Dakota Counties. Our past walks have been well attended by both beginning birders and top-shelf veterans. Bring your cameras\, binoculars\, guides\, and phone apps while we look and listen for birds of the season. Bring water and dress accordingly.\nI am a current MRVAC member having recently served on its board as an ad hoc member for 3+ years and now have shifted my love of birds to field trips. We take a light-hearted approach to these trips and mistakes are par for all of us so don’t worry about this common phenomenon.\nAll walks are weather dependent. If severe weather is predicted I may cancel. It helps me if you let me know in advance if you are attending but no registration is required.\nBob Brereton\nText or call 651 775 7982\nrhb@homecustomizers.com\n­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­\n­­­\nSeptember 12\, 2026: 8:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Thomas Lake Park in Eagan. Take Pilot Knob Road to the park entrance between Diffley and Cliff Roads. It is just south past the huge power lines. Turn west into the large lot. This is a treasure of paved trails around Thomas Lake with varied terrain and plant life. Parking is free and ample. There are brick-and-mortar toilets\, portable toilets\, and many benches to bird from. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-walks-with-bob-2/ LOCATION:Thomas Lake Park\, 4425 Pilot Knob Road\, Eagan\, MN\, 55122\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Bob Brereton":MAILTO:rhb@homecustomizers.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T100000 DTSTAMP:20260828T210718Z CREATED:20260828T210718Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260828T210718Z UID:10000280-1789372800-1789380000@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nSeptember 14\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at Upper Trailhead at Bass Ponds – 2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants. Please visit the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website and go to the events page to register for this event. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nBass Ponds\nAddress\n2501 86th St E\nBloomington\,\n55425\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek/ LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T193000 DTSTAMP:20260311T143328Z CREATED:20260311T143328Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T143328Z UID:10000266-1789407000-1789414200@mrvac.org SUMMARY:MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group (SIG) Outdoor Bird Walk on second Monday evenings DESCRIPTION:Please join MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group for outdoor photography bird walks. \nWe will meet at 5:30pm.  The location is Old Cedar Avenue Bridge. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-photography-special-interest-group-sig-outdoor-bird-walk-on-second-monday-evenings-5/ LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260919T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260919T103000 DTSTAMP:20260828T211520Z CREATED:20260828T211520Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260828T211520Z UID:10000281-1789804800-1789813800@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, September 19\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at main entrance at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center. \n15865 Rapids Lake Rd\, Carver\, MN 55315 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants. Please visit the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website and go to the events page to register for this event.\nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center: \nRestrooms and a water bottle filler are available inside the visitor center. There is an outdoor restroom\, but no outdoor water fountains. There is dedicated handicap parking available. The Rapids Lake Trail and Forest Loop are flat natural surface paths and the trail leading to both is paved with a slight downward slope. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. It is a 0.1-0.2 mile walk to get to the trailhead from the parking lot. There are no rest areas along the trails\, but are present inside and outside the visitor center. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nSep 19\, 2026 8:00 am – 10:30 am\nRapids Lake Visitor Center\nAddress\n15865 Rapids Lake Rd\nCarver\,\n55315\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-8/ LOCATION:Rapids Lake Visitor Center\, 15865 Rapids Lake Road\, Carver\, MN\, 55315\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260919T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260919T103000 DTSTAMP:20260829T032417Z CREATED:20260829T032214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260829T032417Z UID:10000287-1789804800-1789813800@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob DESCRIPTION:Hello birders. Join me for all-levels welcome bird walks in Hennepin\, Ramsey\, and Dakota Counties. Our past walks have been well attended by both beginning birders and top-shelf veterans. Bring your cameras\, binoculars\, guides\, and phone apps while we look and listen for birds of the season. Bring water and dress accordingly.\nI am a current MRVAC member having recently served on its board as an ad hoc member for 3+ years and now have shifted my love of birds to field trips. We take a light-hearted approach to these trips and mistakes are par for all of us so don’t worry about this common phenomenon.\nAll walks are weather dependent. If severe weather is predicted I may cancel. It helps me if you let me know in advance if you are attending but no registration is required.\nBob Brereton\nText or call 651 775 7982\nrhb@homecustomizers.com \nSeptember 19\, 2026: 8:00a.m.-10:30 a.m. Snail Lake Wetlands in Shoreview. 4191 Snail Lake Blvd. 55126. There are brick and mortar toilets and drinking water at the south beach parking area (near the boat launch). We will try to hike a loop around the wetlands but if the trail is still flooded\, we will trek in and out on the same trail. Last time here we used the viaduct to take a brief glance at Grass Lake and a nice water structure at the viaduct that always seems to have birds. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-walks-with-bob-3/ LOCATION:Snail Lake Wetlands in Shoreview\, 4191 Snail Lake Blvd.\, Shoreview\, 55126\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Bob Brereton":MAILTO:rhb@homecustomizers.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260920T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260920T103000 DTSTAMP:20260828T223324Z CREATED:20260828T223324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260828T223324Z UID:10000282-1789891200-1789900200@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nSeptember 20\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at Upper Trailhead at Bass Ponds – 2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants. Please visit the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website and go to the events page to register for this event. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nEvent date and time\nSep 20\, 2026\, 8:00 am – Sep 20\, 2026\, 10:30 am (CDT)\nRegister Here\nEvent location name\nBass Ponds\nAddress\n2501 86th St E\nBloomington\,\n55425\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-14/ LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260926T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260926T103000 DTSTAMP:20260829T033104Z CREATED:20260829T032930Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260829T033104Z UID:10000288-1790409600-1790418600@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob DESCRIPTION:Hello birders. Join me for all-levels welcome bird walks in Hennepin\, Ramsey\, and Dakota Counties. Our past walks have been well attended by both beginning birders and top-shelf veterans. Bring your cameras\, binoculars\, guides\, and phone apps while we look and listen for birds of the season. Bring water and dress accordingly.\nI am a current MRVAC member having recently served on its board as an ad hoc member for 3+ years and now have shifted my love of birds to field trips. We take a light-hearted approach to these trips and mistakes are par for all of us so don’t worry about this common phenomenon.\nAll walks are weather dependent. If severe weather is predicted I may cancel. It helps me if you let me know in advance if you are attending but no registration is required.\nBob Brereton\nText or call 651 775 7982\nrhb@homecustomizers.com \nSeptember 26\, 2026: 8:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Bass Ponds Trailhead in Bloomington. 2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN. There is limited free parking as Old Cedar Bridge has lost some of its parking for construction at Long Meadow Lake. There is an all-concrete outhouse at the bottom of the dread Bass Ponds access road. One will not find a better spot than Bass Ponds anywhere on the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers just downstream presents a rich series of habitats for birds using the two major flyways. Lots of trail improvements are in place here and Ike’s Creek has been reworked with erosion controls and a new shortie pedestrian bridge feeding one into a compact trail around the storied Bass Ponds. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/7386/ LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Bob Brereton":MAILTO:rhb@homecustomizers.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260929T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260929T103000 DTSTAMP:20260828T230836Z CREATED:20260828T230836Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260828T230836Z UID:10000284-1790668800-1790677800@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nSeptember 29\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at Upper Trailhead at Bass Ponds – 2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants. Please visit the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website and go to the events page to register for this event. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nEvent date and time\nSep 29\, 2026\, 8:00 am – Sep 29\, 2026\, 10:30 am (CDT)\nRegister Here\nEvent location name\nBass Ponds\nAddress\n2501 86th St E\nBloomington\,\n55425\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-16/ LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261012T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261012T193000 DTSTAMP:20260311T143402Z CREATED:20260311T143402Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T143402Z UID:10000267-1791826200-1791833400@mrvac.org SUMMARY:MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group (SIG) Outdoor Bird Walk on second Monday evenings DESCRIPTION:Please join MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group for outdoor photography bird walks. \nWe will meet at 5:30pm.  The location is Old Cedar Avenue Bridge. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-photography-special-interest-group-sig-outdoor-bird-walk-on-second-monday-evenings-6/ LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261017T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261017T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T040838Z CREATED:20261014T040838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T040838Z UID:10000290-1792224000-1792233000@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, October 17\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the main entrance at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center. \n15865 Rapids Lake Rd\, Carver\, MN 55315 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center: \nRestrooms and a water bottle filler are available inside the visitor center. There is an outdoor restroom\, but no outdoor water fountains. There is dedicated handicap parking available. The Rapids Lake Trail and Forest Loop are flat natural surface paths and the trail leading to both is paved with a slight downward slope. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. It is a 0.1-0.2 mile walk to get to the trailhead from the parking lot. There are no rest areas along the trails\, but are present inside and outside the visitor center. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nEvent date and time\nOct 17\, 2026 8:00 am – Oct 17\, 2026 10:30 am (CDT)\nEvent location name\nRapids Lake Visitor Center\nAddress\n15865 Rapids Lake Rd\nCarver\,\n55315\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-2/ LOCATION:Rapids Lake Visitor Center\, 15865 Rapids Lake Road\, Carver\, MN\, 55315\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261018T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261018T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T173211Z CREATED:20261014T173211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T173211Z UID:10000291-1792310400-1792319400@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, October 18\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the kiosk at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead. \n7701 County Road 101 E\, Shakopee\, MN 55379 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead: \nThere are no restrooms or water located at this trailhead. The Minnesota Valley State Trail is a paved flat route\, and the Blue Lake Trail is natural surface and mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. The trailhead is URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-3/ LOCATION:Wilkie Unit Trailhead\, 7701 County Road 101 E.\, Shakopee\, MN\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261107T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T191606Z CREATED:20261014T181112Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T191606Z UID:10000292-1794038400-1794047400@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk and learn about the birds that can be observed on the refuge. Learn about the importance of different types of habitats at the refuge that support a wide variety of fall migrants. We’ll be watching for different species of Sparrows and with luck some large concentrations of Waterfowl. No bird watching experience is necessary for these programs. Extra binoculars will be available for those without their own pair. For those with more experience\, bring along your own optics\, field guides\, and dress for the weather. Registration is required for this event. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, November 07\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program.\nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov. \nEvent date and time\nNov 7\, 2026 8:00 am – Nov 7\, 2026 10:30 am (CDT)\nRegister Here\nEvent location name\nBass Ponds\nAddress\n2501 86th St E\nBloomington\,\n55425\nMN URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-17/ LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261108T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261108T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T191524Z CREATED:20261014T182651Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T191524Z UID:10000294-1794124800-1794133800@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk and learn about the birds that can be observed on the refuge. Learn about the importance of different types of habitats at the refuge that support a wide variety of fall migrants. We’ll be watching for different species of Sparrows and with luck some large concentrations of Waterfowl. No bird watching experience is necessary for these programs. Extra binoculars will be available for those without their own pair. For those with more experience\, bring along your own optics\, field guides\, and dress for the weather. Registration is required for this event.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, November 8\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the kiosk at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead. \n7701 County Road 101 E\, Shakopee\, MN 55379 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead: \nThere are no restrooms or water located at this trailhead. The Minnesota Valley State Trail is a paved flat route\, and the Blue Lake Trail is natural surface and mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. The trailhead is URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-20/ LOCATION:Wilkie Unit Trailhead\, 7701 County Road 101 E.\, Shakopee\, MN\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T210000 DTSTAMP:20261013T123104Z CREATED:20261013T123104Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261013T123104Z UID:10000289-1795114800-1795122000@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Annual fundraising auction DESCRIPTION: URL:https://mrvac.org/event/annual-fundraising-auction/ LOCATION:Richardson Nature Center\, Bloomington MN\, 8737 E Bush Lake Rd\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55438\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261128T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261128T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T191445Z CREATED:20261014T183243Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T191445Z UID:10000295-1795852800-1795861800@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk and learn about the birds that can be observed on the refuge. Learn about the importance of different types of habitats at the refuge that support a wide variety of fall migrants. We’ll be watching for different species of Sparrows and with luck some large concentrations of Waterfowl. No bird watching experience is necessary for these programs. Extra binoculars will be available for those without their own pair. For those with more experience\, bring along your own optics\, field guides\, and dress for the weather. Registration is required for this event. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, November 28\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the kiosk at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead. \n7701 County Road 101 E\, Shakopee\, MN 55379 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead: \nThere are no restrooms or water located at this trailhead. The Minnesota Valley State Trail is a paved flat route\, and the Blue Lake Trail is natural surface and mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. The trailhead is URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-27/ LOCATION:Wilkie Unit Trailhead\, 7701 County Road 101 E.\, Shakopee\, MN\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261129T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261129T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T191358Z CREATED:20261014T185242Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T191358Z UID:10000296-1795939200-1795948200@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue \nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk and learn about the birds that can be observed on the refuge. Learn about the importance of different types of habitats at the refuge that support a wide variety of fall migrants. We’ll be watching for different species of Sparrows and with luck some large concentrations of Waterfowl. No bird watching experience is necessary for these programs. Extra binoculars will be available for those without their own pair. For those with more experience\, bring along your own optics\, field guides\, and dress for the weather. Registration is required for this event. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, November 29\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the OCA parking lot at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program.\nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in\, but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-18/ LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T193055Z CREATED:20261014T193055Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T193055Z UID:10000297-1796457600-1796466600@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, December 5\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the kiosk at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead. \n7701 County Road 101 E\, Shakopee\, MN 55379 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead: \nThere are no restrooms or water located at this trailhead. The Minnesota Valley State Trail is a paved flat route\, and the Blue Lake Trail is natural surface and mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. The trailhead is URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-28/ LOCATION:Wilkie Unit Trailhead\, 7701 County Road 101 E.\, Shakopee\, MN\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261212T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261212T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T193606Z CREATED:20261014T193606Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T193606Z UID:10000298-1797062400-1797071400@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue \nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds\, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed\, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, December 12\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the OCA parking lot at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program is required and capped at 25 participants. To register for the program\, visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. Then go to the events page and choose the walk you would like to register for. Click on that program and it will take you to the registration page for the program.\nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in\, but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-29/ LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261219 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261220 DTSTAMP:20261014T202003Z CREATED:20261014T201116Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T202003Z UID:10000299-1797638400-1797724799@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Christmas Bird Count - Excelsior DESCRIPTION:Excelsior Christmas Bird Count \nDecember 19\, 2026 \nCompiler – Joseph Lindell \nRegistration – Laura Hanson – lhanson@isd108.org \nA full description with a map of the count circle is available on the Minnesota Ornithologist Union’s website at: https://moumn.org/ \nThey also have a list of past species counts from previous years\, dating back to 1951. There is also information on the weather on past counts and a large amount of historical data on the Excelsior Christmas Bird Count. \nPlease consider joining this and another Christmas Bird Count in the 2026/27 season. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/christmas-bird-count-excelsior/ ORGANIZER;CN="Laura":MAILTO:lhanson@isd108.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261219 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261220 DTSTAMP:20261014T202735Z CREATED:20261014T202610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T202735Z UID:10000300-1797638400-1797724799@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Christmas Bird Count - Bloomington DESCRIPTION:Bloomington Christmas Bird Count \nDecember 19\, 2026 \nCompiler – Liz Stanley \nRegistration – Liz Stanley – 952-884-1866 \nA full description with a map of the count circle is available on the Minnesota Ornithologist Union’s website at: https://moumn.org/ \nThey also have a list of past species counts from previous years\, dating back to 1966. There is also information on the weather on past counts and a large amount of historical data on the Bloomington Christmas Bird Count. \nPlease consider joining this and another Christmas Bird Count in the 2026/27 season. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/christmas-bird-count-bloomington/ ORGANIZER;CN="Liz Stanley":MAILTO:lhanson@isd108.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261219 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261220 DTSTAMP:20261014T203445Z CREATED:20261014T203318Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T203445Z UID:10000301-1797638400-1797724799@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Lakeville/Farmington Christmas Bird Count DESCRIPTION:Lakeville/Farmington Christmas Bird Count \nDecember 19\, 2026 \nCompiler – Tate Putman \nRegistration – Tate Putman – tateputman@gmail.com \nA full description with a map of the count circle is available on the Minnesota Ornithologist Union’s website at: https://moumn.org/ \nThey also have a list of past species counts from previous years\, dating back to 2022. There is also information on the weather on past counts and a large amount of historical data on the Lakeville/Farmington Christmas Bird Count. \nPlease consider joining this and another Christmas Bird Count in the 2026/27 season. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/lakeville-farmington-christmas-bird-count/ ORGANIZER;CN="Tate Putman":MAILTO:tateputman@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261220 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261221 DTSTAMP:20261014T204008Z CREATED:20261014T204008Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T204008Z UID:10000302-1797724800-1797811199@mrvac.org SUMMARY:Cedar Creek Bog Christmas Bird Count DESCRIPTION:Cedar Creek Bog Christmas Bird Count \nDecember 20\, 2026 \nCompiler – Steve Weston \nRegistration – Steve Weston – 612-978-5993 \nA full description with a map of the count circle is available on the Minnesota Ornithologist Union’s website at: https://moumn.org/ \nThey also have a list of past species counts from previous years\, dating back to 1945. There is also information on the weather on past counts and a large amount of historical data on the Cedar Creek Bog Christmas Bird Count. \nPlease consider joining this and another Christmas Bird Count in the 2026/27 season. URL:https://mrvac.org/event/cedar-creek-bog-christmas-bird-count/ ORGANIZER;CN="Steve Weston":MAILTO:sweston2g@gmail.com END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR