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X-WR-CALNAME:Minnesota River Valley - Audubon Chapter
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mrvac.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Minnesota River Valley - Audubon Chapter
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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: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: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: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: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: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: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: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: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: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: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:20260808T063000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260809T130000
DTSTAMP:20260622T125649Z
CREATED:20260622T125342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T125649Z
UID:10000273-1786170600-1786280400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Martin County Birding Days
DESCRIPTION:Martin County Birding Days \nAugust 8\, 9\, 2026 – 6:30 a.m. start \nCraig Mandel — 952-240-7647 \nCost: $25 for MRVAC members\, $35 for non-members \nJoin us for a two day visit to Martin County. Some of the locations we may have time to bird in the county include Cedar Hanson\, Bright Lake\, Perch Lake and Timberlane County Parks.  We should have time to visit some WPA and WMAs near Fairmont.  Please contact Craig to register for this trip.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/7316/
LOCATION:Super 8 by Wyndham Fairmont\, 1200 Torgerson Drive\, Fairmont\, MN\, 56031-0422\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260720T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260720T103000
DTSTAMP:20260622T122851Z
CREATED:20260622T122851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T122851Z
UID:10000272-1784534400-1784543400@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: Monday\, July 20\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the trailhead at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center. 15865 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\nJul 20\, 2026 8:00 am – Jul 20\, 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-10/
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:20260718T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260718T103000
DTSTAMP:20260326T001221Z
CREATED:20260326T001221Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T001221Z
UID:10000269-1784361600-1784370600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:July 18 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nBirdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and\ndocumenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\,\nwhich will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include\nTrumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos\nand American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, July 18\, 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 required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \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-9/
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:20260705T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260705T103000
DTSTAMP:20260326T000839Z
CREATED:20260326T000839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T000839Z
UID:10000268-1783238400-1783247400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:July 5 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nBirdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and\ndocumenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\,\nwhich will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include\nTrumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos\nand American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, July 5\, 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 required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \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-7/
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:20260628T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260628T103000
DTSTAMP:20260309T185345Z
CREATED:20260309T185345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T185345Z
UID:10000261-1782633600-1782642600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:June 28 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nBirdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and\ndocumenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\,\nwhich will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include\nTrumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos\nand American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, June 28\, 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 required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \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-6/
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:20260617T061500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260618T140000
DTSTAMP:20260309T183713Z
CREATED:20260309T183713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T183713Z
UID:10000260-1781676900-1781791200@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Brown County Birding Days
DESCRIPTION:Brown County Birding Days\nJune 17\, 18\, 2026 – 6:15 a.m. start\nCraig Mandel — 952-240-7647\nCost: $25 for MRVAC members\, $35 for non-members\nJoin us for a two day visit to Brown County. With a state park\, some county parks and lots of WMAs and some quality woodlands along the Minnesota River.  We’ll have plenty of locations to search for the species of birds that breed in Brown County.  Please contact Craig to register for this trip.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/brown-county-birding-days/
LOCATION:Best Western New Ulm\, 2101 S Broadway Street\, New Ulm\, MN\, 56073\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260614T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260614T103000
DTSTAMP:20260309T014938Z
CREATED:20260309T014938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T014938Z
UID:10000259-1781424000-1781433000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and\ndocumenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\,\nwhich will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include\nTrumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos\nand American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, June 7\, 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 required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \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-5/
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:20260531T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T103000
DTSTAMP:20260116T034701Z
CREATED:20260116T034701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T034701Z
UID:10000243-1780214400-1780223400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 31 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. For these spring walks\, the birds observed will change as the season unfolds. Expect waterfowl on the March and April walks\, followed by sparrows and warblers on the walks in May. We will get to know the birds that migrate through the refuge each spring and those that stay to nest on the refuge. Bring along your binoculars\, favorite field guide and dress appropriately for the weather. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, May 31st from 8:00 am -10:30 am. \nLocation: Rapids Lake Visitor Center – 15865 Rapids Lake Rd\, Carver\, MN 55315 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program.  To register visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge website.  Select the program you are interested in registering for and you will be taken to the sign up page.  Please indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. This program is capped at 25 participants. \nActivity Level: Easy-active\, we will walk slowly and make frequent stops. \nMeet Us: Meet at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center. Enter through the main doors. \nWhat to Bring: Meet outside the Rapids Lake visitor center near the parking lot. Please consider carpooling with others in your party due to limited parking. \nAccessibility: Outdoor restrooms are located at the visitor center; no water is available at this site. This walk takes place on mostly flat ground on a paved trail and natural surface paths. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may not be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Participants will navigate a short\, paved decline from the parking lot to the river valley. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. \nProgram Leader: This program is led by Volunteer Naturalist Craig Mandel. Craig has been leading bird walks on the refuge for more than two decades. For questions about these walks\, please contact Craig at 952-240-7647. \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.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-26/
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:20260530T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T103000
DTSTAMP:20260116T030322Z
CREATED:20260116T030322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T030322Z
UID:10000242-1780128000-1780137000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 30 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 30\, 2026\, from 8-10:30 am. \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \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.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-25/
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:20260510T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260510T103000
DTSTAMP:20260130T054745Z
CREATED:20260115T015449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T054745Z
UID:10000238-1778400000-1778409000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 10 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 10\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \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.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-22/
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:20260509T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260509T103000
DTSTAMP:20260115T030225Z
CREATED:20260115T030225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T030225Z
UID:10000240-1778313600-1778322600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge.  Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 9\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \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.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-24/
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:20260505T061500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T140000
DTSTAMP:20260309T182402Z
CREATED:20260115T032313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T182402Z
UID:10000241-1777961700-1778076000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Wilkin County Birding Days
DESCRIPTION:Wilkin County Birding Days\nMay 5\, 6\, 2026 – 6:15 a.m. start\nCraig Mandel — 952-240-7647\nCost: $25 for MRVAC members\, $35 for non-members\nJoin us for a two day visit to Wilkin County. We’ll be some Prairie SNA\, for grassland birds and we will check some wetlands for waterfowl and shorebirds.  We will also spend time in some wooded areas in and around the town of Breckenridge in search of migrant Warblers and other migrating songbirds. Please contact Craig to register for this trip.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/wilkin-county-birding-days/
LOCATION:Baymont by Wyndham Wahpeton\, 1800 Two Ten Drive\, Wahpeton\, ND\, 58075\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260503T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260503T103000
DTSTAMP:20260115T030329Z
CREATED:20260115T021516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T030329Z
UID:10000239-1777795200-1777804200@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge.  Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, May 3\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \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.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-23/
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:20260502T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260502T103000
DTSTAMP:20260115T022255Z
CREATED:20260114T224627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T022255Z
UID:10000237-1777708800-1777717800@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 2 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CST\nFree\nBirdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and\ndocumenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge.  Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\,\nwhich will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include\nTrumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos\nand American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 2\, 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 required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \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-4/
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
END:VCALENDAR