This past summer our family volunteered with our local county to test and observe some of the wetlands. It was a fascinating project and we all learned a lot, not only about what is in the water, but also what is around the water. Although the birds were not specifically part of our project, our leader always managed to tell our girls something about the birds he saw and heard.

We learned there are some great apps for learning bird calls that help identify them and also get them to call back. If you have an interest in this, then there is a great free event on Saturday (February 16th) in Bloomington. Tech Nature at MN Valley National Wildlife Refuge takes place from 1 – 3 pm. Through this event, you’ll learn about some of the great apps that you help you identify birds and other animals.

There are a million apps available for smartphones and now there are many apps specifically for enjoying nature or engaging in citizen science projects. Join Ranger Sharon to learn more about how to find and identify wildlife, report your sightings and even take pictures and video – all with the amazing smartphone in your pocket.

Led by National Park Service Ranger Sharon Stiteler.

Meet in the Auditorium at the Bloomington headquarters and visitor center building for Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge (3815 American Blvd. E, Bloomington, MN 55425).

If you’ve never been to the Harriet Alexander Nature Center, here is your chance to check it out.  We discovered it for the first time a couple of years ago and enjoyed it so much we have returned several times.  Located in the Roseville area, you can forget how close you are to the city at this hidden gem.  We enjoy the great walking trails and the nature center itself offers some great learning opportunities.  Tomorrow is the annual open house at HANC (Harriet Alexander Nature Center).  It takes place from 12:30-4:30.  The theme is “The Year of the Pig”, with all sorts of great activities, crafts, treats and exhibits to enjoy.

Come out to the Harriet Alexander Nature Center’s Open House for a celebration of pigs and their relatives as we mark the Year of the Pig on Sunday, February 10, 12:30-4:30pm. You’ll be “happy as a pig in clover” as you enjoy some music, treats, and some of the fun customs of Chinese New Year. As a special treat, Mudonna, the St. Paul Saints mascot, will be making an appearance from 1:30-2:30pm! You can also check out the nature center’s displays including the fabulous indoor tree feature and explore the boardwalk out in the marsh.

Depending where you are in MN, there are two different Fire & Ice Festivals taking place next weekend (February 2rd).

The 30th Annual Fire & Ice Festival takes place in Plymouth. A free event for the whole family. All the fun happens on and around Parkers Lake.

• recycling bin races
• hayrides
• snow bowling
• box hockey
• food trucks on hand to purchase food and snacks

The other option is on Lake Redwood near Redwood Falls.  Another fun event for the whole family.

• games
• bobski racing
• broomball
• bonfires
• fireworks

There’s no shortage of fun to be found this time of year, it’s just a matter of how many layers you need to wear.

It’s all about bundling up this week if you want to enjoy the outdoors.  Find ALL of your winter gear and have some fun at Ritter Fest near Lakeville tomorrow (January 27th).  No registration required and the small admission fee of $3 a person or $10 a carload will get you into the fun event.  Some of the activities taking place:

• A winter sleigh ride through the woods.
• Lakeville SnoTrackers will be available for snowmobile rides 
• Lakeville Parks & Recreation will provide snowshoes to try.
• Enjoy a hike through the beautiful Ritter Farm Park.

Right off 35W on the southside of Lakeville at 19300 Ritter Trail

Have you always wanted to own a snake or maybe a salamander?  Watching and learning about them is much easier and it’s free!  The Meet the Animals at the Maplewood Nature Center is a chance to ask questions and learn a bit more about some of the animals they offer homes to.  This all ages event takes place this coming Saturday from 10:30-noon.  Although it’s free they do ask that you register so they can plan a bit for the event.

**Fee: Free, register by Friday, January 25 at www.maplewoodnaturecenter.com and click on the RegisterOnline-Go button, or call 651-249-2170..Activity #16277