Nature is filled with fascinating organisms, come and plan to spend a few hours to learn about some of these vital organisms contributing to the health of our ecosystems - lichen! Learn lichen identification fundamentals, tips on where to find lichens, and learn of intriguing lichen properties, including smell, color changes, and air quality predictions! Through the workshop find out how you can contribute to a citizen science lichen project to help scientists better understand populations of various lichen species in our area of Minnesota.

The workshop will include formal instruction on lichen identification fundamentals, how to photograph lichens, and understand how lichens play an important role in our ecosystems. After instruction time, attendees will practice their lichen identification and photography skills at the beautiful Cloquet Forestry Center home to unique lichen communities! Participants will learn to use the Minnesota Lichen Map Project to help collect lichen occurrence data via citizen scientists-YOU!!

Location address: Cloquet Forestry Center, 175 University Road, Cloquet, MN 55720

Cancellation requests received more than two weeks before the start of class are refunded minus a $10.00 processing fee. For cancellation requests received less than two weeks before the start of class, no refunds will be given.

Lichen bike, Trails, Keys, and Monitors, lichens have been blazing trails in Minnesota this year. Welcome back to Cedar Creek Eco Reserve where we started. First, The MN Lichen Map will take you on the inaugural MN Lichen Trail at the Ney Nature Center via Google Earth! Bio-scientist Tanner Barnhart will teach the Keys to MN Lichens and help you sort out the many members of this family. Dr. Natalia Mossman-Koch returns to give an update on the U of MN Lichen Monitor Project. Dr. Daniel Stanton will guide participants in constructing three educational Lichen Monitor stations. Enjoy artwork from the LichenART Journal Workshop.It’s a busy day, but save time to explore the Cedar Creek Reserve lichens.

Location address: Cedar Creek, 2660 Fawn Lake Drive NE, East Bethel, MN 55005

Cancellation requests received more than two weeks before the start of class are refunded minus a $10.00 processing fee. For cancellation requests received less than two weeks before the start of class, no refunds will be given.

Awe in the auroras! Lots of hype around the Northern Lights - or auroras - lately. Learn about their cultural significance over time and what scientists know about them today. As we ride the peak of an 11 year cycle in 2024 and 2025, our chances to see them are increased. This is not a viewing program but will include how to increase your chances of seeing them. We will review apps, best local viewing areas, and learn how to get involved with NASAs Aurorasaurus citizen science project from one of their local volunteers. Join us!

Location address: Eastman Nature Center, 13351 Elm Creek Road, Dayton, MN 55369

Cancellation requests received more than two weeks before the start of class are refunded minus a $10.00 processing fee. For cancellation requests received less than two weeks before the start of class, no refunds will be given.

Research shows that spending just 2 hours/week in green space can statistically reduce high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. At the same time, it can increase focus, creativity, and optimism. What is the science behind this? How can we increase mindfulness and engage all our senses in the natural world? This class will look at the latest research of the benefits of spending time outside, how our physiology is positively impacted, and we will take time to try several experiences you can practice later on your own. We will spend approximately 45 minutes outside for this program. Come dressed for the weather.

Location address: Eastman Nature Center, 13351 Elm Creek Road, Dayton, MN 55369

Cancellation requests received more than two weeks before the start of class are refunded minus a $10.00 processing fee. For cancellation requests received less than two weeks before the start of class, no refunds will be given.