What we’re about
This Meetup group provides free events and activities centered around the Big 6 wildlife-dependent recreational uses for visitors of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge - hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, environmental education and interpretation.
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is composed of 14,000 acres that stretch 70 miles along the Minnesota River from Fort Snelling in Bloomington to Henderson and includes a 10,000-acre, 14-county Wetland Management District. Since its founding in 1976 by motivated residents, all activities and events at the Refuge have remained free and open to everyone. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is one of 14 National Priority Urban Refuges within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. With more than 46 miles of trails and two visitor centers, the Refuge is unique in its urban setting that is tucked within the shadows of the Mall of America and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, as well as within walking distance of the metro area's light rail system. The Refuge provides its 3.5 million neighbors in the Twin Cities, as well as visitors from around the world, with opportunities to connect with nature, participate in a variety of outdoor recreational activities, and improve habitat for resident and migrating wildlife. Plan your visit to Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge by visiting https://www.fws.gov/refuge/minnesota_valley/.
This group is sponsored by Minnesota Valley Refuge Friends, a mostly volunteer group supporting the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge through volunteering, fundraising and advocacy. To more, sign up for our newsletter and become a member at our website, https://www.mnvalleyrefugefriends.org/.
Photo of Old Cedar Avenue bridge by Mike Richards. Used with permission.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Plant Walk: Wildflowers of the Season *Register on signup.com*Louisville Swamp, Shakopee, MN
On this walk, we’ll be searching for the seasonal plants that are in bloom. We’ll spend time observing the plants in three different types of habitat, including an Oak Savanah, Restored Prairie and Upland Forest. Registration required.
Registration Information: Registration required on signup: https://signup.com/go/UYYNXjC. This program is capped at 20 participants. A cancellation notice will be sent in the event of inclement weather.
Activity Level: Easty active, we will walk slowly and make frequent stops.
Meet us: Meet us at the Louisville Swamp Trailhead in the parking lots.
What to bring: If you have one, please bring a favorite field guide. This program is held entirely outdoors, please dress appropriately for the weather.
Accessibility: Vault toilet Restrooms available at the trailhead. Drinking water will not be available. The trails are not plowed, so be prepared to walk in snow if it is present.
Accommodation: The 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.
