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X-WR-CALNAME:Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center
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BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
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DTSTART:20240310T080000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250809T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250809T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250630T185045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250630T185046Z
UID:10000018-1754731800-1754740800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Regular Buckthorn Removal Days
DESCRIPTION:Thanks to a grant through the Minnesota DNR and the Minnesota Legacy Fund\, we are working to get rid of all the buckthorn in Sunfish Lake Park. We contract with Stantec to clear large areas with heavy machinery\, but there are some areas that can’t be easily accessed by vehicles where volunteers can participate on foot by clearing invasives or planting native species. On the second Saturday of every month\, we get a crew together to go out and perform this vital work. We have the loppers and gloves\, bring your energy\, and we can offer you free fresh air and exercise. Work starts at 9:30\, and we can find something for all ages and abilities!
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/regular-buckthorn-removal-days-3/2025-08-09/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Outside-e1715621594754.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250804T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250807T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250128T192654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T104033Z
UID:10000124-1754298000-1754571600@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Sunfish Explorers: It's a Bug's Life (9 a.m. to noon\, M-Th)
DESCRIPTION:For campers ages 5 to 8\, this four-day camp meets from 9 a.m. to noon\, Monday through Thursday. Fun Fact: There is only one insect\, a wingless midge\, found in Antarctica! Camp week will be filled with dragonfly hikes\, looking at bugs under microscopes and gathering an understanding for the important role bugs play in nature’s system. \nOur weeklong camps offer small group camps that encourage and educate the youth of tomorrow about the beauty and importance of a healthy outdoors. Each camp will have special guests such as the Dodge Nature Center and their raptors and the 3M Wizards. Camps include hikes\, crafts\, games and of course a little education about the outdoors! Cost: $200 per child/per session. To register your child\, follow the link: https://square.link/SUNFISH EXPLORERS
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/sunfish-explorers-its-a-bugs-life-9-a-m-to-noon-m-th/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0843-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250730T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250730T103000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250611T122203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250611T122203Z
UID:10000157-1753867800-1753871400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Trails Together Hiking Club
DESCRIPTION:Trails Together – Sunfish Lake/Sally Manzara Interpretative Nature Center Hiking Club \nTrails Together is a new community hiking club! Join us at Sunfish Lake Park to explore the trails\, enjoy nature and make new friends along the way. \nWe will meet the last Wednesday of each month at 9:30 AM in the parking lot outside the Sally Manzara Interpretative Nature Center and beautiful Sunfish Lake Park for an approximately 60 minute/3 mile hike on various terrain and trails. \nBring a friend\, water and comfortable hiking shoes. All ages welcome. \nDates: \nJune 25th \nJuly 30th \nAugust 27th \nSeptember 25th \nTime:  \n9:30am for approximately 60 minutes/3 mile hike \nLocation:  \nSunfish Lake/Sally Manzara Interpretative Nature Center parking lot. \n**Trails Together is a community hiking club\, and not a program run through the Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center. We are promoting the club in order to help bring visitors to Sunfish Lake Park. If you have questions about the club\, please email Melissa at tmworm@comcast.net.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/trails-together-hiking-club-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Exhibits-Outside-Prairie-Rest-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250730T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250730T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250128T182022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250128T182022Z
UID:10000120-1753866000-1753887600@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Wonder Wednesday: Water Play
DESCRIPTION:For campers ages 5 to 7. Keep cool while learning about the importance of water through water games and activities. Wear or bring a swimsuit and towel. \nOur one-day\, fun-filled\, Wonder Wednesdays let kids explore the beautiful outdoor setting and learn about their surrounding environment. It is run by experienced instructors and the days include interpretive education\, games\, crafts to bring home\, free play and hikes. Cost: $100 per camper\, per session. To sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/WONDER WEDNESDAYS
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/wonder-wednesday-water-play/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0864-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250728T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250728T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250129T180529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250129T181317Z
UID:10000128-1753696800-1753702200@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Little Explorers: Water Wonders
DESCRIPTION:For campers ages 1 to 5\, $8 per child (0-1 are free). Dive into the world of pond life! We will explore the fish\, turtles\, frogs and other fascinating creatures that live in the lakes of Minnesota. \nLittle Explorer sessions are set up for families to come together and give the little ones their first experiences exploring nature. The first hour will be a structured activity based on the day’s theme. The last 30 minutes we encourage open play\, to give families an opportunity to explore on their own. Adults must stay with their children at all times. To sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/LITTLE EXPLORERS
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/little-explorers-water-wonders/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0151-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250721T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250724T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250128T191914Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T103913Z
UID:10000123-1753088400-1753358400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Sunfish Explorers: Bird Mania (9 a.m. to noon\, M-Th)
DESCRIPTION:This four day camp\, which meets from 9 a.m. to noon\, Monday through Thursday\, is for campers aged 7 to 10. In this session\, campers will learn about bird habitat\, food and different behaviors. We will learn a variety of birds and their songs. We will have a visit from a live raptor! \nOur weeklong camps offer small group camps that encourage and educate the youth of tomorrow about the beauty and importance of a healthy outdoors. Each camp will have special guests such as the Dodge Nature Center and their raptors and the 3M Wizards. Camps include hikes\, crafts\, games and of course a little education about the outdoors! Cost: $200 per child/per session. To register your child\, follow the link: https://square.link/SUNFISH EXPLORERS
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/sunfish-explorers-bird-mania-9-a-m-to-noon-m-th/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0452-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250715T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250716T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250129T183013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T162125Z
UID:10000132-1752570000-1752678000@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:2-Day Super Camp: Nature-Based Cardboard Camp (Tues. & Wed.\, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
DESCRIPTION:For campers aged 9 and up\, this camp meets Tuesday and Wednesday\, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come join us for a creative 2-day camp where kids get to create their own forest and creatures to match! First day will be planning and cutting and the second day with painting and display. \nThis summer we are piloting a 2-day version of our popular four day camps. Times are longer\, and camps all meet midweek.  2-Day camps also feature offerings for older campers. To register\, follow this link: https://square.link/SUPERCAMP
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/2-day-super-camp-nature-based-cardboard-camp-tues-wed-9-a-m-to-3-p-m/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0379-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250714T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250714T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250129T180126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250713T150017Z
UID:10000127-1752487200-1752492600@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Little Explorers: Pollinators
DESCRIPTION:(July 14th session is full) \nFor campers ages 1 to 5\, $8 per child (0-1 are free). In this session we will learn all about bees\, butterflies and all the different pollinators found in the park. \nLittle Explorer sessions are set up for families to come together and give the little ones their first experiences exploring nature. The first hour will be a structured activity based on the day’s theme. The last 30 minutes we encourage open play\, to give families an opportunity to explore on their own. Adults must stay with their children at all times. To sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/LITTLE EXPLORERS
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/little-explorers-pollinators/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0893-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250707T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250710T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250128T191342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T103523Z
UID:10000122-1751878800-1752148800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Sunfish Explorers: Bees & Butterflies (9 a.m. to noon\, M-Th)
DESCRIPTION:For campers ages 5 to 8\, this four-day camp meets from 9 a.m. to noon\, Monday through Thursday. Learn all about honeybees\, butterflies and all the other pollinators out there. Campers will experience beekeeping and learn how pollination occurs. \nOur weeklong camps offer small group camps that encourage and educate the youth of tomorrow about the beauty and importance of a healthy outdoors. Each camp will have special guests such as the Dodge Nature Center and their raptors and the 3M Wizards. Camps include hikes\, crafts\, games and of course a little education about the outdoors! Cost: $200 per child/per session. To register your child\, follow the link: https://square.link/SUNFISH EXPLORERS \n 
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/sunfish-explorers-bees-butterflies-9-a-m-to-noon-m-th/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0340-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250704T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250704T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250613T160831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T160831Z
UID:10000163-1751623200-1751637600@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Painting Workshop With Julie Schroeder
DESCRIPTION:We are honored to regularly host Julie Schroeder’s popular art workshops here at the SMINC. Topics vary\, as do prices. For more information\, or to register\, contact Julie directly at brushcolour@yahoo.com \nWebsite: Livingwatercolours.com \nPhone: 651-352-5695
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/painting-workshop-with-julie-schroeder-3/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/4582B1AD-283D-48E8-B5DB-417950296D5D-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250704
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250705
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250702T155522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250702T155522Z
UID:10000164-1751587200-1751673599@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Closed for the 4th
DESCRIPTION:The Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center will be closed for the 4th. Biking and walking trails will be open.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/closed-for-the-4th/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SMINC-Cover-Image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250702T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250702T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250128T181239Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T194303Z
UID:10000119-1751446800-1751468400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Wonder Wednesday: Earth Elements
DESCRIPTION:For campers ages 6 to 10. This session is all about the soil\, water and air. We will learn how soil provides nutrients and the need for clean water and air. Bring your favorite rocks and we will identify them! \nOur one-day\, fun-filled\, Wonder Wednesdays let kids explore the beautiful outdoor setting and learn about their surrounding environment. It is run by experienced instructors and the days include interpretive education\, games\, crafts to bring home\, free play and hikes. Cost: $100 per camper\, per session. To sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/WONDER WEDNESDAYS \n 
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/wonder-wednesday-earth-elements/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0185-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250625T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250625T103000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250603T144322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T144322Z
UID:10000156-1750843800-1750847400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Trails Together Hiking Club
DESCRIPTION:Trails Together is a new community hiking club! Join us at Sunfish Lake Park to explore the trails\, enjoy nature and make new friends along the way. \nWe will meet the last Wednesday of each month at 9:30 AM in the parking lot outside the Sally Manzara Interpretative Nature Center and beautiful Sunfish Lake Park for an approximately 60 minute/3 mile hike on various terrain and trails. \nBring a friend\, water and comfortable hiking shoes. All ages welcome. \nDates: \nJune 25th \nJuly 30th \nAugust 27th \nSeptember 25th \nTime:  \n9:30am for approximately 60 minutes/3 mile hike \nLocation:  \nSunfish Lake/Sally Manzara Interpretative Nature Center parking lot. \n**Trails Together is a community hiking club\, and not a program run through the Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center. We are promoting the club in order to help bring visitors to Sunfish Lake Park. If you have questions about the club\, please email Melissa at tmworm@comcast.net.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/trails-together-hiking-club/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Exhibits-Outside-Prairie-Rest-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250625T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250129T182521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250129T182521Z
UID:10000131-1750755600-1750863600@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:2-Day Super Camp: Advanced Outdoor Adventures (Tues. & Wed.\, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
DESCRIPTION:For campers 9 and older\, meeting Tuesday and Wednesday\, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join this popular session and learn how to use a compass and orienteering skills\, build a shelter\, knot tying and whittling. We will set up a camp and cook outdoors too! \nThis summer we are piloting a 2-day version of our popular four day camps. Times are longer\, and camps all meet midweek.  2-Day camps also feature offerings for older campers. To register\, follow this link: https://square.link/SUPERCAMP
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/2-day-super-camp-advanced-outdoor-adventures-tues-wed-9-a-m-to-3-p-m/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0059-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250623T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250623T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250129T175841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250623T144606Z
UID:10000126-1750672800-1750678200@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Little Explorers: Into the Woods - SOLD OUT!
DESCRIPTION:This Session is sold out! Register now to save your spot for the July 14 session! For campers ages 1 to 5\, $8 per child (0-1 are free). Come with us to explore the woods. Keep your eyes open because you never know what you may see! \nLittle Explorer sessions are set up for families to come together and give the little ones their first experiences exploring nature. The first hour will be a structured activity based on the day’s theme. The last 30 minutes we encourage open play\, to give families an opportunity to explore on their own. Adults must stay with their children at all times. To sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/LITTLE EXPLORERS
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/little-explorers-into-the-woods/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0009-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250622T123000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250516T161703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250622T120346Z
UID:10000153-1750586400-1750595400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Tree Trek Medicine Walk with Paul Red Elk - Cancelled
DESCRIPTION:Due to a family emergency\, the Tree Trek Medicine Walk scheduled for today has been cancelled. \nThe nature center tree trek Paul will talk about each tree medicine\, and the spirituality of each of them. Reservation is needed. Fee $65.00 Class size is limited. Register before 18th the fee is $60.00.  Contact: Paul traditionallakotamedicine@gmail.com
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/tree-trek-medicine-walk-with-paul-red-elk/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Spring-Tree-Trek-Pic-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250616T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250619T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250128T190715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250128T190715Z
UID:10000121-1750064400-1750334400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Sunfish Explorers: Outdoor Adventures (9 a.m. to noon\, M-Th)
DESCRIPTION:This four day camp meets from 9 a.m. to noon\, Monday through Thursday\, and is for campers ages 6 to 8. Join this popular session and learn how to use a compass\, build a shelter\, and whittle. We will set up a camp and cook outdoors too! \nOur weeklong camps offer small group camps that encourage and educate the youth of tomorrow about the beauty and importance of a healthy outdoors. Each camp will have special guests such as the Dodge Nature Center and their raptors and the 3M Wizards. Camps include hikes\, crafts\, games and of course a little education about the outdoors! Cost: $200 per child/per session. To register your child\, follow the link: https://square.link/SUNFISH EXPLORERS \n 
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/sunfish-explorers-outdoor-adventures-9-a-m-to-noon-m-th/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0114-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250614T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250614T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250612T120331Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250612T120331Z
UID:10000016-1749893400-1749902400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Regular Buckthorn Removal Days
DESCRIPTION:Buckthorn has a tendency to hide in the early summer\, so we will be focusing on other invasives for our June Buckthorn day\, like garlic mustard and burdock (before it gets too big). \nThanks to a grant through the Minnesota DNR and the Minnesota Legacy Fund\, we are working to get rid of all the buckthorn in Sunfish Lake Park. We contract with Stantec to clear large areas with heavy machinery\, but there are some areas that can’t be easily accessed by vehicles where volunteers can participate on foot by clearing invasives or planting native species. On the second Saturday of every month\, we get a crew together to go out and perform this vital work. We have the loppers and gloves\, bring your energy\, and we can offer you free fresh air and exercise. Work starts at 9:30\, and we can find something for all ages and abilities!
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/regular-buckthorn-removal-days-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Outside-e1715621594754.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250611T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250611T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250128T180058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250128T180058Z
UID:10000118-1749632400-1749654000@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Wonder Wednesday: Prairie Day
DESCRIPTION:For campers aged 7 to 10. Campers will learn the importance of the prairies and all the critters that depend on it. They will adventure through the tallgrass and along the way will learn about the important plants that make up a prairie. \nOur one-day\, fun-filled\, Wonder Wednesdays let kids explore the beautiful outdoor setting and learn about their surrounding environment. It is run by experienced instructors and the days include interpretive education\, games\, crafts to bring home\, free play and hikes. Cost: $100 per camper\, per session. To sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/WONDER WEDNESDAYS \n 
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/wonder-wednesday-prairie-day/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0905-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250609T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250609T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250129T175433Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250129T175433Z
UID:10000125-1749463200-1749468600@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Little Explorers: Flower Power
DESCRIPTION:For campers aged 1 to 5\, $8 per camper (0 to 1 are free). In this session we will explore the wildflowers found in the prairie and plant some to take home! \nLittle Explorer sessions are set up for families to come together and give the little ones their first experiences exploring nature. The first hour will be a structured activity based on the day’s theme. The last 30 minutes we encourage open play\, to give families an opportunity to explore on their own. Adults must stay with their children at all times. To sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/LITTLE EXPLORERS \n 
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/little-explorers-flower-power/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0888-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250607T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250607T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20241204T185014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T182253Z
UID:10000102-1749286800-1749301200@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Family Nature Day
DESCRIPTION:Join us on June 1st for the annual Sunfish Lake Park Family Fun Day celebration! We’ll have educational activities for kids and grown-ups\, from bees and other pollinators\, to the geology of Sunfish Lake Park\, and everything in-between. Take a stroll on our storybook trail and enjoy a beautiful summer Saturday with the family. Our friends from Carpenter Nature Center will be back with live animals (9:30 to 11:30). We’ll have coffee and lemonade on hand. This event is free and open to all!
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/family-nature-day/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250603T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250603T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250417T150145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T150145Z
UID:10000152-1748944800-1748959200@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Painting Workshop with Julie Schroeder
DESCRIPTION:We are honored to regularly host Julie Schroeder’s popular art workshops here at the SMINC. Topics vary\, as do prices. For more information\, or to register\, contact Julie directly at brushcolour@yahoo.com \nWebsite: Livingwatercolours.com \nPhone: 651-352-5695
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/painting-workshop-with-julie-schroeder-2/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250527T150916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T161218Z
UID:10000155-1748683800-1748691000@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Invasive Plant Removal in Sunfish Lake Park
DESCRIPTION:We’re looking for volunteers! The garlic mustard\, and other invasives\, have sprung up in the park\, and we want to get rid of them. We’ve cleared a lot of buckthorn over the last few years\, but our goal is to remove and manage as much as many of the invasive plant species in the park as we can\, so we’re going to focus on garlic mustard\, Canada thistle and burdock. Larissa Mottl\, from Stantec\, will be leading this event for us. She will help you identify the plant\, and show you the best way to get it out of the ground so that it doesn’t spread. This is pretty easy work\, especially compared to cutting buckthorn\, so you can bring the whole family. Come out\, help us clean up the park\, and go home with some knowledge about this invasive so you can clean up your own property!
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/garlic-mustard-pulling/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250417T144322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T144322Z
UID:10000149-1747486800-1747494000@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Spring Tree Trek Guided Tour
DESCRIPTION:A cooperative effort of the Washington County Master Gardeners Tree Squad and the Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center\, our Tree Trek follows a short path around the center\, then along a wheelchair accessible trail into the Park\, with information along the way about the various tree species that you will encounter. \nTake a guided tour with local master gardeners and learn all about native trees and tree life in Sunfish Lake Park\, with a special focus on what happens to those trees during the spring season. This is a free event and open to the public. For more about the SMINC’s Tree Trek\, check out the Tree Trek page on our website: https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/tree-trek/ 
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/spring-tree-trek-guided-tour/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20241018T154717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T194227Z
UID:10000098-1747476000-1747481400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Minnesota Rocks & Agates w/ Keith Zilinski
DESCRIPTION:This fun program will focus on those beautiful rocks we have all around us. Keith Zilinski is a New Jersey native who moved to the Twin Cities in 1977.  He has a minor in geology and has been a rockhound for 25 years.  He’s traveled to many states\, Canada\, Europe\, Africa and Australia in pursuit of his interest.  Recently\, he gave a presentation to the Scottish Gemmological Association in Edinburgh\, Scotland\, on the subject of Minnesota agates and Montana moss agates. Keith’s presentation will be about some of Minnesota’s most interesting rocks. Keith also will do a rock identification after the presentation.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/all-about-agates/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20251212T193906Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251212T194036Z
UID:10000015-1746869400-1746878400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Regular Buckthorn Removal Days (Cancelled for December)
DESCRIPTION:Thanks to a grant through the Minnesota DNR and the Minnesota Legacy Fund\, we are working to get rid of all the buckthorn in Sunfish Lake Park. We contract with Stantec to clear large areas with heavy machinery\, but there are some areas that can’t be easily accessed by vehicles where volunteers can participate on foot by clearing invasives or planting native species. On the second Saturday of every month\, we get a crew together to go out and perform this vital work. We have the loppers and gloves\, bring your energy\, and we can offer you free fresh air and exercise. Work starts at 9:30\, and we can find something for all ages and abilities!
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/regular-buckthorn-removal-days-4/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250506T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250506T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250326T154702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T154702Z
UID:10000137-1746554400-1746563400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Annual Spring Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:We are so excited to announce this year’s fundraiser dinner will be Tuesday\, May 6th at 6 p.m.\, at the Lake Elmo Inn Event Center.  Their chef has promised that this year’s dinner will be as delicious as it was last year. \nWe are extremely blessed and fortunate to have award-winning nature photographer\, Layne Kennedy\, as our guest speaker. Layne is nationally-recognized magazine photographer shooting assignments around the globe for publications like Smithsonian\, National Geographic Traveler\, National Geographic Adventure\, National Geographic Book Division\, Outside\, and Newsweek. His recent books include\, Paddle North-Canoeing The Boundary Waters/Quetico Wilderness and A Hard Water World-Ice Fishing And Why We Do It\, both by the prestigious Minnesota Historical Society Press. \nCost: $125 or $1\,200 for a table of 8 (includes two bottles of wine) \nTo reserve your seat\, click the “Fundraiser” tab at the top of the page\, or follow the link: https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/donate/
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/annual-spring-fundraiser/
LOCATION:Lake Elmo Inn Event Center\, 3712 Layton Ave.\, Lake Elmo\, MN\, 55042
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250426T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250426T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250331T151438Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T172223Z
UID:10000148-1745690400-1745695800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Backpacking for Beginners w/ Joel Seipel
DESCRIPTION:If you enjoy hiking and want to broaden your horizons beyond the car campground\, join \nus at Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center on April 26 th at 6 p.m. as Joel Seipel \nwill chat about how to carry everything you need for multiple days hiking. We will \ndiscuss the basics of backpacking and how to plan for an overnight trip\, including route \nselection\, food prep\, and gear outfitting. Whether you are brand new to the activity or \nwant to learn tips for extending your backcountry adventures\, this presentation is for \nyou! \nJoel grew up in Eau Galle\, WI and graduated from the University of St Thomas in St. \nPaul. He started backpacking during summer breaks in college and immediately fell in \nlove with how immersive the sport is. Hiking for several days can be intimidating at first\, \nbut he wants to help others experience how truly wonderful and rewarding it can be. \nMost recently he completed a through-hike of the John Muir Trail in 2023 and has 20 \nyears of experience hiking all over the United States.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/backpacking-for-beginners-w-joel-seipel/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250422T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250422T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250109T183922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T174048Z
UID:10000111-1745344800-1745350200@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Edible Native Plant Gardening w/ Tim Clemens
DESCRIPTION:Feed pollinators and yourself! Join Tim Clemens of Ironwood Foraging Co. for this presentation and Q&A and learn about edible native plants that you can add to your landscaping\, boulevard or pollinator plot. You’ll learn a few new recipes too! \nIronwood Foraging Co. was founded by Tim Clemens in 2017 to create profound connections between people\, plants\, and mushrooms. Tim is the Consulting Mycologist for Minnesota Regional Poison Center (Poison Control)\, Past President of the Minnesota Mycological Society\, and a Minnesota Master Naturalist. Tim holds a degree in Anthropology from the University of Minnesota and certificates in Nature Education from Cornell University. You can learn more at www.ironwoodforaging.com \nCost: $45; to sign up\, follow the link: https://square.link/Edible Native Plant
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/edible-native-plant-gardening-w-tim-clemens/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T123000
DTSTAMP:20260404T180143
CREATED:20250204T172209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T174335Z
UID:10000134-1745055000-1745065800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Earth Day Reseeding Celebration
DESCRIPTION:In the fall\, we welcome people to our annual Buckthorn Removal Festival\, where we try to get rid of as much of that invasive plant as we can. Those days\, along with our monthly buckthorn removal days\, and the grant funded work done by our partners\, have really had an impact on Sunfish Lake Park. There are a lot of buckthorn free areas\, and now it’s time to rebuild! \nThis Earth Day\, we are dedicating to reseeding those cleared areas with grasses and forbs\, native plants that can now reclaim those cleared areas. We’ll have the tools and seeds\, we’re just looking for some volunteers to help us sow the seeds for new growth in Sunfish Lake Park. \n 
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/earth-day-reseeding-celebration/
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END:VCALENDAR