Click here to view our Public Programs Cancellation Policy.
COVID19 Communications for Program Participants:
Please note due to COVID19 we are conducting our programs outside, weather permitting. Masks are not required at this time but social distancing is recommended for groups. This may change, please contact us for the most updated information or if you have questions or concerns. You can reach us by email or call us at 507-357-8580.
NOTE: Although we are hopeful that our upcoming public programs will be able to run, we understand that we are currently in uncertain times throughout this COVID-19 situation and may need to cancel or modify our programs at any given time. Because of this, we are temporarily modifying our cancellation policy. We will do our best to give at least a 48-hour notice prior to a program if it needs to be canceled or modified, however, at any point before the program, regardless of if we cancel the program or if you are unable to make it because of safety concerns or because of the modifications that we did, we will offer a 100% program refund. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any concerns or questions regarding our programming. Thanks!
All Ages
Youth Programs
Adult Programs
Programs for All Ages
Snowshoe Weaving Program
Tuesdays, January 25th, February 1st, and February 8th
Weave your own Ojibwa snowshoes under the guidance of an experienced instructor. Participants should plan to attend at least two sessions. Ages 12+ (12-15 year olds must be accompanied by an adult).
$175/member or $190/non-member (includes a year-long membership to Ney)
Register online by January 11th! Reservations required.
Candlelight Event
February 12th from 6-9pm
Enjoy a beautiful winter night snowshoeing or skiing by candlelight along our peaceful groomed trails. All ages. Free event, but if you are renting skis or snowshoes it is $3 for members, $5 for non-members.
No registration required, but snowshoes and skis are first-come, first-serve.
Parents Day Out – Members Only Event
February 20th from 12-3pm
This members-only event allows kids (5-12) to have fun playing and learning in the snow while giving parents up to 3 hours to ski, snowshoe, hike, read, or simply relax and enjoy some hot cocoa. Free to attend and rentals of skis and snowshoes are free from 12-3pm too! Not a member? Become one today to attend!
Maple Syrup Programs
Saturday, March 5th, 1-2pm
Sunday, March 6th, 1-2pm
Wednesday, March 16th, 5-6pm
Friday, March 25th, 5-6pm
How is maple syrup made? We will learn together in this hands-on class that includes a taste test of Ney maple syrup! All ages. $3 for members, $5 for non-members. Pre-registration required.
Youth Programs
Youth Naturalist Series
Monthly on the second Tuesday, 9-11 am
Whether you’re a distance learner, homeschooler, or anything in between, join us for a morning of exploration and investigation. Participants will be split into groups grade K-5 and 6-12.
Snowshoeing Basics: Tuesday, February 8th, 9-11am
Join us to learn the basics of snowshoeing, including the history and a hike to get used to using them! If there is no snow, we will reschedule the event.
Maple Syrup: Tuesday, March 8th, 9-11am
How is maple syrup made? We will learn together in this hands-on class that includes a taste test of Ney maple syrup!
$3 per member, $5 per non-member. Register here. Registration closes two days before program.
KidVenture
In this exploratory, youth-guided program, participants will decide as a group the activity of the day. With the support of our naturalists, youth will have the opportunity to explore the pond, head down into the ravine, track critters in the woods, and get up close and personal with prairie plants. Participants should dress for the weather and be prepared for a variety of activities (getting wet and muddy, for example). A snack will be provided; please let us know if your youth has any dietary restrictions. Please bring a water bottle and backpack if you have one. Ages 8-11.
This program is for youth only. We invite their adults to enjoy a walk around the nature center or drop off their child.
Sunday, January 23rd, 1-4pm
Sunday, February 27th, 1-4pm
$5 for members/$8 for non-members. Register here. Registration required for each program. Must register two days in advance.
2022 Summer Camps – Registration open!
Adult Programs
Lifelong Learner Series
Discover a new topic each month as we explore local wildlife, history, and conservation issues. Join us for lunch and conversation. Ages 18+.
Bird Intelligence: Thursday, January 20th
Have you ever wondered what’s going through a bird’s head while it’s sitting at your bird feeder? What are the birds saying to each other with their songs and calls? It might seem like birds don’t have much to think about but this couldn’t be further from the truth! Join us as we enjoy a delicious meal and gain an even deeper appreciation for these truly incredible animals.
Terrarium Design: Thursday, February 17th
Don’t have a lot of room for plants? Or have plenty of room and are looking to decorate your home in a new way? Join us as we learn how terrariums work, and design your own to take home. Cost includes lunch and materials. ($20/member, $25/non-member)
$15/member; $18/non-member. Registration required one week in advance.
Click here to view our Public Programs Cancellation Policy.