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
Ney at Night
Saturday, October 29, 6-8pm
Explore the nighttime world! We’ll learn about nighttime critters and their adaptations. Once it gets dark we’ll look up to the sky to search for constellations. You won’t want to miss it!
$5 for members/$8 for non-members. Register here. Registration required for each program. Must register two days in advance.
Youth Programs
Youth Learning 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.
Homesteading: Tuesday, October 12, 9-11am
What was life like in the 1800s? Explore the historic Ney homestead, learn about pioneer life, and try your hand at a few pioneer activities!
Wintering Animals: Tuesday, November 9, 9-11am
How do animals hunker down in the cold? Find out as we talk about furs, do an experiment, and more!
$5 per student. 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, October 24th, 1-4pm
Sunday, November 28th, 1-4pm
$5 for members/$8 for non-members. Register here. Registration required for each program. Must register two days in advance.
Adult Programs
Lifelong Learner Series
Monthly on the second Thursday, noon-1:30 pm
Discover a new topic each month as we explore local wildlife, history, and conservation issues. Join us for lunch and conversation. Ages 18+.
Out of This World: Astronomy Exploration: Thursday, September 30th **7-8:30pm – (No Lunch provided) $5/member; $8/nonMember
Explore the nighttime world! We’ll look up to the stars to see constellations, planets, and more.
Time Travel to 1850: Homestead Tour: Thursday, October 21st
Learn about what life was like for pioneers in the 1850s as you tour the historic Ney homestead.
$15/member; $18/non-member. Registration required one week in advance.