At Ney Nature Center, we’re all about growing, learning, and working together to create one-of-a-kind experiences for our community. Every year, we are so excited for the Minnesota Naturalist Association (MNA) Conference—a big event that brings together environmental educators, naturalists, and outdoor lovers from all over Minnesota. It’s a place to learn, connect, and get inspired. Over the years, our staff has been heavily involved, not just attending but also stepping up as Workshop Coordinator, Conference Coordinator, and even President!
The conference is always a treasure trove of knowledge, with sessions led by local experts diving into Minnesota’s biodiversity. Topics range from climate change and wildlife tracking to indigenous knowledge and how to engage diverse audiences. Plus, there are hands-on workshops where you can try out bird banding, nature journaling, and habitat restoration. We always come back with more ideas than we can count for the nature center.
This year’s conference, held November 15-17 at Deep Portage Learning Center in Hackensack, MN, didn’t disappoint. With over 6,300 acres of stunning landscapes—glacial hills, lakes, rivers, and bogs—it was the perfect spot. If you haven’t visited, add it to your list!
Our crew joined more than 130 other outdoor educators for the weekend, soaking up the sense of community and shared passion. Here are some of our favorite sessions:
- Eva: How to do a Raptor Program without Giving Folks the Bird by Brett Sieberer and Pam Welisevich
- Liz: Summer Camp for All: Amazing Parks Adventure Camp by Katie Frías
- Madi: Canids 101: Ecology of Minnesota’s Wild Dogs by Griffin Bray
- Sara: Culturally Responsive Teaching in Nature by Josh Leonard, Amanda Herrera-Gundale, and Oakley Biesanz
- Sam, and Beth: TBD—some folks weren’t in the office when this was written. Sorry, team!
Other highlights? Networking with amazing people, a cozy bonfire sing-along, hiking to the bog to check out beaver dams and carnivorous plants, and spotting so many porcupines.
Spending a weekend surrounded by nature and learning reminds us why we do what we do: to share our love for the outdoors and inspire others to protect it. Huge thanks to the Minnesota Naturalist Association for putting on such a fantastic event. We’re already looking forward to next year!