Monarch tagging
Minneopa State Park
1-2 p.m. Friday
Monarchs, which migrate from Minnesota to Mexico, have declined in numbers over the past decade. Learn how tagging monarchs and tracking their migration patterns can provide information about their biology and conservation. (1-507-384-8890, mndnr.gov)
Wood Wide Web
Sibley State Park
4-5 p.m. Friday
If trees could talk, what would they say? Eavesdrop on the underground "conversations" of trees and catch a rare glimpse of the mysterious social network known as the Wood Wide Web. (1-320-354-2055, mndnr.gov)
Photos in the wild
William O'Brien State Park
2-3 p.m. Saturday
Learn some tips and tricks for nature photography. Bring a camera (smartphone works, too). There also are a limited number of cameras to check out. Meet inside the visitor center. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)
Archery pointers
Fort Snelling State Park
10 a.m.-noon Saturday and 1-3 p.m. Sunday
Learn how to use a compound bow. The program is for ages 8 and older. All equipment is provided. Stop by the beach area anytime during the program. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov).
I Can Paddle! program
Lake Maria State Park
10 a.m.-noon Sunday
Learn the basics of canoeing on lakes. Cost is $25 (for three people per canoe). Must be 5 or older. Reservations required; visit mndnr.gov/reservations or call 1-866-857-2757.
Raptors in the yard
Lowry Nature Center
2-4 p.m. Sunday
Meet captive raptors. Drop in anytime. This program is free. (threeriversparks.org)
Bird banding
Lowry Nature Center
9 a.m.–noon Saturday
Wild songbirds will be trapped, studied, banded and released. (763-694-7650, threeriversparks.org)
Family kayaking
9-11 a.m. Saturday
Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park
Learn kayaking safety and proper paddling. Equipment provided. Cost is $20. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. This program is for ages 8 and older. (763-694-7777, threeriversparks.org)
Eclipse parties
Various state parks
Monday
A total solar eclipse is happening Monday across the United States. (The path of totality courses across the country, but Minnesota will see a partial eclipse). Special glasses to safely view it will be provided. Go online to see details about viewing events at Afton, Itasca, Sibley and other state parks. (mndnr.gov)
