Please call 651-437-4359 to register for the below programs or contact the Program Director
Ongoing programs
Preschool Story Times 10:00 – 11:00 am on the following Fridays
September 17 – Apples and Pumpkins
October 29 – Costumes and Critters
November 19 – Turkey Time
December 3 – Winter Birds
Carpenter Nature Center’s Preschool Story Times are designed to introduce young children, ages 2 through 5 (with a parent or guardian), to nature in a fun and safe environment. The fun-filled hour of activities includes a nature story, an art or craft project, exploring the outdoors, and observing live animals. Please call 651-437-4359 to register. Program fee: $5.00 or $3.00 for “Friends of CNC;” no charge for accompanying adult.
CNC Story Time programs have been partially funded through support from Target
Bird Banding 9:00 am – noon on the following Fridays
September 24, October 22, November 26, December 17
Have you ever wondered what bird banding is all about? This is your chance to see songbirds up close and to watch the experts band birds at Carpenter Nature Center. Bird banding records can help us learn how long the birds live, where they travel, when and where they migrate and many other interesting facts. Carpenter Nature Center has been banding birds for over 26 years and still meets weekly to capture, record, band and release songbirds. Donations of sunflower bird seed or suet will be greatly appreciated in lieu of a program fee.
Special Monthly programs
Sunday September 12th
5:00—9:00 p.m.
Autumn in the Valley Gala
Hosted by Carpenter Nature Center’s Board of Directors this wonderful, fun event raises almost 5% of our annual operating income. Tickets are $80 per person and sponsorship opportunities are available. To receive an invitation, to inquire about sponsorships, donating an auction item or wine, please contact Jennifer@CarpenterNatureCenter.org or by phone: 651-437-4359
Saturday September 25th
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fall Raptor Release
Presented in Partnership with The Raptor Center of the University of Minnesota.
Rehabilitated birds of prey will be released at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Visitors can learn about and photograph eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls. As always there will be many activities for children and you may bring empty printer cartridges to recycle for the raptors.
Saturday & Sunday, October 9 & 10 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Apple Fest
October is the perfect time for a family visit to the St. Croix Valley. The fall colors are peaking and local apple orchards celebrate the bounty of the season by hosting their Apple Fests. At Carpenter Nature Center Apple Fest means that visitors get a chance to take a hay wagon ride through the orchard to learn about our IPM method of growing fruit that is healthier for you and the planet. Other highlights include fresh-pressed apple cider and a splendid array of bake sale goodies. If you don’t know the difference between a Connell Red and a Honey Gold, you can sample many of the 14 varieties of apples grown at Carpenter Nature Center.
