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
February 10 – Winter Fun
March 9 – Feathered Friends
April 20 – Earth Day Celebration
May 4 – Hop into Spring
June 15 – Diggin in the Dirt
July – 13 – Creepy Crawlers
August 3 – Caterpillars and Butterflies
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 pre-register so we know you’re coming. 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
February 24, March 23, April 27, May 25
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
February 10, 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Precious Waters Film and Discussion
Anyone that has been to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northern Minnesota knows what a pristine wilderness it is and how fortunate we are to have this beautiful gem in Minnesota. The “Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness” is an organization that is continually striving to preserve the Boundary Waters and has made a film called “Precious Waters” to look at the sulfide mining controversy. The short film (27 minutes) will provide an update on the mining exploration in northeastern Minnesota and takes a look at how sulfide mining will affect Minnesota’s lakes and rivers as well as the economy. There will be a short discussion after the movie. This is a free event but donations will gladly be accepted. This event will take place in the Visitor Center, call 651-437-4359 to let us know you’re coming.
March 11 & 18 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Making Maple Syrup
Welcome the coming of spring by joining the CNC staff in the tradition of making maple syrup. We’ll hike to the “sugarbush” to tap maple trees, witness the process of turning sap into syrup and sample the finished product. This program will start indoors, but be prepared to hike in the spring snow and mud. These programs usually fill quickly so call 651-437-4359 to make your reservation for the day you want. Program fee: $6.00 per person or $4.00 for “Friends of CNC” and children under 10
March 25 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Scout Day – Making Maple Syrup
Join other Scouts (boys and girls) as we hike to the “sugarbush” to tap maple trees and collect the sap. See how the sap is turned into maple syrup and sample the finished product. This program will start indoors, but be prepared to hike in the spring snow and mud. Call 651-437-4359 to make your reservation. Program fee: $6.00 per person or $4.00 for “Friends of CNC”
April 22 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Organic Gardening
Spend some time on Earth Day learning how to build a sustainable future thru organic gardening, mindful eating and helping ourselves and others get connected to our food sources. Instructor Amy Field will show how you can make fast and easy container gardens and a simple raised bed. Heirloom seeds and biodegradable pots will be furnished to get you started on your own garden. If you don’t have space for a large garden, learn how you can get involved with Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) and reap the benefits of locally grown, healthy fruits and vegetables. Amy Field grows all her vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers for her catering business, Sunny Day Catering in River Falls, Wisconsin. While living in Hawaii Amy worked as a chef for two of Hawaii’s top spas and has been a private chef for celebrities Bette Midler, Ellen DeGeneres, Jane Fonda and others. This will be a special treat you won’t want to miss so call 651-437-4359 to reserve your spot. Program fee: $15.00 per person or $10.00 for “Friends of CNC”
April 27 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Home School: Wetlands & Water Quality
Carpenter Nature Center’s Home School Programs are created to offer students in home schools an opportunity to meet other children, take part in environmental education programs, and enjoy the outdoors. Students ages 5 – 9 yrs. will explore the diversity of life in the wetland and learn about the important role that wetlands play in our environment. Older students (ages 10 yrs. and up) will use monitoring equipment to measure abiotic and biotic factors in CNC’s wetland to determine the water quality. Please dress appropriately for the weather and to get wet feet; old shoes and something dry to change into after class would be a good choice. Call ahead at 651-437-4359 to make a reservation. Program fee: $6.00 per student or $4.00 for “Friends of CNC”
