Nature

The Nature Section invites you to join us as we explore the beauty and diversity of nature surrounding us. We have all found enjoyment and relaxation in nature as an important way of managing stress. 

We have opportunities to visit a variety of local areas and enjoy knowledgeable speakers about pertinent topics. If you wish to become a member of the Nature Section and receive notices about upcoming programs, please send an email message to Diane Schweizer at dianeschweizer@hotmail.com. 

The section will keep you informed of upcoming programs throughout the year. 

The UMWC newsletter and website umwc.umn.edu are excellent resources for updated information regarding events

At left below: 
On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, fifteen UMWC members climbed into a van in the rain for a 75-mile drive to CREX Meadows in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, with author, naturalist and wildlife photographer Stan Tekiela.  Luckily it stopped raining before we arrived.  We saw and heard the sandhill cranes, as well as swans. We had brought food and beverages with us, and enjoyed a fun meal while sandhill cranes flew over our heads to congregate for the night.

Co-Chairs :  Diane Schweizer and Linda Lorenz
Secretary/Treasurer: Carole Senty
Program Committee:  Jan Anderson,  Kathy Eggink, Katie Johnson, Mary Johnson, Linda Lorenz,  Diane Schweizer
Meetings:  Fourth Tuesday, unless otherwise noted**
Time: 10:30 a.m., unless ootherwise noted*
Dues:  Five dollars, but individual programs may involve an additional cost.

If you are interested in attending an event or program contact the coordinator or send an email to umwc@umn.edu requesting contact information.

2023-2024  Programs 

Sept. 26 -  Apples and Fall Picnic 
Location: Pine Tree Orchards 450 Apple Orchard Rd, WB Lake 
Presenter: Nancy Jacobson 
Coordinator: Mary Johnson 
Assisted by: Diane Schweizer 
Cost: None 

Oct. 24 -   CREX Meadows 
The Nature Section offered a wonderful educational opportunity Tuesday, October 24  from 2-8 pm.  Stan Tekiela, author and naturalist took members on a guided tour of CREX Meadows in Wisconsin to experience the fall migration of the Sandhill cranes.
Location: CREX Meadows (Van tour), 102 Crex Ave, Grantsburg, WI 
Presenter: Stan Tekiela 
Coordinator: Diane Schweizer 
Assisted by: Molly Kryzer and Karin Bauer 
Cost: To be determined. Approx. $50

(See photos at left)
 

Nov. 28  -  Minnesota Climate Change 
Location: Roseville Library, 2180 Hamline Ave N, Roseville 
Presenter: Kenneth Blumenfeld, Senior Climatologist, Minnesota State Climate Office 
Coordinator: Diane Schweizer 
Assisted by: Judie Prayfrock 
Cost: None 

Jan. 23 -   Lichens of the North Woods -> Being a Naturalist
Presenter: Joe Walewski, Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center Finland, MN Location: Zoom presentation
Coordinator: Linda Lorenz 
Cost: None 

Feb. 27  -  The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson
Location: Minneapolis Institute of Arts 2400 Third Ave S, Minneapolis
Presenter: Docent 
Coordinator: Linda Lorenz 
Assisted: by Katie Johnson 
Cost: $10 per person

April 23 -   Window Strikes 
Location: Location: Rondo Community Library – Rondo Flex Room,461 Dale Street N, St. Paul  (Note change in location from the Roseville Public Library.) 

The Rondo Community Library has underground parking that you enter from University Avenue just before Dale.

Presenter: Brittney Yohannes from the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center 
Coordinator: Linda Lorenz 
Assisted by: Jan Anderson 
Cost: $4 per person donation 

May 28- Foraging in MN State Parks 
Location: Fort Snelling State Park 
Presenter: Sarah Anderson, Interpretive Naturalist 
Coordinator: Kathy Eggink 
Assisted by: Jan Lageson 
Cost: Park day pass needed - $7 per car

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