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Outdoor naturalist programs focus on enjoying spring’s start

Headwaters of Mississippi River with sign reading "Here 1475 ft above the ocean the Mighty Mississippi begins to flow on its winding way 2552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico"
Contributed
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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
The headwaters of the Mississippi River can be found at Itasca State Park.

“The earth is awakening from its winter sleep,” a news release stated. “Join the park naturalist as we walk around the Mississippi Headwaters area looking at nature’s signs that spring is returning. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars.”

ITASCA STATE PARK — Two programs scheduled this week at Itasca State Park draw attention to the change of seasons.

On Friday, March 24, the park hosts Kid’s Science Discovery: Animals of the Old Growth Forest. The program will be 1:30-2:15 p.m. and participants should meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center. Kids will investigate the old growth pine forest and the animals living there.

Science Discovery programs are geared for students looking to take the classroom outside. This program will include going outdoors if weather allows, so plan for the weather. Dress in layers and wear snow boots.

Registration for this program is required. For more information or to register, email naturalist Sandra at Sandra.d.lichter@state.mn.us or call 218-699-7252.

Saturday, the park will host an outdoor hike around the Mississippi Headwaters area. The hike will be 11 a.m.-noon and participants should meet under the porch at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center.

Hikers may listen for the bugling of returning Trumpeter Swans and look for swelling of tree buds.

“The earth is awakening from its winter sleep,” a news release stated. “Join the park naturalist as we walk around the Mississippi Headwaters area looking at nature’s signs that spring is returning. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars.”

Spring conditions can be snowy, slushy or muddy. Participants will hike in boots and are asked to dress warmly and come prepared for the weather conditions.