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Naturalist Programs

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Enjoy naturalist led programs at parks and nature areas around the City of Bloomington! 

Programs will take place on select Saturdays and Sundays each month, and will feature fun, interactive experiences for all ages.  

  • Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free and require no registration.
  • Most programs will be drop-in, though some will have pre-determined participant maximums.  
  • Topics will include (but not be limited to):
    • Prairies and pollinators
    • Woodland plants and animals
    • Wetland and pond habitats
    • Animal tracks and signs
    • Apple cidering
    • Basic nature photography
    • Birding and bird calls
    • Creatures of the marsh
    • Insects and bugs in nature
    • Nature at night
    • Invasive plants & animals
    • Maple sugaring (making maple syrup)
    • Monarchs and more

Naturalist programs occur weather permitting. Check the status of events during inclement weather by calling 952-563-8878 or visiting the Parks and Recreation Facebook page.


Learn more about Parks and Rec’s new Naturalist Program
Learn more about Parks and Rec’s new Naturalist Program

Upcoming Programs

Dec
07
Sunday, December 7, 2025 - 1–3 p.m.
Make winter wreaths at the Pond House, Sunday, December 7, 1 - 3 p.m.
Dec
14
Sunday, December 14, 2025 - 1–2:30 p.m.
Experience campfire cooking at Pond Dakota Mission Park, Sunday, December 14, 1-2:30 p.m.
Dec
21
Sunday, December 21, 2025 - 1–2:30 p.m.
Snowshoe along the River Bottoms, December 21, 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Dec
28
Sunday, December 28, 2025 - 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Take a winter birding walk at Marsh Lake Park, December 28, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Jan
04
Sunday, January 4, 2026 - 1:30–3 p.m.
Learn about resilient winter animals at the Pond House, Sunday, January 4, 1:30 - 3 p.m.
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Registration and Fees

Most Naturalist Series programs are free and require no registration. Occasional programs require registration and/or a fee. That information will be clearly noted for those events. Registration and fee payment occurs online in our Webtrac system. 

If you do not already have an active profile, please visit the Online Registration page for more details and a step-by-step guide to creating a Webtrac account. 

Screenshot of Parks and Recreation online Webtrac activity registration platform
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Get email updates from the Parks and Recreation Department.

Contact Information

Contact Information

Naturalist Program Coordinator