Minnesota Valley NWR Distance Learning Resources

Learn how to identify birds and how to watch for birds in you neighborhood with this packet and additional resources. Use a bird field guide to help you identify birds in your neighborhood and try solving the mysteries in the detective activity. Good luck gumshoe!

This packet includes directions for making leaf rubbings, creating a tree picture with twigs, writing an adopt-a-tree journal and a forest scavenger hunt.  Pair it with the Rapids Lake Forest Loop Trail Map for a fun adventure on the refuge or complete all the activities at home....

Explore the world of insects around you with this learning packet. Learn about the parts of an insect and dive into the life cycle of monarch butterflies. Then make a bug jar or even a bug net to capture and observe wild insects. 

This packet includes directions for making a nature journal, writing poetry, measuring wind speed, identifying clouds and a spring phenology scavenger hunt. Pair it with the Rapids Lake Forest Loop Trail Map for a fun adventure on the refuge or complete all the activities at home.  ...

Use this learning packet to discover life in a local pond. Look closely at the creatures you find and record them in your nature journal. Also included is a pond life scavenger hunt. Don't forget shoes that can get muddy, have fun exploring! You...

This packet explores the ecology of wetlands and what the smallest creatures can tell us about the health of the wetland ecosystem. Try the pond study Scoop It Up! activity at your local pond or at our Bass Ponds Trailhead in Bloomington, MN to see what lives in the water. Enjoy the scavenger...

This packet includes activities to learn how wetlands filter rain water and hold flood waters and how creatures are connected in the wetland habitat through food chains. Want to visit a wetland, try our Bass Ponds Trailhead in Bloomington, MN.

This packet provides resources to help you get started fishing. Learn to assemble your pole and tie your hook on the line, then watch the virtual fishing trip for tips on how to have a successful day at the water. Don’t forget to pack snacks, wear your sunscreen and have a good time, young...