National Wildlife Week (March 9th through the 15th) is designed around teaching and connecting kids to the awesome wonders of wildlife. The 2015 theme for National Wildlife Week is Inspiring Americans to Protect Wildlife for Our Children’s Future.
IN MINNESOTA The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources protects and manages our wildlife. Visit the DNR Nongame Wildlife Program webpage to learn what you can do to protect, maintain, enhance, and restore native nongame wildlife resources for their intrinsic values, ecosystem functions, and long term benefits.
IN ANOKA COUNTY The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources oversees nearly twenty thousand acres (31 square miles) of land conserved within seven Wildlife Management Areas (WMA):
- Bearman WMA (Nowthen, 651-296-3450)
- Bethel WMA (Bethel, 651-296-3450)
- Carl E. Bonnell WMA (St. Francis, 651-296-3450)
- Robert and Marilyn Burman WMA (Oak Grove, 651-296-3450)
- Carlos Avery WMA (Area Office in Columbus, 651-296-5290)
- Gordie Mikkelson WMA (Linwood, 651-296-3450)
- Lamprey Pass WMA (Columbus, 651-296-3450)
For more information contact the DNR Information Center at (651) 296-6157 or email info.dnr@state.mn.us.
The Wildlife Science Center (5463 Broadway Ave NE, Columbus, MN 55025) provides important services including: research by professionals answering questions about wildlife management and endangered species; hands-on training for wildlife students; getting children excited about science education; and participating in national and international efforts to conserve our natural resources.
WSC provides two guided educational tours every Saturday at 11am and 1pm ($6 for adults, $4 for children 4-12, and free for 3 and under). Additional education programs include private programs/group tours; preschool programs; scout programs (WSC staff are certified badge counselors); wolf howl bonfires; and overnight programs. For more information contact the WSC at 651-464-3993 (or email wscinfo@wildlifesciencecenter.org).
*WSC is holding a Pet Clinic (Saturday, March 28, 2015 from 10am to 3pm) by Dr. Lori Ballinger, DVM of Healing Wheels, to get spring checkups for your dogs and cats for a special cost while enjoying the amazing WSC animals.
The Anoka Conservation District encourages property owners to branch out for wildlife through the tree and shrub sale. Click on the on-line ordering and payment webpage to see the variety of plants available or call ACD at (763) 434-2030.