Hey, we have a few Junior Ranger events coming up through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area that you can sign up for. When you become a Junior Ranger, you get your own badge and get sworn in. The best part for parents? Junior Ranger Events are free. I'm so excited about the first one--we get to ride on a barge! I'm also excited about the second because we are going to have Ranger Abby with us and she is going to interpret what I say into Spanish! My first multi-lingual bird walk for kids.

September 10, 6:00 -- 9:00 p.m.– Barge Ride on Mississippi River

Junior Rangers, ages 10 and up, are invited by Aggregate Industries to explore the river by taking a ride on a "working barge" on the Mississippi River. National Park Rangers (like me) will be on board for the ride. The barge ride will begin at Aggregate Industries’ distribution facility in Minneapolis and will end at the Ford Lock and Dam. Bus transportation will be provided back to Aggregate Industries’ distribution facility at the end of the evening. Adult life vests will be provided, but children must bring their own. For more information and to register (it's free), please call Aggregate Industries at 651-683-0600.

Sept 18, 6--7 p.m.– Birding at Lilydale Regional Park
Come to the boat ramp at Lilydale Regional Park to discover all of the exciting birds that travel along the Mississippi River on the fall migration south. Follow Ranger Sharon as she guides you through the trees and along the water while you learn different bird calls. See map for the meeting location. English to Spanish interpretation will also be available for this event.