Park Programs

Parks Programs for January and February 2022

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo

The following events take place at Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo and are subject to change.

Saturday, January 8th at 11am – Intro to Birding

This program will be an introductory class to the common birds who call Minnesota their home through the winter. Learn tips on how to spot birds, how to attract birds, and the tools to help identify birds. Binoculars and guidebooks will be provided but are limited. Meet in the nature center.

Saturday, January 15th at 10am – Otterly Outrageous

Learn fun facts about river otters that live along the Zumbro River in Oxbow Park. Park staff will share information about the resident Zollman Zoo river otters as they show off swimming and eating. Meet in front of the otter exhibit.

Saturday, January 22nd at 11am – Animals in Winter

Many animals in Minnesota need to grow really thick fur coats to survive the cold winter. Check out some of the fur pelts to see and feel how the animals can stay warm and active all winter long. Meet in the nature center.

Saturday, January 29th at 1pm – Introduction to Photography

This program is focused on teaching beginner skills for photography. Learn how to properly use settings on a camera with many different functions or bring your cell phone camera and learn the basics to framing up a scene for a great picture. Meet in the nature center.

Saturday, February 5th at 1pm - Books in the Woods

Are you a fan of outdoor based nonfiction? Let’s get together and share our favorite nature themed books. Meet in the nature center.

Saturday, February 12th All Day – Valentines to the Zollman Zoo

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Zollman Zoo is celebrating! This is a fundraising event to raise money for Friends of Oxbow, (non-profit organization) to help pay for the new nature center. Participants are encouraged to create valentines for the Zollman Zoo and if possible, donate to Friends of Oxbow. A drop box will be located in the nature center for valentines and donations. At 1pm zoo staff will give valentine treats to the animals. Other activities will be available throughout the day.

Saturday, February 19th at 1pm – Feed the Snakes

Come learn about the snakes that call Minnesota home. Learn about what they eat, where they live, and their adaptations. You may even get the opportunity to touch one! Meet in the nature center.

Saturday, February 26th at 1pm – Build a Bluebird Box

In this program you will build your own nest box, bring a hammer to assemble the pieces. Park staff will teach you the best placement in eastern bluebird habitat. Only 15 boxes ($15.00 each) are available, so call 328-7340 to reserve one soon! Ages 5 and up. Meet in the nature center.

*Masks required inside Oxbow Park/Olmsted County buildings.

Chester Woods Park

The following events take place at Chester Woods Park and are subject to change.

Saturday, January 8th at 10:00 a.m. – Homemade Suet

Our feathered friends are hungry!  And the colder and snowier it gets, the harder it is to find food!  Let’s give them a hand by making some homemade suet.  This program has limited space so call to make a reservation by January 6th!  507-328-7350

Saturday, January 22nd at 10:00 a.m. – Snowman Bird Feeders

This class is intended for pre-k through 1st grade children, so parents call 507-328-7350 by January 20th and get your kids signed up, as space is limited.  They will have a blast making their very own bird feeders.  Not only will are these feeders functional but they are super cute and will look amazing hanging outside your window!

Wednesday, February 16th at 5:30 p.m. – Full Moon Snowshoe

Meet park staff at the boat ramp for as we head out on a leisurely winter’s evening moonlit hike!  Must provide your own snowshoes!

Saturday, February 19th – 10th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Expo!

Event Hosted by Project MN Youth Outdoors and more information can be found on their Facebook page

Root River Park

The following events take place at Root River Park and are subject to change.

There are currently no December programs scheduled.