2026

Online via Zoom.

In February 2024, Martin and a partner in adventure seized a rare chance to reach the Arrow Lake BWCA campsite in an area of the Powwow Trail that has become almost inaccessible due to flooding from beaver activity and thick overgrowth of jack pine after the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire. A planned eight-mile round trip to the Arrow Lake campsite became a 24-hour overnight winter hiking survival test.

Martin will present slides on this adventure, information on gear prep, the importance of checking gear at home and at the trailhead before starting a hike, and the importance of the right attitude when confronted with unexpected challenges.

Presented by Martin K., a lifelong advocate for hiking trails in the BWCA

THE FIRST TUESDAY POTLUCK ON FEBRUARY 3RD HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO MINNESOTA’S 2026 PRECINCT CAUCUSES.

Online via Zoom. Request the link here.

Join Voyageurs Conservancy’s Education & Dark Sky Specialist and NASA Solar System Ambassador to learn about the winter stars above and the stories they hold. This beginner-friendly program invites you to step outside, explore key winter constellations and deep sky wonders, and learn how we can protect our view of the cosmos from light pollution. No telescope needed – just a sense of curiosity and a warm coat!

Presented by Jesse G. of Voyageurs Conservancy

In-person Social at the Aspen Room at Westwood Hills Nature Center, 8300 W Franklin Ave, St. Louis Park, MN 55426

This meeting starts at 6:00 p.m.

First Tuesdays is about making connections! There is no presentation. Instead, we gather for a potluck at 6:00. At 7:00, we gather at tables to learn about specific topics, play games, or catch up with friends! Last month, there was lots of great conversation and connecting!

Schedule:

6:00 PM Potluck. Bring:

– An item to share that is enough for about 6-8 people (don’t forget the serving utensil!). If ingredients are hard to identify, indicate them to help people with dietary restrictions. While all desserts would be nummy, it’s not very healthy….Help us to have a variety of food by indicating what you will likely bring. You can always change your mind. POTLUCK SIGN-UP HERE

– Your own beverage, plate/bowl, and utensils.

7:00 PM Visit topic tables, play games, or chat with friends! Tables will be set up so you can learn more about various topics. There will always be a New Member table and a Game table (bring your favorite board or yard game!). Additional topics will depend on the interests of those attending. Anyone can host a table. Just ask the Presentations person for a sign.

Reconnect with old friends and meet new ones! Feel free to invite guests to join us!

P.S. Members are encouraged to post a hike at Westwood Hills before the potluck. Just post it to our website.