
Online via Zoom
An account of a self-described “first legitimate” backpacking experience in summer 2026. Find out what setbacks were overcome before and during the trip, and learn about a beautiful location out west.
Presented by Kelly L.

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Online via Zoom
An account of a self-described “first legitimate” backpacking experience in summer 2026. Find out what setbacks were overcome before and during the trip, and learn about a beautiful location out west.
Presented by Kelly L.

In person at the Aspen Room at Westwood Hills Nature Center, 8300 W. Franklin Ave., St. Louis Park, MN 55426
Note that this meeting starts at 6:00 p.m.
First Tuesdays is about making connections! There is no presentation. Instead, there is a potluck at 6:00. At 7:00, you are invited to gather at tables about specific topics, or catch up with friends!
Schedule:
6:00 PM Potluck. Bring:
1. An item to share that is enough for about six people (don’t forget the serving utensil!). If ingredients are hard to identify, indicate them to help people with dietary restrictions. POTLUCK SIGN-UP HERE
2. Your own beverage, plate/bowl, and utensils.
7:00 PM Visit topic tables, 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. 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!

Online via Zoom
Join us for an exciting look at backcountry gear, including shelters, sleep systems, and backpacks—with a special focus on the great new additions to the Rovers gear locker! Discover equipment suited for backpacking, trekking, kayak camping, and bikepacking. To wrap things up, we will explore a range of backcountry adventures, from true backpacking, where you carry everything you need, to trips with varying levels of support and assistance. Get inspired, gear up, and find your next adventure!
Presented by Chris B. and Ruth R.

In person at the Aspen Room at Westwood Hills Nature Center, 8300 W. Franklin Ave., St. Louis Park, MN 55426
Note that this meeting starts at 6:00 p.m.
First Tuesdays is about making connections! There is no presentation. Instead, there is a potluck at 6:00. At 7:00, you are invited to gather at tables about specific topics, or catch up with friends!
Schedule:
6:00 PM Potluck. Bring:
1. An item to share that is enough for about six people (don’t forget the serving utensil!). If ingredients are hard to identify, indicate them to help people with dietary restrictions. POTLUCK SIGN-UP HERE
2. Your own beverage, plate/bowl, and utensils.
7:00 PM Visit topic tables, 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. 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!

Online via Zoom
In 2014, Congress directed the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to close the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock. This ended barge traffic at the next two locks and dams downstream: the Lower St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam and Lock and Dam No. 1. Now, the Corps wants to leave all three sites. The Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock will stay, but we have a choice whether the other two locks and dams remain or come out. John will provide the historical context for how we make this decision.
Presented by John A.
