Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center

09/30/2026

Congratulations on your retirement, Alan! 🎉

After an incredible 31 years at Carpenter Nature Center, Alan Maloney is retiring!

Over the past three decades, Alan has worn many hats at CNC, serving as an Interpretive Naturalist, Animal Care Coordinator, Volunteer Coordinator, Rentals Coordinator, and more. Most importantly, he has helped tens of thousands of children discover the wonders of the natural world. His enthusiasm, humor, and ability to connect with kids have made him a favorite naturalist for so many.

Please join us in congratulating Alan on an amazing 31 years of service and wishing him all the best in his well-earned retirement!

09/28/2026

CNC’s Apple Shack is a great place to stock up on everything you need for fall 🍁🍂

In addition to apples, CNC also sells a variety of other delicious products, including canned goods, chocolate-covered cherries, pumpkins, squash, and treats from some of our local favorites!

You can find local honey from Bonita Acres. You can also find pies, applesauce, and apple rings made from CNC apples by in Prescott, WI. 🐝🍎

Visit the Apple Shack daily from 9 AM to 5 PM and mark your calendars for Apple Fest on Oct 10th & 11th.

09/26/2026

✨ Annual Migratory Bird Count & Hawk Watch This Sunday! ✨

Fall migration is underway! Each year, thousands of raptors, songbirds, gulls, and other birds pass through the St. Croix Valley on their journey south to wintering grounds.

Join Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center and the The Minnesota Ornithologists' Union - MOU this Sunday, September 27, from 8:00 AM–2:00 PM at Carpenter's Minnesota Campus (12805 St. Croix Trail S., Hastings, MN). Stop by to learn about migration, ask questions, help spot passing birds, and experience one of fall’s most exciting natural spectacles.

🔭 Watch for migrating raptors, songbirds, gulls, and more
🦅 Follow the live count totals and try your hand at spotting birds overhead
👨‍👩‍👧 Free and open to birders of all ages and experience levels
⏰ Drop in anytime or stay for the whole day!

09/24/2026

Bidding is officially OPEN for Nature's Canvas Tiny Art Show!

Browse nearly 100 unique pieces of tiny artwork inspired by Wisconsin's natural world and place your bids on your favorites. Every bid supports the Wisconsin Master Naturalist Program while giving you the chance to take home a one-of-a-kind work of art.

View the gallery and start bidding today: https://go.wisc.edu/NaturesCanvas

Bidding closes at 8 p.m. on October 2, so don't wait too long to claim your favorite piece!

09/22/2026

Out with the old and in with the new!

Construction crews have started working on the north loop trail. Until the work is finished, the north loop trail will be closed for several weeks.

Instead, enjoy the newly finished self-guided trail. The self-guided trail takes you to some of the best spots at CNC, including the river overlook, ravine lookout, and the apple shack!

09/22/2026

Thank you Marsden Services and American Security for your incredible support through the years! We love having you at the Autumn in the Valley Gala each fall.

09/20/2026

It's a great day for birding at CNC. 🦅

A break in the rain and a good tailwind have birds heading south. Many groups, or kettles, of migrating raptors have been spotted today, including the one shown here with 200+ Broad-winged Hawks!

CNC volunteers spotted more than 8,000 individuals across 72 species, including 2,000 bluejays, more than 2,000 Broad-winged Hawks, a Swainson's Hawk, and 500 Franklin's Gulls.

Want to learn to spot raptors like a pro? Join CNC and the The Minnesota Ornithologists' Union - MOU this Sunday, September 27, for the annual Hawk Watch.
https://tinyurl.com/HawkWatch2026

09/18/2026

⏰ Last day for registration is September 18! Open to all adults interested in nature-based volunteerism. 🌱
Learn more at: https://wimasternaturalist.org/get-involved/stay-connected/2026-summit/

⏰ Last chance to register!

Registration for the 2026 Summit for Natural Resources Volunteers closes September 18.

Don't miss your opportunity to: 🌳 Explore the St. Croix Valley 🦉 Observe owl banding 🦇 Learn about bat conservation 🐦 Experience bird research in action 💧 Dive into water stewardship 🤝 Connect with conservation volunteers 🎤 Hear keynote speaker Sandy Spieler

No walk-in registrations will be accepted.

Secure your spot today: https://wimasternaturalist.org/get-involved/stay-connected/2026-summit/

09/11/2026

Carpenter Nature Center’s Online Auction Fundraiser is OPEN for bidding! Browse the auction and place your bids at https://cncgala26.auctria.events

Treat yourself or get a head start on your holiday shopping while supporting Carpenter Nature Center. With sports tickets and memorabilia, gift certificates to local restaurants and attractions, artwork, unique experiences, themed packages, and more, there’s something for just about everyone on your list.

The auction is open through Sunday, September 13 at 7:30 p.m. as a part of the Autumn in the Valley Gala. You can participate whether you’re attending the Gala in person or bidding from home!

All proceeds help support Carpenter Nature Center’s environmental education, habitat conservation, and welcoming outdoor experiences for our community.