As a public health precaution, the Wildlife Drive, Oak Savanna Learning Center and both trailhead restrooms are temporarily closed for the safety of visitors and staff. People are encouraged to plan accordingly to avoid needing a restroom during a visit.
To ensure the safety of our visitors, volunteers and employees, Refuge Headquarters is closed to the public starting Thursday, March 19 until further notice. Programs and events are postponed. Click here for Refuge COVID-19 info.
The Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive is open as are all hiking trails; the road is muddy in patches but as of Friday March 27 passable. Be sure to stay on the drive and trails as most areas are now under Sanctuary until September 1.
Friends of Sherburne NWR events are being rescheduled. "Rhythm & Blues" will be held June 27, same venue and band. The new date for "Friends Read" is yet to be determined. More details on the Upcoming Events page.
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There is a new Wildlife Viewing Blind on the Black Bear Loop (the outer most hiking trail at Oak Savanna Learning Center). The trail awaits a fresh coat of crushed gravel so watch your step. First come, first served. Please close the window and door when you leave.
Photo by Dean Kleinhans
A New Way
to Give!
The Bank of Elk River is the nation’s first bank to give customers an easy way to donate earned interest to local charities, and ours is one of those charities!
If you're a Bank of Elk River customer, click here to see how you can donate interest to the Friends through Interest for Others!
Prairie Trail Vignette
Robin DeLong, Roving Interpreter on the Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive, highlights the spring Lupine bloom along the Refuge's Prairie Trail. Each year, the bloom occurs beginning about the end of May, depending upon spring weather conditions.
Photo by Sheila Skogen
Photo by: Bruce Ellingson
Save the Date
See the Upcoming Events Page or this flyer for information on the April 4th fundraiser.
"On any given visit, nature surprises and delights me."
- Dean Kleinhans, volunteer
Sign up for Prairie Insider - Friends' e-newsletter!
Photo by: Bruce Ellingson