Upcoming Events
Whether it's a sandhill crane tour, moonlight ski, wildflower tour, or a kids photography workshop there's something for everyone at the refuge.
See the Refuge Calendar for more detail on Refuge-hosted events (FREE and open to the public!)
In addition to supporting refuge events, the Friends of Sherburne hosts a variety of our own events.
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Friends' History
In 2018 the Friends organization celebrated its 25th anniversary!
Since our founding in 1993, the Friends have been working to develop an appreciation for and the conservation of the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge.
From our early days of supporting Environmental Education Days and providing visitor enhancements on Wildlife Drive to the opening of the Oak Savanna Learning Center, we’ve remained focused on providing nature education for youth and adults.
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1965
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is established through vision of local sportsmen.
1993
Friends of Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is founded.
1998-1999
Environmental Education student curriculum (developed at the Refuge) attracts national attention. A need for a Learning Center is identified.
2013-2014
USFWS approves construction; ground is broken for the Oak Savanna Learning Center.
2016
The Friends' "Be Wild" fundraising furnishes the Learning center. The opening of the Oak Savanna Learning Center is celebrated.
2017
Over 2,100 student visitors and nearly 6,000 total visitors pass through the doors of the Oak Savanna Learning Center.
2019-2023
The call for an outdoor ampitheater to support refuge events and outdoor education is answered with the Friends' "Go Wild" fundraising campaign.
2024
The amphitheater is completed and turned over to the refuge. It is initiated both with a Native American ceremony and a formal ribbon cutting. It is an important part of the fall Wildlife Festival.
2025
The Friends of Sherburne NWR celebrates it's 35th anniversary.
Photo by: Randy Baum