Minnesota Humanities Center

Bloomington - We Are Water MN
2025-11-22 - 2026-02-01 | Bloomington Education and Visitor Center, 3815 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN, 55425, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
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Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
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Byron - We Are Water MN
2026-02-24 - 2026-04-20 | Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, 5731 County Rd 105 NW, Byron, MN, 55920, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
We Are Water MN is thrilled to make its 2026 debut at our very first zoo host site! Please visit the exhibit at the newly-renovated Zollman Zoo & Nature Center, where you can learn more about water alongside the many animals that call it home. The Dr. Paul E. Zollman Zoo houses over 30 species of wild animals native to Minnesota, so be sure to leave time for a visit to the otters and eagles! This stop on our We Are Water MN is also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the unique Karst Geology of the Olmstead County area–don’t miss out on the chance to learn more about this unique geography!
Want to make a day of out of your visit to the exhibit? Oxbow Park offers almost any outdoor enthusiast a chance to pursue their favorite activity such as hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, and more.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Byron - MN DNR 59 Demonstration and Program on Invasive Species
2026-04-12 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, 5731 County Rd 105 NW, Byron, MN, 55920, United States
Learn from Conservation Officer Schlag and Canine Officer Trapper about the duties of protecting Minnesota’s natural resources. Watch a demonstration of the canine skills Trapper has been trained to do, including how he finds invasive zebra mussels!
This event is free and open to all ages. Meet in the Nature Center.
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is funded by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.

Byron - Feed the Otters and Photos with Ellie the Otter
2026-04-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, 5731 County Rd 105 NW, Byron, MN, 55920, United States
North American River Otters are a curious animal with many adaptations for hunting on land and fishing in the water. Come on out to learn about them, watch a staff member feed out live minnows, and take a picture with our special guest, Ellie the Otter, who is featured in our audio stories in the We Are Water MN exhibit.
This event is free to the public and for all ages.
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is funded by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.

Byron - Meet a Bald Eagle
2026-04-19 10:00 - 13:00 | Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, 5731 County Rd 105 NW, Byron, MN, 55920, United States
This is the final event for the We Are Water MN hosting in Byron. Please join the National Eagle Center at Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo for three live bald eagle programs: 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. Each program will last approximately 45 minutes and guests will learn about bald eagles, the challenges they face, and how we can help!
This event is free to the public and open to all ages. Meet in the Nature Center.
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is funded by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.

St. Paul - We Are Water MN
2026-04-23 - 2026-06-14 | Capitol Region Watershed District, 595 Aldine St, St. Paul, MN, 55104, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Capitol Region Watershed District
Stop two on the We Are Water MN 2026 tour brings us to the Midway neighborhood of Saint Paul, where the exhibit is hosted by Capitol Region Watershed District (CRWD). CRWD is a local unit of government dedicated to protecting, managing and improving the water resources of the District, which includes parts of Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Maplewood, Roseville and Saint Paul. All the water in this district eventually flows to the Mississippi River, and being hosted at CRWD will offer a chance for visitors to learn more about ways their actions directly impact water in their local community. This hosting will also offer a unique opportunity to spend time in the CRWD offices, which use green building principles, including stormwater management and energy-saving practices, to conserve natural resources. The grounds include a watershed learning center, a pocket park, and interactive features designed to draw in neighbors and visitors.
Fun fact: Watershed Districts are unique parts of government, because they aren’t defined by political boundaries. Instead, they follow the water! Water flows naturally, so these districts cross city/county lines to provide holistic, science-based water management for areas draining to a common lake, stream, or river.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

St. Paul – We Are Water MN Opening Reception at Capitol Region Watershed District
2026-04-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Capitol Region Watershed District, 595 Aldine St, St. Paul, MN, 55104, United States
Capitol Region Watershed District (CRWD) invites you to the We Are Water MN Reception at our Watershed Learning Center. The We Are Water MN exhibit includes personal stories from 15 community members about their connection to water. We welcome our community storytellers and their families to experience their water stories in the exhibit for the first time and meet each other.
We are also debuting Confluence of Care, a vibrant new mural on our rainwater cistern created by artist Christina Vang. Christina will share her inspiration and process.
Brief remarks by CRWD and Christina Vang, followed by an introduction of our community storytellers, will begin at 5:30 PM.
Light appetizers will be provided.
We Are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is funded by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Registration
This event is free, however registration with the Capitol Region Watershed District is required.
Register Now

St. Paul - Sidewalk Poetry Workshop
2026-05-09 13:00 - 16:00 | Capitol Region Watershed District, 595 Aldine St, St. Paul, MN, 55104, United States
Join We Are Water MN and Capitol Region Watershed District for a Sidewalk Poetry Workshop in partnership with Public Art Saint Paul.
Attendees will be introduced to the 2026 Sidewalk Poetry Contest and invited to submit their own work to the juried pool of poetry. The contest is open to all residents of Saint Paul.
The theme of this year’s contest is Water, to correspond with the We Are Water MN exhibit. The contest will accept poems in six languages: Dakota, Hmong, Karen, Somali, Spanish, and English, to honor and recognize the remarkable cultures that make Saint Paul such a special capital city.
This event is part of the We Are Water MN exhibit at Capitol Region Watershed District’s Watershed Learning Center from April 23 to June 14, 2026.
Registration
This event is free, however registration is required.
Registration Questions: Contact the Capitol Region Watershed District
Register Now

St. Paul - Open House and Ice Cream Social
2026-05-27 16:00 - 19:00 | Capitol Region Watershed District, 595 Aldine St, St. Paul, MN, 55104, United States
Join We Are Water MN and Capitol Region Watershed District (CRWD) for staff-led demonstrations, art-making, and free ice cream!
Visitors are invited to

Explore the We Are Water MN exhibit
Experience short, family-friendly demonstrations of CRWD’s work
Tour CRWD’s LEED Gold-certified building
Make and take-home custom art in partnership with two artists from Springboard for the Arts’ Ready-go program: Custom screen printing with Jessica Lopez Lyman from La Luchadora and Water-themed metal casting with Sara Hanson from WOW Mobile Metal Lab.

This event is part of the We Are Water MN exhibit at Capitol Region Watershed District’s Watershed Learning Center from April 23 to June 14, 2026.
Registration
This event is free, however registration is required.
Registration Questions: Contact the Capitol Region Watershed District
Register Now

St. Paul - Art + Water Workshop: Aquasonos – Community Listening with Dameun Strange
2026-06-06 18:00 - 21:00 | Capitol Region Watershed District, 595 Aldine St, St. Paul, MN, 55104, United States
Listening is a daily act that is both solo and collaborative: a conversation between family members over breakfast, taking in a lesson at school, a podcast that plays in your ears as you wait for the bus.
What happens when we listen, intentionally, together?
At this evening event, you are invited to listen together to the sounds of our watershed, from the ancient history of Como Lake to the birds of Frogtown Farm. Sound scores by musician and composer Dameun Strange will be installed as listening environments in CRWD’s building and outdoor gardens. Tune in to three immersive works, including a new piece composed of field recordings gathered at the previous Aquasonos workshop on April 25. Read an interview with Dameun Strange about his work, AquaSonos: An Interview with Dameun Strange.
About the Artist
Dameun Strange is an acclaimed sound artist, multi-instrumentalist, and award-winning composer. His body of work encompasses conceptual electronic and improvised electro-acoustic compositions that delve into the narratives and themes of the African diaspora, frequently incorporating surrealist and Afrofuturist aesthetics. Through sound and poetry, Strange’s artistic aim is to articulate the beauty and resilience of the Black experience, drawing upon ancestral influences to convey stories of triumph and forge connections across the past, present, and future.
Strange has composed for notable artists and choreographers including Leslie Parker, Ananya Chatterjea, Joanna Lees, and Pramila Vasudevan. His significant accolades include the 2018 ACF | Create Award and a 2019 Jerome Hill Fellowship. Most recently, he was named the inaugural composer-in-residence for the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) for their 2025-26 60th anniversary season.
This event is part of the We Are Water MN exhibit at Capitol Region Watershed District’s Watershed Learning Center from April 23 to June 14, 2026. Art + Water Workshops are organized by CRWD Artist-in-Residence Sarah Peters and CRWD Community Engagement Coordinator Maricella Xiong.
Registration
This event is free, however registration is required.
Registration Questions: Contact the Capitol Region Watershed District
Register Now

Lake Itasca - Investing with Your Heart: Understanding and Caring for Minnesota’s Lakes
2026-06-15 19:00 | Biome Center, Itasca Biological Station, 28131 University Circle, Lake Itasca, 56470, United States
The We Are Water MN exhibit moves to Itasca this week! Join us for this public seminar to hear from Dr. Jake Walsh, Assistant Professor in Fisheries Wildlife and Conservation Biology at the University of Minnesota, who will share about his research partnerships with State, local, and Tribal governments and local citizen groups to better understand and manage our valuable lakes.
Dr. Jake Walsh is an assistant professor in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology. Jake studies lake ecology and stewardship, especially in understanding and managing aquatic biological communities and ecosystem services with state, local, and tribal partners. Aquatic invasive species are often a central focus of this work. Prior to joining FWCB, Jake worked as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Aquatic Invasive Species Research & Grants Coordinator.
About We Are Water MN
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Itasca - We Are Water MN
2026-06-18 - 2026-08-10 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: MN DNR Itasca State Park and U of M Itasca Biological Station
As we reach the height of summer in Minnesota, We Are Water MN travels north to a deeply significant site for water in our state: the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River! The water found at Lake Itasca begins here and flows on its winding way 2552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. Join the thousands of visitors from all over the state, country, and world this summer and see the We Are Water MN exhibit next to the serenity and natural beauty of Lake Itasca, a national landmark.
This hosting will be within Itasca State Park, run by the DNR, and co-led by the U of M Itasca Biological Station, an active field station devoted to research and teaching on how ecosystems work, with an eye to cultivating an appreciation of their value and preservation for future generations. Itasca Station has been in operation since 1907 and is one of the oldest continuously operational field stations in the United States of America.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Itasca - We Are Water Mn Exhibit Launch
2026-06-18 10:30 - 14:00 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
Celebrate the launch of We Are Water MN at Itasca State Park with a morning and afternoon filled with free, family-friendly activities.
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Water Encounters: Incredible Journey: Water’s Wild Ride Through the Water Cycle
Imagine being a water droplet as it moves through Earth’s systems! Come and discover the complex pathways that water follows on its journey through the water cycle. Through movement, role-play, and reflection, participants will explore how water changes form and travels through the atmosphere, land, and living things. Everyone will make a beaded charm to represent their water droplet’s journey.
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.- Picnic in the Park
Bring your own picnic lunch to enjoy during the opening activities.
Noon – 1:00 p.m. – Ice Cream Social
Enjoy a sweet treat to help celebrate water! Friends of Itasca are sponsoring the ice cream social. Ice cream available while supply lasts.
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. – Water Encounters: Water Blessing
Meet at the campfire circle outside the Lakeside Museum in the picnic grounds (in between Lake Itasca and the picnic shelter)
Animikii Graves will perform songs in English and Ojibwe on drum and flute, leading us in an exploration of connections between water, nature, gratitude, and tradition. Water songs will honor the important relationship between women and water in Ojibwe teachings. The program will conclude with a Miigwech (“thank you” in Ojibwemowin) Season ceremony to express gratitude for the gifts of the seasons, as we shift from spring into summer. There will be time for audience questions and conversation about these Anishinaabe teachings. Notes: Seating is limited, consider bringing your camp chair. In the event of rain, the presentation will be held inside the Lakeside Museum or under the picnic shelter by the museum.
About We Are Water MN
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Itasca - Wellness by the Water: Watercolor Painting in Nature
2026-06-27 13:30 - 14:30 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
Let’s get creative! Come paint next to Lake Itasca and become inspired by the beauty of Itasca State Park and U of M Itasca Biological Station. Note: a limited supply of paper, watercolor palettes, and brushes will be provided. Feel free to bring your own supplies too!
About We Are Water MN
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Itasca - Loon Afternoon
2026-07-11 13:00 - 15:30 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
Enjoy an afternoon of free, family-friendly activities at Itasca State Park and U of M Itasca Biological Station as part of the We Are Water MN exhibit.
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. – Itasca’s Presenter’s Under the Pines: Loons – A History of a Minnesota Icon
Join guest presenter and storyteller, Steve Maanum, as he takes you on a photographic journey into the lives of the Minnesota state bird.
1:45 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. – Water Encounters: Loon Bingo
Let’s play Yodel — the loon version of Bingo! Play for prizes and learn about loon habitat, predators, and prey!
2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. – Waterwise Science Talk: The Minnesota Loon Restoration Project
Learn how the Minnesota Loon Restoration Project is helping loons thrive through habitat protection, nesting platforms, and volunteer monitoring. Join Loon Program Coordinator, Tim Mitchell, for a project update and discover how you can bring this citizen science effort to your lake.
3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Water Encounters: Loon Calling Contest
Wooo! Wail, tremolo, yodel, and hoot — come win a prize and impress with your best loon call at our Loon calling competition! Sign up the day of the competition at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center.
About We Are Water MN
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Park Rapids - The Unseen Majority in a Drop of Water
2026-07-17 13:00 - 14:30 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
As you visit the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, stop by the nature cart to visit with this week’s special guest, Dr. Beatriz Baselga-Cervera, Assistant Professor of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior at the University of Minnesota, and explore the hidden world of freshwater microorganisms. Although they are often invisible to the naked eye, microorganisms are essential engines of freshwater ecosystems — supporting food webs, driving critical nutrient cycles like nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon, and shaping the health of lakes, ponds, and rivers.
This event will take place at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center.
Host Partner: MN DNR Itasca State Park and U of M Itasca Biological Station
Dr. Baselga-Cervera’s research merges microbial experimental evolution and bioprospecting as powerful approaches that simultaneously evaluate causal factors and integrate across ecology, evolution, and genetics disciplines. Research topics include: 1) bioprospection of microalgae and bacteria from extreme environments to address questions from adaptation to biotechnology, 2) study of the evolution of complexity in the context of phenotype, genotype, and environment (GxPxE) interactions across the transition towards multicellularity, and 3) integration of experimental evolution and bioprospection to address diversity and ecological questions of freshwater microbial communities (i.e., cyanobacteria and magnetotactic bacteria). Dr. Baselga-Cervera’s research tests the nature of microbial interactions, the emergence of complexity, adaptation to extreme environments, how global change steers evolution, and the discovery of new functions, to mention a few. Dr. Baselga-Cervera’s research is inherently multi-disciplinarity, often giving rise to biotechnological applications and research knowledge that can help stakeholders and policymakers.
Dr. Beatriz Baselga-Cervera has 10+ years of experience performing community-centered outreach and communication, mainly targeting Spanish-speaking communities. Focus on building positive mentoring-outreach programs and interventions through multi-disciplinary laboratory and field research.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Itasca - Wellness by the Water: Yoga by the Lake
2026-07-18 10:00 - 11:00 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
Relax and unwind with Yoga by the Lake, catered to all ages and levels of physical fitness! Enjoy nature while benefiting from yoga as the calming view of Lake Itasca and the towering pines overhead center you. This event is part of the We Are Water MN exhibit at Itasca State Park and U of M Itasca Biological Station
Notes: Participants should bring a mat, blanket, or beach towel and should wear comfortable clothing. Led by personal yoga trainers. All levels welcome.
About We Are Water MN
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Park Rapids - Protecting Manoomin (Wild Rice), Protecting Water and Everyone
2026-07-30 19:00 - 20:00 | Biome Center, Itasca Biological Station, 28131 University Circle, Lake Itasca, 56470, United States
Join us for this public seminar co-presented by Zhaashiigid Nooding (Ojibwe knowledge-holder from the White Earth Nation Reservation, Red Lake Nation citizen) and Crystal Ng (settler hydrologist, professor at University of Minnesota).
Manoomin (in Ojibwe), or natural Wild Rice, is an aquatic plant that is central to the cultural identity of Indigenous peoples throughout the Upper Great Lakes region. Tribal harvesters also hold generations of understanding about the natural and human factors that influence its well-being. Zhaashiigid Nooding and Crystal Ng will share their collaboration story of bringing together Indigenous knowledge and western science to protect Manoomin, an endeavor that protects all the water and human and non-human beings around it.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Park Rapids - Nature Journaling
2026-08-01 10:00 - 11:30 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
Nature journaling is a meditative practice that sharpens observation of the natural world through drawing and writing. On the shores of Lake Itasca, we’ll explore life on land and in the lake – and the connections between them. Whether you’re new or experienced, join us to practice in this inspiring setting. This event is led by Dr. Jennifer Powers, Itasca Drawn to Nature instructor and Professor of Plant and Microbial Biology at the University of Minnesota. Note: a limited supply of journaling notebooks and colored pencils will be provided. Feel free to bring your own supplies too!
Host Partner: MN DNR Itasca State Park and U of M Itasca Biological Station
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Park Rapids - Wet and Wild Mississippi River Day
2026-08-06 13:00 - 14:30 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, United States
Come explore water and life along the Mississippi River at a variety of information and activity stations. Learn about water, wildlife, plants and people that make the river home. This come-and-go event is family-friendly and has activities for all ages.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
We are Water MN is paid for by the Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Little Falls - We Are Water MN
2026-08-13 - 2026-10-05 | Great River Arts, 122 1st Street SE, Little Falls, MN, 56345, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Great River Arts
As the summer comes to a close and fall sets in, join We Are Water MN at Great River Arts (GRA) in Little Fall, where creativity meets community. GRA exists to enrich lives through the arts and become the art hub for the Morrison County area, playing a significant role in sustaining the community’s artistic and economic vibrancy. From live theater and music performances to continuous visual art exhibits, art classes for youth and adults, and now the We Are Water MN exhibit, come see how all of the wonderful things that happen when water and art meet!
We are especially excited that the exhibit will be in town during the annual and always highly anticipated Little Falls Arts and Crafts Fair, September 12-13. We look forward to bringing We Are Water MN to the thousands of art enthusiasts visiting the heart of downtown Little Falls.
For this hosting, Great River Arts is partnered with the City of Little Falls, the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, and the Morrison Soil & Water Conservation District.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Blaine - We Are Water MN
2026-10-08 - 2026-11-30 | Northtown Library, 711 County Hwy 10 NE, Blaine, MN, 55434, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Anoka County Library
We Are Water MN will round out its 2026 tour at the Northtown Library in Blaine! Anoka County Libraries exist to serve their communities and connect them to resources and learning, and We Are Water MN is no exception, bringing water education and engagement to the library. Fun fact: Anoka County is the 4th largest county in the state of Minnesota, comprised of over 360,000 residents! Libraries are naturally places people go to learn, and we look forward to seeing the many water related resources, books, book discussions, and beyond!
Though most of the programming at Northtown will happen indoors, the library also features beautiful outdoor grounds, with a pond and Shoreline Buffer Garden that are on library premises. Join us outside for nature programming!
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More
