Explore Wetland Ecology in Tunnel Valley

Centered around one of the most impressive landscape features in southern Washington County, Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park totals nearly 600 acres. The ravine for which it is named is approximately a half-mile wide with 80- to 100-foot slopes, and bisects the park north to south before ending in Ravine Lake. Known as a "tunnel valley," the ravine was carved by a subglacial drainageway that carried large volumes of water, eroding the valley.

With Friends of the Mississippi River ecologist Karen Schik and Washington Conservation District's Angie Hong, tour participants will explore Ravine Lake and the wetlands surrounding it. You'll learn about the plant life in and around the wetlands — aquatic, amphibious, and terrestrial — and the important role these plants play as they provide habitat and filter pollutants from our waters. We'll also use dip nets to get a closer look at macroinvertebrates living in the marsh, and discuss what these tiny creatures reveal about the impacts of water pollution!

Participants will also learn about the restoration of this beautiful area, including fall volunteer opportunities at the site.

Ready to register?

To ensure a high-quality experience, capacity is limited and preregistration required. Minors are welcome to participate with a parent or guardian.

To sign up and receive directions to the meeting spot, contact FMR Event Registrar via the contact form (please select Janna by name from the staff list under "Category") or jknittel@fmr.org, 651-222-2193 x31. Please include: the name of the event, your name, address and phone number and the number in your party.

You will receive a confirmation email and additional details, such as directions and what to wear, from jknittel[at]fmr.org within one to two business days. If you have earthlink or an active SPAM filter, please add Janna's email address to your contacts to ensure receipt.

More information

Thank you partners and sponsors Washington Conservation District, Washington County, City of Cottage Grove, REI, the Outdoor Heritage Fund and the 3M Foundation!

Capacity and supplies are limited. Advance registration highly encouraged.