Workshops/Presentations

We love our lush green lawns, maybe a bit too much? Join Comfort Lake Forest Lake Watershed District at Hardwood Creek Library to learn what we can plant. We'll discuss lawn alternatives that are more environmentally friendly and will keep your backyard buzzing. Small changes can save you time and money while creating beauty and…

A native wildflower garden will attract beautiful butterflies and bees to your yard and help pollinators stay healthy. You can plant a garden anywhere from the boulevard of your city lot, under pine trees and even that shady corner where nothing ever seems to ever grow. We will cover it all from weeds to seeds and start…

More frequent extreme weather events and the spread of invasive pests are intensifying the challenges caused by low plant diversity in managed landscapes. These pressures can lead to weaker ecosystems that are less able to adapt to environmental stress, disease, and climate change. The University of Minnesota Extension Horticulture promotes increasing plant diversity as a…

Come and join us to learn about bee basics and the importance of native bees. We will also be making bee houses to take home. Turn your crafty creativity into functional fun. More bees means more fruits, veggies and flowers in your own backyard! Supplies and materials are provided, just bring your creativity. https://forestlake.ce.eleyo.com/course/8445/winter-2026-jan-apr/bee-houses-parent-child-ages-5-10

Is there anything more exciting than playing with bugs? We will be digging right in and seeing what kind of buggy neighbors are swimming around the lakes and streams. This is a very hands-on session full of creepy crawly fun that will leave you with a better appreciation of how important insects are as well…

Landscaping near and around septic systems is a concern of many homeowners. Whether you already have an existing septic system or will be installing a new one to your residence, there are many aesthetic options. Participants will learn some tips and techniques that not only will help the looks of the system; they will also…

Why do fish chase after one lure but ignore the next one? Do they see every color, certain colors or none at all? We will be talking about and looking at a wide variety of gadgets and lures, as well as giving you a chance to make your own to take home and try out.…

Please join us to learn how the University of Minnesota’s Fisheries Systems Ecology Lab is studying the ways zebra mussel invasions influence mercury buildup in aquatic food webs. The lab’s recent work brings together several related projects that explore how these invasive mussels can reshape lake ecosystems by altering nutrient cycling, changing food web structure,…

Growing fruit trees and shrubs in Minnesota can be tricky because of our short growing season. One solution is to grow native fruit trees and shrubs! Join us to learn how to make it work. Learn about hardy fruit trees and shrubs that will flourish in our backyards, sustaining both people and local wildlife. There…