Photo by Christopher Hall
Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, 10 a.m.-noon
$30 member/$50 non-member, includes Arboretum admission
Program location: Park and meet at Spring Peeper Meadow parking lot.
Adult 18+
Instructor: Matt Schuth, Naturalist, Author and Minnesota Landscape Arboretum expert for more than 40 years. Discover the awakening natural world around you through Matt's wealth of wisdom, trivia and wit. Matt starts each walk with a show-and-tell from his collection of mammals, bird specimens, nests and eggs, for a hands-on experience of nature.
Discover the fascinating story behind the restoration of Spring Peeper Meadow, a thriving wetland teeming with life. Goldfinches, tree swallows, barn swallows, and gray catbirds fill the air with movement and song. Among the lush vegetation, you'll find vibrant wetland flowers like bottle gentian, arrowhead, water plantain and ironweed. Watch as meadowhawk dragonflies patrol the area, naturally keeping the mosquito population in check.
As you walk together, you will:
- Explore one of the Arboretum’s least explored spaces with an expert guide leading the way.
- Learn about meadow ecology and the delicate balance of a restored ecosystem in action!
Weather: As Minnesotans know, Mother Nature can be unpredictable…that is the joy and spontaneity of nature, and of these explorations. Be prepared for the weather and a possible change of subject matter based on what Mother Nature has in store for participants during this session. Walks will run rain or shine, and will not be canceled due to weather unless extreme conditions cause safety concerns.
Bring from home (suggested)
- Binoculars
- Magnifying glass
- Water bottle
- Practical shoes for walking over uneven paths
- Dress for the weather.
**Go directly to the Spring Peeper Parking Lot off 82nd street.** Directions: 107 W 82nd St, Chaska, MN 55318.
You will receive a bar-code ticket for entry to the Arboretum in your email purchase confirmation. Your ticket is valid for entry on the day of your class. If you would like to visit the Arboretum before or after the Walk, present your ticket to the gate attendant as you enter the Arboretum at the main Gatehouse. You may stay at the Arboretum after class as long as you want during our operating hours.