• Shepard Farm Opening

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    Shepard Farm will open to the public on April 2, 2022, providing access to a mile-long trail, and nature programs for children, adults and families. The trail will be open sunrise to sunset, 365 days a year. The trailhead is marked by a white kiosk to the west of the parking lot. The first day of […]

    Free
  • Our Wild Neighbors: Rascally Raccoons

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    Bring your family to Shepard Farm and spend an hour with “Our Wild Neighbors.” This month let’s meet some masked raiders: Raccoons! They can climb downspouts and fences with ease. They swarm out of the sewer, sneak down alleys, and unlatch the most-securely fastened containers. Learn about these nimble, clever, and sometimes nuisance visitors to our yards. […]

    Free
  • Guided Trail Hike

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    Want to get to know Shepard Farm, Dodge Nature Center’s newest property in Cottage Grove? Join trained Dodge volunteers for a guided trail hike through the big woods. On this 45-minute hike, you’ll be introduced to the wildlife, environment and historic character of Shepard Farm. This hike is free and open to the public! No experience necessary—people […]

  • Halloween Extravaganza

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    Let’s celebrate Halloween at Dodge Nature Center’s Shepard Farm in Cottage Grove! Trick-or-treat through the woods and ride on the hay wagon to look for ghosts and goblins. You can meet slithery creatures, dance to the music, and warm up by the bonfire. Try your luck at field games to win extra treats, then settle in for […]

  • Our Wild Neighbors: Amazing Monarchs

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    Bring your family to Shepard Farm and spend an hour with “Our Wild Neighbors.” This month, let’s meet monarchs! Of all the butterflies in the world, Minnesota has chosen the monarch as its state butterfly. Learn about the fascinating life of monarchs and how citizen scientists are helping to uncover more about this extraordinary insect. Once a […]

  • Night for Nature

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    You’re invited to Night for Nature, the annual benefit for Dodge Nature Center and Preschool! Help finish the Nourishing Everyone’s Need for Nature Campaign and celebrate the opening of the new Education Center at Shepard Farm. Enjoy an engaging program, live auction, hosted hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktail, and wine and beer. Adults, only please. Wear your best farm chic attire! […]

  • Halloween Extravaganza

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    Let’s celebrate Halloween at Dodge Nature Center’s Shepard Farm in Cottage Grove! Trick-or-treat through the woods, ride on the hay wagon to look for ghosts and goblins, and meet slithery creatures. Try your luck at field games to win extra treats, then settle in for some silly science skits that will educate and entertain. Food will be […]

  • Taste and Learn: Holiday Cookies

    Dodge Nature Center - Shepard Farm 8946 70th street S., Cottage Grove, MN

    A popular tradition during the holidays is to bake and share cookies special to this seasonal time. Join Dodge naturalists at the new Education Center at Shepard Farm to learn about the origins and traditions associated with holiday cookies. Learn about the plants that become the various spices and extracts used to flavor these seasonal […]