We Are Water at Itasca | College of Biological Sciences

Explore the science, history, story, culture, and relationships of water in Minnesota.

This summer, Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories and Itasca State Park will co-host We Are Water Minnesota. This interdisciplinary, statewide initiative, led by the Minnesota Humanities Center and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, features a traveling exhibit designed to engage communities in conversations about the vital role of water in Minnesota. In addition to hosting the exhibit, the station and the park will offer a series of water-focused events inviting the public to participate in guided outdoor experiences, scientific talks, and other interactive programs.

Local stories from community members. Learn about the role water plays in their lives, from work to recreation.

Interactive exhibits for all ages. Explore what makes the waters of this area unique, and find out what we can do to keep our waters healthy.

Events that explore various water themes. How can we protect it? What can we learn from one another about water?

We Are Water Program Descriptions

We Are Water Exhibit

The We Are Water exhibit will be located in the Lakeside Museum at Itasca State Park. The exhibit will be open to the public during park operating hours. A satellite installation at the Itasca Biological Station will be open to visitors during the station’s scheduled public events. June 18 to August 10

Waterwise Science Talks

Join us for this public seminar series exploring the science of water, from local lakes and wetlands to global watersheds, as researchers share their discoveries and offer insights into ecology, conservation, and the natural world. The series connects the community to ongoing research and fosters a deeper appreciation for water’s value and preservation.

Water Encounters

Join us for a series of hands-on, participatory programs featuring interactive activities, demonstrations, and outdoor experiences. These events explore water-related topics through nature-based learning, citizen science, and engaging public activities.

Wellness By the Water

Water sustains all life — including our mental well-being. Join us for a Saturday morning series of water-themed wellness events, including yoga by the lake, sound bathing, water coloring, and nature journaling.

Schedule of events

Loon Afternoon

Saturday, July 11, 2026 at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center Classroom

1 - 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 - 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 - 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.

Waterwise Science Talk

Protecting Manoomin (Wild Rice), Protecting Water and Everyone

Thursday, July 30, 7-8 p.m. at the Biome Center, Itasca Biological Station

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.

Wellness By the Water

Nature Journaling

Saturday, August 1, 10-11:30 a.m. at the picnic shelter near the Lakeside Museum

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.

Waterwise Science Talk

Tracking dragons: The science of dragonfly migration

Monday, August 3, 10-11 a.m. at the Biome Center, Itasca Biological Station

Did you know that dragonflies are aquatic insects, spending most of their lives underwater before emerging as powerful fliers? Discover the remarkable journeys of North America’s largest dragonflies — the darners. Learn how researchers study their long-distance migrations, explore their underwater nymph stage up close, and watch for flying adults during this hands-on program led by Dr. Emily Schilling, Associate Director of the Itasca Biological Station.

Stay tuned for more opportunities to engage with this unique traveling exhibition and celebrate Minnesota’s deep connection to water.

For more information, or to share a water-inspired event, contact Emily Schilling (Associate Director, Itasca Station) at [email protected]

The full schedule for the 2026 We Are Water host sites is:

February 25-April 20, 2026: Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo – Byron
April 21-June 15, 2026: Capitol Region Watershed District – Saint Paul
June 16-August 10, 2026: Itasca State Park – Park Rapids
August 11-October 5, 2026: Great River Arts – Little Falls
October 6-November 30, 2026: Anoka County Northtown Library - Blaine

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, and Legacy Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.