Help restore the forests of the Lower Arboretum by protecting young trees from winter deer browse!
In the winter, hungry deer search out the buds of trees and shrubs. We can protect new trees by hiding their top bud inside a small paper bag which is stapled closed. Deer are visual feeders, so they don't detect the bud inside the bag.
Meet in the Lower Arboretum at the southernmost parking lot along Canada Avenue. Watch for staff directing you to parking, as this parking area is small. The Arboretum staff will provide all needed equipment, you just need to dress for the weather.
Accessibility Information
Non-accessible parking
Taking place outdoors
No bathrooms
About the “Arb”
The Cowling Arboretum trails are open to the public daily 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. year-round, with no admission fee.
The Cannon River is a popular fishing spot, and the upland and lowland forests along with the 200 acre prairie restoration provide excellent bird and wildlife watching opportunities as well as peaceful nature appreciation. Among the species of note is the endangered tall-grass prairie specialist Henslow Sparrow (Ammodramus henslowii).
Cowling Arboretum boasts an extensive 15-mile trail system that has been ranked by Runner’s Magazine as a top place to run in Minnesota, and one of the top 10 in the country. In the winter, trails are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. The Arboretum is a delightful place to walk any time of the year.
Sign Up for our Volunteer Corps program!
Volunteer Corps connects people and organizations with hands-on opportunities to protect and improve our water and natural environment in southeast Minnesota. We do this work by partnering with local organizations and recruiting volunteers for restoration and conservation activities, such as invasive species removal, native seed collection, tree and native species plantings, and our signature Watershed-Wide Cleanup.
Questions?
Contact Heron Mahr (they/them), our Community Engagement Manager
Email: heron@cleanriverpartners.org
Phone: (507) 200-0502
Thank you to our event partners and supporters!
