Taste of Chaska
Free
Outdoors
A space for all things nature, this category covers outdoor activities, local parks, trails, and conservation efforts. Whether it’s hiking spots, wildlife sightings, or seasonal tips for outdoor recreation, this section encourages readers to explore and appreciate the natural beauty in our community.
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Birds of Carver County: Baltimore Oriole
In the first week of May, it’s time for bright orange nectar feeders, jars of grape jelly and maybe a few oranges cut up and poked onto spikes. Folks doing… read more >>
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CoCoRaHS in Need of Additional Volunteers Across Minnesota
April is Severe Weather Awareness Month, and the National Weather Service is seeking more people to join CoCoRaHS, a volunteer network where participants measure and report daily precipitation from their… read more >>
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Cultivating Joy: The Champagne of Dirt
An exploration into the first sign of spring – the scent of April rains. This aroma, created by soil bacteria, plant oils, and lightning, triggers a deep, ancestral sense of… read more >>
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Birds of Carver County: American White Pelican
American White Pelicans, like the other large birds in Minnesota’s skies, draw and hold our attention. Their flocks can be a half-dozen moving steadily between our ponds and lakes, or… read more >>
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Birds of Carver County: Turkey Vulture
Turkey Vultures don’t capture our attention by singing pleasant songs. Their beauty is not notable in its aesthetic to be placed on calendar pages or greeting cards. There are no… read more >>
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‘Living Art’ in Your Own Backyard
Inspired by iconic European vertical gardens discovered during this author’s travels, these wall gardens transformed public spaces into lush, “living art”. Three European wall gardens are described as well as… read more >>
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Birds of Carver County: Tundra Swan
In the late months of winter, the sight of these large white birds, seemingly an arm’s length away, can be breathtaking. If it isn’t calling, don’t worry about its identity… read more >>
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Birds of Carver County: Bald Eagle
In the Mdewakanton Sioux culture, eagles represent strength, wisdom and connection to a spiritual realm. “Flying like an eagle” permeates our music and our dreams. Seeing a Bald Eagle in… read more >>
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Cultivating Joy: Getting a Head Start on Spring
Itching to start gardening? Yes, you can! Minnesota gardeners can maximize their 2026 harvest by starting seeds now through indoor cultivation and winter sowing. Indoor starting provides control for heat-loving… read more >>
