While we hope to have in-depth discussions about stream restoration, we also want to get to know each of you and have some fun!
All events are included in your conference registration. Remember that Northern Minnesota can be chilly in late fall. Bring appropriate clothing so that we can enjoy Lake Superior and the below events. The average daytime temperature is 45°F.
Sunday at the Stewart River
No private vehicle parking is permitted at the Stewart River site. Shuttle service between the Stewart River and hotels (Superior Shores and Country Inn) will begin at 3:30 p.m. and continue approximately every 15 minutes until 9:00 p.m.
4:00 and 4:30 p.m. TOUR OF THE STEWART RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT
Join us for a tour of the Stewart River restoration lead by Dave Rosgen (designer), Keith Anderson (engineer), and Darrell Westmoreland (contractor).The Stewart River is one of our prized North Shore trout streams, running near Two Harbors. In 2015, a 5,000 linear foot Natural Channel Design project was completed in the upper part of the watershed. Tour leaders will discuss the project history and objectives as well as the design and construction process. We will learn about how the project came to be, lessons learned in the field, and how the project is looking 3 years later and 5 months after a 100 year flood.
4:00 p.m. until Dark FLY CASTING LESSON WITH MINNESOTA TROUT UNLIMITED
Experience the river by learning how to cast fly rod.
Minnesota Trout Unlimited members will show you the basics of casting a fly rod, what types of flies to use, and how to read the water to find the fish. All equipment will be provided. Fishing season will be over, but you can still try out casting on the river using hook-less flies.
5:15 p.m. BARBECUE AND BONFIRE
Kick-off the conference with a catered barbeque at the river. Dinner will be served in a heated event tent to ensure we can enjoy our meal no matter the weather. Bonfires will follow dinner; weather permitting. Drinks will be provided by Bent Paddle Brewing Company.
Round-trip transportation will be provided to and from Superior Shores. Busses will be running continuously so if we arrive late you can still join us! Please note that no personal vehicles will be allowed at the river.
Monday Evening Game Night – Stream Practitioner’s Pictionary
We will be gathering players to compete in a game specifically devised for stream practitioners. Teams will be formed on Monday evening to see which team has the most holistic understanding of stream science. Oh, and drawing skill, creativity and luck might also help determine the winning team. As streams are a reflection of many components, working with them requires knowledge across several fields of study. Likewise, the terms you will be asked to draw in this game come from hydrology, geomorphology, biology, water chemistry, geology, surveying, construction and engineering, as well as the human components and values we derive from streams. So come test your drawing and guessing ability while having fun meeting new people. The friendly competition will take place upstairs in the bar area following the Monday night banquet.
Players can sign up for a Pictionary team at the registration desk located in the lobby.
Tuesday Evening 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. CURLING ADVENTURE AND DINNER
Shuttle service between the curling club and hotels (Superior Shores and Country Inn) will begin at 6:00 p.m. and continue until 10:00 p.m. The bus will run when needed so don’t hesitate to ask the driver.
What better way to end your time up north than to try your hand at a game of curling.
Curling is a game of fitness and finesse! Join local curlers on the ice to learn the basics, throw a few rocks, or play a game. Please wear clothing that allows you to move and keeps you warm, and bring a clean pair of tennis shoes. All other equipment will be provided. The curling area will be approximately 24°F.
Please sign up for a curling time slot at the registration desk. A short 30 minute lesson will help you get used to the ice and the game. Already know how to curl, we will have open ice time at the end of the night.
Not interested in going out on the ice? That’s ok, socialize from the warmth of the lounge while you watch others through the windows.
A catered dinner will be provided by the Two Harbors Curling Club and a cash bar will be available.
Pre and Post Conference Activities
For those interested in arriving early or extending their stay on Minnesota's beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior, check out the many other activities available. Link to Local Attractions