Spring Dragonfly Identification & Volunteer Trainings

Join us for the first MDS-led Dragonfly ID & Volunteer Trainings in five years! 

Get ready for a busy summer of chasing dragonflies by joining Minnesota Dragonfly Society Board members for dragonfly identification &/or volunteer trainings this spring!

When: Sunday, April 21, 2024 (see specific session times below)

Where: William O'Brien State Park*

Register here

Dragonfly Identification Training

Whether you're unsure of the difference between dragonflies and damselflies, you just want an ID refresher, or anywhere in between, explore preserved specimens and photographs to learn the process and fundamentals of dragonfly identification in a guided, small-group setting.  As there will likely be no dragonflies on the wing at this time, this will be an indoor event.

Choose one of two sessions: 9-11am or 1-3pm. 

Cost: $20 donation per person/$10 for active MDS members (scholarships available).  Limit 15 participants.  Pre-registration strongly recommended; space may not be available for walk-ins.

Led by MDS Board Members:

• MDS Founder, Naturalist, and Author of Dragonflies of the Northwoods- Kurt Mead

• Photographer, Webmaster, and President of the Wisconsin Dragonfly Society- Jeff Fischer

Volunteer Training

Thinking about becoming a volunteer for MDS?  Want to help us share more excitement and knowledge about dragonflies?  Currently volunteering through MDS but want a refresher, updates, or information on how to become a lead volunteer?  Join us for a volunteer training!

Choose one or both sessions: 

• General volunteer training: 11am-noon
  Learn how easy it is to help out at MDS events, programs, surveys, and bioblitzes, and all the tools and equipment that may be available.  All that's required is an interest in dragonflies/damselflies and a willingness to share your interest with others. 

• Lead volunteer training: 3-4pm
  We can't say 'yes' to event requests without our lead volunteers, and we could really use more help.  Learn all the components of being a lead volunteer and how you can help get the word out about both MDS and dragonflies/damselflies.

Cost: free!  Limit 15 participants.  Pre-registration strongly recommended; space may not be available for walk-ins.

Led by Naturalist and President/Volunteer Coordinator of the Minnesota Dragonfly Society, Leah Darst.

*Note- a Minnesota State Park annual permit or day pass is required to enter and park at William O'Brien.  If you'd like to purchase one in advance, you can buy one here.

Registration bonus

If you register on or before April 19, you can purchase one piece of MDS merchandise (shirt or hat) at a $10 discount.  Any additional shirts or hats can be purchased at a $5 discount.  You can either add your purchase to your registration payment (with a note) or wait to pay for your MDS gear the day of the event.  Limited shirt colors and styles available.  

Questions?  Feel free to email us at info@mndragonfly.org.