Embracing nature through Chester Woods and Oxbow Park
10/3/2024 by Muse Abdi, M.B.B.S, B.BiomedSc., M.P.H., and Brian Lynch, M.D.
In an age dominated by technology and fast-paced urban living, the importance of reconnecting with nature cannot be overstated. Parks like Chester Woods and Oxbow Park in Olmsted County provide vital opportunities for people and families to immerse themselves in the natural world. Their diverse programs from October to December 2024 offer a range of activities designed to educate, involve and inspire visitors of all ages.
October Programs
- Saturday, October 5, 1 p.m. – Chester Woods Park Fall Wagon Ride (Chester Woods Park)
Enjoy a fall wagon ride to the dam overlook and back. Space is limited; call 507-328-7350 to reserve a spot. - Saturday, October 5, 1 p.m. – Fall Color Hike (Oxbow Park)
Discover fall colors during a hike with a naturalist. Meet at the Nature Center. - Saturday, October 12, 11 a.m. – Root River Park Fall Wagon Ride (Chester Woods Park)
Enjoy a fall wagon ride at Root River Park. Space is limited; call 507-328-7350 to reserve a spot. - Sunday, October 13, 1 p.m. – Deer and Elk Feeding (Oxbow Park)
Learn about and watch deer and elk eat. Includes short hike (accommodations available). - Saturday, October 19, 11 a.m. – Mindfulness Meander (Oxbow Park)
Learn about the benefits of being immersed in nature and participating in mindfulness activities. Meet at the Nature Center. - Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – BOO at the Zoo (Oxbow Park)
Celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating and activities at Oxbow Park. Watch zoo animals enjoy pumpkin treats at 1:00 p.m.
November Programs
- Sunday, November 3, 1 p.m. – Raptor Feeding (Oxbow Park)
Learn about and watch Minnesota’s birds of prey eat at the raptor exhibit. - Saturday, November 9, 1 p.m. – Mindfulness Meander (Oxbow Park)
Learn about the health benefits of being immersed in nature and participate in mindfulness activities. Meet at the Nature Center. - Sunday, November 17, 11 a.m. – Feed the Bison (Oxbow Park)
Learn about Plains Bison and watch them eat. Includes short hike (accommodations available). - Saturday, November 23, 1 p.m. – Wild Turkeys (Oxbow Park)
Learn about wild turkeys and their historical significance.
December Programs
- Sunday, December 1, 11 a.m. – Animals in Winter (Oxbow Park)
Examine fur pelts to Discover how animals stay warm in winter. Meet in the Nature Center. - Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7, 5 to 8 p.m. – ZooDazzle! (Oxbow Park)
Visit Zollman Zoo, decorated with holiday lights. There are no additional activities. - Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14, 5 to 8 p.m. – ZooDazzle! (Oxbow Park)
Enjoy Zollman Zoo lit up with holiday lights, treats, activities, and a possible visit from Santa. Admission is free. - Sunday, December 22, 1 p.m. – Holiday Craft (Oxbow Park)
With provided supplies, create a decorated wood cookie ornament.
Both parks are committed to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy their offerings. They provide a variety of accessibility accommodations, such as mobility aids, sensory sensitivity kits, ASL interpreters, and enhanced acoustics for deaf people. This dedication to inclusivity ensures that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can experience the benefits of nature.
The programs at Chester Woods and Oxbow Park highlight how nature can enrich our lives. These parks offer something for everyone, from educational activities and conservation efforts to mindful relaxation and festive celebrations. By participating in these programs, people and families can deepen their connection to the natural world, foster community, and contribute to preserving our precious natural resources. Embracing the opportunities provided by these parks is not just about recreation; it is about nurturing our relationship with the environment and recognizing its profound impact on our well-being.
Muse Abdi, M.B.B.S., B.BiomedSc, M.P.H., is a community health specialist and a strategist for the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) at Olmsted County Public Health Services. His responsibilities encompass various health promotion initiatives, including educating healthcare providers about the significance of prescribing time spent in nature and raising public awareness regarding the health advantages of the natural environment. He is the facilitator for the Southeast Minnesota Park Rx Coalition; holds the role of co-liaison and co-facilitator for the newly established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion project; and is the lead of the SHIP Community Leadership Team Initiative within the Olmsted County Community Council.
Brian Lynch, M.D., is a primary care pediatrician at Mayo Family Clinic Northwest in Rochester. He co-chairs the Primary Care Work Group of the Mayo Clinic Obesity Council and chairs the Primary Care Obesity Task Force. Dr. Lynch works closely with the Southeast Minnesota Park Rx Team to promote the physical and mental health benefits of spending time in nature with his patients and colleagues.