Learn about nature. Hike our trails. Paddle Spearhead Lake. Enjoy the solitude...
Their first 100 days...
​Enjoy this 3 minute video of loon chicks and adults over 100 days from hatching to departing for their wintering grounds. It was put together by Keith Wendt, a retired plant ecologist and science policy manager formerly with the State of MN. Keith took these pictures this past summer on a lake off the Gunflint Trail in northern Minnesota. Thanks for sharing this with us Keith!
​The mission of the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society is to foster personal connections to and stewardship of our natural world.

​​What we do...
  • Manage a 466 acre preserve located 11 miles southwest of Bemidji called the Neilson Spearhead Center and Preserve (NSC).
  • Host a summer nature camp, the “Young Naturalist Program", where kids get a hands-on, outdoor nature experience.
  • Host educational events and programs at NSC and in the community to connect people with nature.
  • Advocate for local conservation of important habitats and ecosystems. 
 ​Come explore nature with us, or participate in one of our community-based initiatives like Birds, Bees & Butterflies - Bemidji, or Bird City Minnesota.
Become a MHAS member and help protect the natural legacy of north-central Minnesota.
Our Annual MHAS Local Membership Drive has begun! ​Please support MHAS as a new or renewing member in 2021. Our goal is to build an even stronger base of local chapter members and continue to improve programs and facilities for you including: 
  • More canoes and paddles for the YNP program
  • Collaborating with Bemidji Park and Recreation department to offer ‘Forest Bathing’ at Neilson Spearhead Center & Preserve. 
  • Providing ‘Grab & Go’ nature-study backpacks at Neilson Spearhead Center & Preserve for visitors to take and explore our forests and trails. These back packs would have field guides, trail maps, binoculars, magnifying glasses, activity sheets, and other supplies to give a family or individual more ways to learn about the outdoors. 
  • Improve trail markers at the Neilson Spearhead Center & Preserve. Build additional boardwalk sections over wet areas. 
  • Continue support for BBBB, Monarch Festival, Eagle Day Celebration, and other community initiatives.
Send us an email and give us your ideas about what you would like MHAS to do for you!
Birding Is the Perfect Activity While Practicing Social Distancing!
If you’re feeling cooped up, get out and explore nature. While the Lehman Lab building is currently closed, trails at our Neilson Spearhead Center and Preserve are open!  Folks have been coming out to enjoy the wonderful signs of the seasons. Bring your camera, binoculars, field guides, and curiosity. Handled responsibly, open space and wildlife observation might be just the balm you need.
Masks are required if you encounter others on the trail, or if you are hiking with people other than your household members. Click here to see our MHAS Covid Preparedness Plan.  
The Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society is a Chapter of the National Audubon Society. 

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mhas@spearheadmhas.org
​©2019 Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society. All rights reserved.