Event Description: Experience, appreciate, and explore the clean power of wind with us! We are partnering with the Minneapolis Sailing Center to sail on Bde Maka Ska and also with wind energy experts to teach us about using wind as a source of energy.

The education portion will be divided into age-appropriate groups. Younger participants will engage in wind-related STEM activities exploring the power of wind and older participants will learn from local experts about what’s happening with wind energy and how community members can be part of this clean energy solution.

Like all of our events, this event is free and all are welcome. There is absolutely no obligation, but cash or check donations to help us cover our costs are always appreciated.

9:50 am—Arrive ten minutes early.

10:00 am—After a short introduction, we’ll divide into groups. Half of the group will go sailing and the other half will engage in wind education. The kids will do STEM wind activities and the adults will learn about wind energy options for homes and in their community.

11:30 am-12:30 pm—Everyone eats lunch

12:30-2:00 pm—Switch groups. The education group will have their turn at sailing and the sailing group will engage in the education activities.

Here are a few details to help you prepare to visit the Minneapolis Sailing Center and ensure you have a fun day!

• For field trips, our events will be sailed on our Ensign Keelboats. These 23-ft. long sailboats have a weighted keel in the bottom of the boat that prevents the boat from tipping over and keeps the passengers safe. That being said, we require sailors to wear lifejackets while on the dock and on the boat for safety. We have life jackets available for use free of charge. Sailors may get a little water splashed on them, but they will not need to swim or get in the water.

• Students can expect to have a short introductory lecture on shore where they will learn the basics of sailing and review safety instructions. From there, the sailors will split into groups of 5-7 on each boat along with an instructor and sail for 1-2 hours.

• Please bring your own lunch and water bottle. If you need food assistance, please indicate that on the sign-up form.

• Lessons meet at our Boathouse (3010 E Bde Maka Ska Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55408). Please try to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time to get settled in.

• Check weather conditions before leaving home and dress appropriately. We recommend quick-drying clothing with UV protective properties. Long-sleeve swim shirts, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats all help to prevent sunburn and long-term skin and eye damage. Feet and footwear will likely get wet. Shoes that can get wet or sandals with a back strap (Teva, Chaco, Keen) are all acceptable. Flip-flops are not allowed. Shoes must be worn at all times.

• Sailors can bring a small bag or backpack with them that can be stored in our boathouse during the sail. We encourage sailors to bring a full water bottle on the boat to stay hydrated.

• We require all participants to complete our Medical and Liability Waiver and bring them to the event or email ahead of time.

• Get ready to have fun! If you want to come back to learn more, just ask our staff how to stay involved!

Restrooms. There a portapotties onsite.

Health screening. Please stay home if you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, sore throat, cough, or shortness of breath. We ask that all participants evaluate their health before attending a program.

Dress for the weather.

Other accommodations. If you are in need of transportation, translation, or other accommodations, please let us know. Please give us a few days of notice so we can get suitable items for you.