Summer solstice is two days away. Whereas nine years ago during the summer solstice the region was literally flooding with record rainfall, this June rainfall totals are at less than one-half inch so far -- two inches below normal. Many bird fledglings are emerging, and some lake frogs are calling and beginning to mate. Some butterfly species are making their first appearance for the year.
Among other wildflowers that you can see, the Minnesota state flower, the pink lady's slipper, is in bloom. And berry season is beginning as well!