Thank you to everyone that signed up to clean up of our parks and green spaces.

The new system seemed to work well and we will continue this in the future. If anyone did not get to their space, please call our office and let us know if you have picked another day.

Again, a big thank you to all the volunteers that help with this community event; it is much appreciated!

Interpretive center now open

The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center interpretive building is now open. The new building has something for all ages.

We are sure you will enjoy the new exhibit display. Summer programming is currently underway as well.

Sign up at the interpretive center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Trail hours at the center are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. It’s a great way to unwind, walk and take in some nature.

Summer programs

Park and Recreation summer program sign up is underway. Our office is at City Hall, 500 Fourth Ave. NE and is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

You may also find all our information on the city website at www.ci.austin.mn.us.

Summer jobs

Looking for a summer job? We may have something for you.

We are currently taking applications for all summer employment opportunities. You can find the seasonal job application online, print it off and bring it to our office.

Riverside Arena

We will have ice all summer.

Think about renting the arena for a skating party, call our office for details at 507-433-1881. It’s a great place to cool down this summer and still get the benefit of some exercise.

Make sure to like us on Facebook so you receive up to date information..

Riverside Figure Skate Club spring session are 1 to 3:30 p.m. on May 7

Adult Open Hockey: 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. Cost is $6 per person each event. Attendees must be 16; goalies are free.

Public skate: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday and 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday. The cost is $4 to skate plus $1 if you need to rent skates.

Stick time: 5 to 6:15 p.m. Tuesday and May 9.

Watch for cyclists and walkers

As we approach the end of the school year and nice weather, people are out enjoying parks, playgrounds and bike paths either riding or walking, so please be cautious while you are driving past them.

Also, a reminder that young children are excited to be outside playing and they don’t always remember to watch for cars; please drive with awareness.

Pet ordinance

A reminder that the city Austin has a pet ordinance: “Except as hereinafter provided, no pet animals, including horses, are permitted in public parks. Except for horses, pet animals are permitted on all public trails and park roadways with the exception of the three fenced ball complexes: North and south Todd Park and Riverland Community College.

While using the public trails and park roadways, pet animals shall be adequately restrained by a durable leash, cord, chain or other similar restraint and the pet animals shall be under the direct control of their owner, except that pet animals under the supervision of their owner may be unrestrained in the area designated as the dog park.”

The Dog Park area is located east of South Main Street between First and Second Street Southeast along the north side of the river.