Discover Nature Events

Look for book pages posted along Runge’s Naturescape trail and enjoy a seasonal children’s book as you walk and explore. Book begins at the trailhead across from the parking lot.

Join a naturalist at Powder Valley for story time in the forest! Bring your little ones to our campfire ring and listen to On Beyond Bugs: All About Insects, a Cat in the Hat story. Stick around afterwards for a fun bug dig! This program is most enjoyable for ages 4-7, but all are welcome.

Please make sure to register ALL who will be attending the program, including adults and children of all ages.

Join us for a 1.5-mile hike through Ruth Park Woods, a pocket of forest nestled in University City. Learn about the adaptability and resilience of urban wildlife communities and practice urban bird IDs as we explore the greenspace. Participants are welcome (and encouraged!) to meet outside the 7 Brew on Olive Boulevard to buy refreshments to enjoy throughout the program. Specific meeting details will be provided to registrants the day before the program.

Registration required (adults) Tree rings are the visible bands of wood that form around a tree's trunk as it grows. Each ring represents a year's growth, and all the rings together represent the life story of the tree. Using "tree cookies" (horizontal slices of a tree stump) as printing plates, we will create graphic prints with ink and paper that portray the life history of the tree. We will also demonstrate all the steps for preparing a tree cookie for tree ring printing. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Did you know that Missouri is home to over 1,300 different species of insects? Find out how incredible these six-legged, antennae bearing, winged creatures are at this come and go event featuring exploration stations, crafts, and fun activities. Activities will be indoors and outdoors.

Gar, a common fish species, play a vital role in the aquatic ecosystems of Missouri. Learn how these prehistoric gentle giants influence the waterways of the state and then create a craft to take home. Ages 3 to 6. Registration required.

Registration required (adults) Tree rings are the visible bands of wood that form around a tree's trunk as it grows. Each ring represents a year's growth, and all the rings together represent the life story of the tree. Using "tree cookies" (horizontal slices of a tree stump) as printing plates, we will create graphic prints with ink and paper that portray the life history of the tree. We will also demonstrate all the steps for preparing a tree cookie for tree ring printing. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

You may have seen or heard of topographic maps in the past, those maps with a bunch of squiggly lines used to show elevation. This program is intended to teach you about those maps through hands on experience at Tywappity Community Lake. We will be meeting at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center and shuttling out at the start time, where we will go over reading maps, and then use maps to navigate the forest surrounding Tywappity Lake. Participants require no map reading experience and are encouraged to wear long pants and boots.

Ages 13+ with adult.

Create with the beauty of the season! As summer’s vivid colors gently soften at Burr Oak Woods, we’ve collected a beautiful assortment of dried stems, flowers, leaves, grasses, and other natural treasures. During this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore the rich variety of textures and tones to craft your own charming garden tea light—perfect for bringing a warm, seasonal touch to your home or patio.

Beat the heat and get creative at Powder Valley! Join a naturalist to learn about Missouri’s beautiful summer wildflowers, then create your own wildflower artwork using 2D needle felting, the art of sculpting shapes with wool. Participants must be 8 years of age or older as we will be using sharp materials. Only participants within the designated age range should attend. This helps ensure the activities are developmentally appropriate, safe, and enjoyable for all involved.

Please note: This program is for registered participants only, as supplies are limited. Make sure to register ALL who will be attending the program, including adults and children.

There are two dates for this program, so make sure to show up for the correct one that you have registered for!