Events

Nature printmaking is the art of creating lifelike images on paper or fabric with found objects from nature. MDC Naturalist Pat Whalen exhibits nature prints from his personal work and programs he presents at the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center. His prints will be on display in the west wing hallway through August. 

Columbia Missouri Artist Christine Doerr’s art is inspired by a lifetime shaped by nature, travel, and service, from the Ozarks to the Mediterranean. Rooted in the landscapes of Gans Creek, it highlights both beauty and its environmental vulnerability. Her art will be on display in the lobby through June.

After finding painted rocks around Jefferson City, Janet Bonnot joined the JC Rocks movement in 2018. Her nature-inspired rock work is on display in the west wing hallway through June. No registration required. All ages

Let’s get messy! This outdoor sensory adventure will explore mud, water, and natural materials as children mix, scoop, and create in a mud kitchen setting. It’s all about imagination, discovery, and letting the magic of messy play unfold. Wear clothes that can get dirty. A water hose will be available to clean off after the program, so a towel and an extra pair of clean clothes are encouraged as well.

Get ready to explore a world so tiny, you can’t even see it with your own eyes! Discover amazing micro-animals such as tardigrades (also call “water bears”), copepods, and nematodes. Using microscopes and simple experiments, we’ll learn how these little creatures survive in a giant world. Get ready for a big adventure with really, really small animals!

Let’s get messy! This outdoor sensory adventure will explore mud, water, and natural materials as children mix, scoop, and create in a mud kitchen setting. It’s all about imagination, discovery, and letting the magic of messy play unfold. Wear clothes that can get dirty. A water hose will be available to clean off after the program, so a towel and an extra pair of clean clothes are encouraged as well.

Turtles, Lizards, and Snakes – oh my! Discover Missouri reptiles from their scales to their tails, including what makes them unique and why they are so important. Registration is required and be sure to include your email address. The presenter will send the program link both the day before and one hour before the program begins. This program is geared toward young audiences, but all ages are welcome to register!

Step off the shoreline and into an evening of discovery as we paddle through the quieter corners of Ashland Lake. This outing is designed for adults who already feel comfortable in a kayak and want to explore the lake’s wildlife, shoreline, and shifting light at a slower, more intentional pace. Expect an easygoing paddle, plenty of nature interpretation, and a chance to watch the lake come alive as the daylight fades. All equipment will be provided but no transportation will be included. Participants will meet at Ashland Lake (3 miles east of Ashland). An email with more details will be sent to participants before the program.

Join us for a guided hike through forest, stream valleys, and grasslands to see and learn firsthand what different aspects of watersheds are like and how they influence stream water quality!

We will meet at the Turkey Creek Trailhead at the end of E Deer Park Road (NOT 3500 E Gans Road, the default address for the conservation area!) and depart for a loop hike soon after 6:00. Please anticipate a hike of about 2.0 miles in length with about 150' of elevation gain and loss.

Note that hiking can come with challenges not limited to steep, rocky, or muddy terrain; downed trees or overhanging branches; biting insects and arachnids; irritating plants; venomous snakes; and stream crossings.

Attendees under the age of 18 must have a sponsoring adult present.

Note: Participants may register and attend only one of Runge's monthly Wednesday or Saturday all-day hiking programs.

Ready to explore one of Missouri's most beautiful state parks? Interested in learning about and exploring karst topography, including beautiful bluffs, a spring, and a natural bridge? Join Runge staff volunteers for a guided hike along Devil’s Kitchen, Spring, and Colosseum trails at Ha Ha Tonka State Park (Camden Co.);3.5 miles, rugged. Meet at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City or the trailhead. Some transportation is provided, but carpooling may be necessary. Hike leaders will contact participants via email before the hike to give directions and other information. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a hiking pole, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and pack a lunch/snack. Note: Registration closes on June 24 at 8 a.m.