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. No registration required. All ages.

Whether you call them groundhogs or woodchucks, these burrowing creatures have plenty of surprises! Join us as we dig into their world to explore burrows, shadows, and the fun traditions of Groundhog Day through stories, crafts, and hands-on play. It’s a joyful way to celebrate the season while learning how these curious critters live. Registration required. Ages 0-2 years.

Registration required (ages 10+) Winter is full of wonder and processing tree sap into syrup is one of those wonders. This virtual program will cover the basics of tree selection, collection, processing and equipment needed to turn that watery sap into delicious syrup.

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

Grab your hiking stick and join volunteers from Runge Nature Center for a guided hike of the Gans Creek Wild Area at Rock Bridge State Park (Boone County); 3.5 miles- moderate. Meet at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City or the trailhead. Some transportation is provided, but carpooling may be necessary as there is limited space in our vehicles. Hike leaders will contact participants via email before the hike to give directions and other information. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and pack a lunch/snack. Registration required. Note: Registration closes on February 16 at 8 a.m. Ages 18+

Whether you call them groundhogs or woodchucks, these burrowing creatures have plenty of surprises! Join us as we dig into their world to explore burrows, shadows, and the fun traditions of Groundhog Day through stories, crafts, and hands-on play. It’s a joyful way to celebrate the season while learning how these curious critters live. Registration required. Ages 3-6 years.

Did you know that jellyfish live in Missouri? Or that colonies of tiny moss creatures call our waters home? Dive into the hidden world of Missouri’s invertebrates as we explore the life cycles, anatomy, and quirky behaviors of cnidarians, crustaceans, and turbellarians. This program is open to all ages but is designed for ages 15 and up. Registration required. Please include a valid email address when you register so we can send you a virtual program link.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/curious-by-nature (adults) Growing native foods is a delicious, sustainable practice that connects us to nature. Discover the beauty and benefits an edible landscape provides at Prairie Birthday Farm in Kearney, Missouri. Meet farm steward, Linda Hezel, who transformed a degraded fescue lot into a thriving farm where science, art and food converge. Stick around for the live Q&A where you can ask your native edible plant questions.

Furry, feathered, scaly, or smooth? All animals have special characteristics that help them to thrive in their habitats. Learn all about the role these characteristics play in the survival of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Siblings are welcome. Please meet at the Stupp Center located near the corner of Arsenal and Grand.

Discover the amazing world of native bees that call Missouri home. Bees live in our yards and gardens, many times right under our noses providing essential pollinator power! Learn where native bees nest and what they require to thrive in your neighborhood. Registration required. Ages 16+.

Did you know the wasp was the original papermaker? Discover how these amazing creatures created paper and then try it yourself! From start to finish, you will make new paper from blending recycled newspapers, magazines, and other used paper items. Add natural objects such as seeds, leaves, snake skins and more to create works of art! Bring several magazines and a bath-size towel. All other materials are provided. Registration required. Ages 16+