Discover Nature Events

Curious about paddling Missouri's beautiful Ozark streams but not sure where to start? Our virtual Paddle Prep program is here to guide you every step of the way! Learn about the gear you'll need, trip planning, and helpful tips to navigate the streams with confidence. No prior experience? No problem! Let’s get you ready for an unforgettable adventure on the water! Participants will receive a link via e-mail a day before and the day of the virtual presentation.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/discover-native-gardening (adults) It's one thing to read about naive plants and another to get your hands dirty! Learn seasonal gardening skills, be empowered and grow community alongside native plant experts and enthusiasts. This month we'll identify and learn to manage spring native plants and cool season annuals. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Join us this month for Babes in the Woods: I'm a Little Tadpole! In this action-packed hour of fun, we will meet at the staging area by the outdoor bathrooms, then walk along Tanglevine Trail to our fishless pond to visit the tadpoles and frogs. We will learn about them, listen for their peeps and ribbits, and then serenade them with our song. This class is designed to get young children more connected with the natural world. After the program, expect to leave with a little dirt and a big smile. Remember to dress for the weather, even a little rain won't bother us or the frogs.

This program is hosted by the Powder Valley Nature Center on the second Tuesday of every month. Please feel free to join the librarian for story time inside afterwards.

Join us this month for Conservation Kids: I'm a Little Tadpole! In this action-packed hour of fun, we will meet at the staging area by the outdoor bathrooms, then walk along Tanglevine Trail to our fishless pond to visit the tadpoles and frogs. We will learn about them, listen for their peeps and ribbits, and then serenade them with our song. This class is designed to get young children more connected with the natural world. After the program, expect to leave with a little dirt and a big smile. Remember to dress for the weather, even a little rain won't bother us or the frogs.

This program is hosted by the Powder Valley Nature Center on the second Tuesday of every month.

Gather 'round and join us for a selection of nature stories perfect for all ages. Our storytellers will choose seasonal books to help inspire your next family adventure.

Between bird migration and songbird breeding season, Spring is one of the best times to go birding! Join a Runge naturalist for a leisurely, guided walk suitable for all experience levels and search for the many bird species at Runge. Binoculars and field guides are available for those that need them. Meet outside the nature center’s front doors. This program is all outdoors, so make sure to dress for the weather.

Join Ms. Ladybug as she reads a nature story and shares activities with your child. Ages 2 to 6. No registration required.

Registration required (ages 12+) We will invite a beekeeper to talk to us about bees (and other pollinators) and how to protect them. We will enjoy some tea with honey in it to experience the different flavors of honey. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Do your little ones enjoy being in nature? Appreciate the natural world through a story, songs, movement, and play as you sit under the canopy for a “nature” adventure. Come see the topic we are exploring this month. Younger children and siblings are welcome. Meet the naturalist at the West End Picnic Site. Please dress for the weather.

Love to hike and need ideas for some new trails? New to hiking and curious where to start? This program is for you! Central Missouri offers many opportunities for scenic hikes through diverse landscapes for all skill levels. Join Darin Hackmann, Runge volunteer and program hike leader, as he shares first-hand experience, photos and detailed information about local hiking trails, as well as tips about safety, gear, and clothing.