Discover Nature Events

Nature is such a versatile medium for crafting! It’s full of vibrant colors and unique textures and patterns. We will use nature as our inspiration as we create crafts from natural objects. We’ll provide the supplies; you bring the enthusiasm and creativity!

Discover the importance of Missouri reptiles and amphibians and see what it takes to keep our education animals happy and healthy. Bring your family and watch as we introduce and feed several different reptiles and amphibians.

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is a natural oasis nestled within 112 acres of oak hickory forest near urban St. Louis. Join MDC Naturalist, Andy Klingensmith, for a virtual hike as we explore and discover the natural wonders found throughout this unique conservation area. This program will touch on a range of ecology topics to deepen our appreciation of Missouri’s natural resources. Topics include plant and animal ID, natural history, ecological management, and conservation philosophy. Whether you’re a regular to Powder Valley, or someone looking for new hiking trails, join us as we discover the sights and sounds of Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center.

Bring the nature into your homes during the holidays with this fun program! Learn about some common backyard birds, then create felt ornaments to take home. Program will be indoors in the Stupp Center in Tower Grove Park.

Get a behind the scenes look at our Animal Care Room and learn how we care for our education animals. You’ll get a chance to feed some of our animal ambassadors and learn proper handling techniques. Our captive amphibians and reptiles have a big job to do and deserve the best care. Here’s your chance help while you learn about these amazing animals!

From slipping through the currents to belly flopping on the snow, these slippery sliders really know how to play! Tune in to discover the special features that allow these aquatic mammals to thrive in Missouri’s waterways.

This class is a series of 12 program that meets once each month all year long. You will learn simple, but beautiful, embroidery techniques as we explore some of the most iconic trees of southeast Missouri such as the bald cypress and white oak; as well as lesser-known trees like the cucumber magnolia, Ozark chestnut, and oaks and ashes native to our part of the state. Each block will feature a leaf with either its fruit or flower. At each class you will discover a new tree’s secret life history, habitat preferences, importance to wildlife and myriad uses by people through the ages.

By signing up you are committing to attend all 12 monthly sessions, with the opportunity to complete all 16 blocks for an entire quilt.

Classes will be held on the third Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center.

You will need to supply your own embroidery hoop and needle. We will have patterns, thread, light boards, and Frixion pens available for tracing the patterns.

Students will have a classroom session on waterfowl types, ecology and habits. They will also cover design tips and then actively participate in sketching and painting exercises. This class is more about things to consider or get better at than walking away with a finished drawing or painting. It is a primer to get students excited about entering the Jr Duck Stamp Competition. Participants should bring their own sketching paper and pencils. All painting supplies will be provided.