Events

Artwork on display in lobby.

Agents of Discovery is a mobile app game that takes your visit to Runge to another dimension! As an Agent, your mission is a scavenger hunt played on your phone to discover different things animals do in spring. Explore the exhibits in the nature center to find QR codes with info and questions about animals. Find all the QR codes in the scavenger hunt and answer all questions to win. Then come to the front desk to claim your prize! No registration required. All ages

Raised on a farm in the Missouri river bottoms, Dan Brueggeman developed an early appreciation of wildlife and the out-of-doors. It wasn't until 1984 that the artist encountered his future vocation, when he met a decoy carver and was fascinated by the amount of realism obtainable in wood sculpture. Dan's first decoy, although it bears little resemblance to today's works, is still the most prized piece in his collection. In addition to the original waterfowl, Dan has expanded his focus to encompass songbirds, fish, game birds, mammals and raptors. He has been honored with numerous awards, including several "Best of Show" awards. His carvings currently grace many private and corporate art collections. The exhibition is located in the west wing at Runge and can be viewed through June 30, 2024.

From artist Terry Martin: "I was fortunate to grow up in Missouri, where there were lakes, streams, and rivers to explore. Mine is a state with a premier conservation effort! I had a bicycle and a fishing rod (a fortunate son!). As a boy, I was up at daylight each day and home when it got dark. I developed more and more of an interest in the wildlife and geography of my surroundings. I discovered artists like John James Audubon, Roger Tory Peterson, Maynard Reece, and fellow Missourian Charles W. Schwartz. Also of great influence were naturalists John Muir, Marlin Perkins, and Robert Bateman."

Terry Martin's art will be on exhibit in the Runge lobby until April 30. No registration required. All ages

River Region Photography Association presents "The Visions of Nature."

The members of the R.R.P.A. enjoy spending time in the natural areas of Missouri, photographing the flora, fauna and landscapes that make the state unique. Please enjoy their visions, then go out and enjoy your own piece of nature.

Stop by anytime this month to see this exhibit.

Discover what’s for dinner at Burr Oak Woods as the captive amphibians, fish, and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. The snakes are fed on the second and fourth Wednesday (April 10 & 24).

Discover what’s for dinner at Burr Oak Woods as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. The snakes are fed on the second and fourth Wednesday (Apr 10th & 24th).

Sure, you’ve done a wildflower hike, but this could be your first wildflower float! Join us on Big Creek and the St Francis River near Sam A. Baker State Park for a unique way to experience spring. Knowledgeable guides will help you explore this small, clear creek and learn a little about the bounty of spring wildflowers blooming along the stream in this spectacular landscape. All skill levels are welcome; however, the upper part of this creek is often shallow and may require walking some sections. Transportation is provided from the nature center and a full itinerary and packing list will be provided prior to the trip via email. Please dress for the possibility of getting wet and bring appropriate water shoes, a bottle of water, and a pack lunch. Weather and river levels in spring may change the exact details of the float.

Put on your hiking shoes and join us for a guided hike of the Karst and Grasslands Trails at Rock Bridge Memorial Park (Boone County); 4 miles – moderate. Meet at Runge Nature Center or the trailhead. Some transportation is provided, but carpooling may be necessary. Hike leaders will contact participants before the hike to give directions if needed. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and pack a lunch/snack. Registration required. Ages 18+