Events

Come check out this month's artist spotlight, Patricia Littlefield, in our lobby. Patricia is a lifelong resident of Cape Girardeau and her passion for nature shines through in her display. She primarily works with graphite and colored pencils to create breathtaking drawings of Missouri's finest creatures. Artwork will remain up through the end of March.

Keep an eye out for book pages posted along Runge's Naturescape trail and enjoy a story as you walk and explore! Book begins at the trailhead across from the parking lot. No registration required. All ages.

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is pleased to feature local photographer Anita Kensler in our art gallery hall in March of 2026.

"In 2020, schools closed for the second half of the school year due to the spread of Covid-19. The unexpected pause gave me the opportunity to reconnect with a long-forgotten passion- photography.

During my outings, I discovered that sitting quietly beneath an eagle's nest, I could observe and photograph them from a remarkably close perspective. Ospreys also came within range as I could paddle quietly to their preferred perches. I loved being able to combine two passions- kayaking and photography- into one meaningful experience.

In 2021, I retired from teaching which allowed me to devote even more time to my craft. I now spend many more hours photographing eagles at Simpson and George Winter Lakes. I have developed a deep appreciation for the wolves at the Endangered Wolf Center, where I am continually inspired by their beauty and presence. Additionally, I regularly photograph Lone Elk drawn by the incredible variety of wildlife found there."

Anita Kensler's work will be featured from March 3rd through March 31st. To see her exhibit, please visit us Tuesday through Saturday during open hours from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Discover what’s for dinner at Burr Oak Woods as the nature center’s amphibians, fish, and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. The snakes are fed on the second and fourth Wednesday (March 11 & 25).

Join us for Spring Break Guided Hatchery Tours at the beautiful new Conservation Education Center! Tours are held Tuesday through Saturday at 11AM and 1PM. Tours will begin inside at the large Trout Aquarium and then move outside to the raceways. Tours last approximately 30-40 minutes. No registration required.

What should you do if you encounter a baby animal in the wild? Stop by this discovery table to learn why leaving them alone is often the best choice and how young animals grow and survive. All ages. No registration required. Call 417-888-4237 for more information.

Zachary Fischer is a local artist whose whimsical, detailed metal sculptures transform discarded tools, rusted steel, and forgotten objects into playful folk art. His work blends rugged craftsmanship with a playful spirit, reminding viewers that beauty can be found in unexpected places. His nature-inspired work is on display through April. No registration required. All ages

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

Join Powder Valley’s naturalists for a Tuesday morning hike. Getting a weekly dose of nature is healthy for your mind and body. On these guided hikes we will explore the vastness of Missouri fauna and flora on the trails. Join us every week to get your nature boost!

This week we will be hiking Teszar Woods Conservation Area. This area follows a section of the Meramec River near Arnold Missouri. We will meet at the Flamm City Access located at 1100 Telegraph Rd, Arnold, MO 63010.

Dive into the world of rivers and discover why they are such an important part of our ecosystem. Through hands-on activities and simple exploration, children will learn about the animals and plants that depend on rivers and how we can all share and care for these special places. Registration Required. Ages 3-6 years.