Events

We will be distributing publications about fishing and native trees, maps of local areas to enjoy outdoor recreational activities at, and magazines! We will have our Recreation Specialist and Conservation Educator available to talk about places to hunt, fish, hike, and kayak as well as answer questions you may have!

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Our Discover Nature-Fishing program is a hands-on, four-part fishing instruction series that helps families gain the skills and confidence they need to go fishing on their own.

This program will cover lessons 3 and 4 which are best completed after lessons 1 and 2. Participants will learn about Missouri freshwater ecosystems, common fish, artificial lures, and the regulations regarding fishing in Missouri. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. We will host this program at the Cape Girardeau Conservation nature Center.

Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license and those who have already completed lessons 1 and 2 will receive fishing related rewards.

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center would like to invite your family and friends to our annual multicultural event. We will highlight Missouri’s diversity and showcase how different cultures enjoy nature. Enjoy live performances, food trucks, demonstrations, booths, short programs, crafts for kids, and lots of fun! All ages.

Lincoln County Conservation Agent Nicholas Bommarito and K-9 Bertie are one of nine canine/handler teams within MDC. They're tasked with enforcing laws related to conservation and public safety, assisting with search and rescue operations, and of course meeting Missouri's citizens. This is your opportunity to learn more about K-9 Bertie, her amazing abilities, and how she and Agent Bommarito protect our fish, forests, and wildlife.

The dogs in the Canine Unit have official commissions through the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Protection Branch.

Come to Powder Valley Nature Center on Friday, April 26 at 7 pm to meet Agent Bommarito and K-9 Bertie.

If weather permits, we will meet outdoors in the lower parking lot by Tanglevine Trail. In that case, bring a camp chair or blanket to sit on. In the case of inclement weather, the program will be moved to the auditorium.

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+

MDC and Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association is hosting a fly tying & fishing program directed toward catching pond bluegill. Program will consist of tying two types of flies, learning how to properly use a fly rod, and then doing some catch-and-release fishing. Instruction and equipment are provided at no cost by Missouri Department of Conservation & Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association during the workshop; but individuals may bring their own fly tying equipment if they wish. Space is limited to 15 participants and all participants must be 11 years or older (parent must accompany any participant ages 11-15). This workshop will be held at Marguerite Bray Conservation Area near Rolla on April 27 from 8 AM – 12 Noon. Participants 16 and older must possess a valid Missouri fishing permit.

Shooting a muzzleloader is an entirely different and fun way of shooting. Whether you want to extend your hunting season, shoot a muzzleloader shotgun or just get into the older way of shooting, this class is for you. In the class, we will discuss the different types of muzzleloaders, ammunition, equipment, and so much more. Come join the fun and learn how to get started in this interesting way of shooting.