Events

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.

Do you have a burning wildlife question? Ask a highly trained Powder Valley naturalist in-person.

Snakes are one of the most highly misunderstood and feared animals in nature. Learn how to distinguish venomous from non-venomous species for our Missouri Species, and dispel some of the popular myths you may have heard. Having the ability to know the difference between venomous and non-venomous can help dissipate your fear of these amazing creatures. Learn about Missouri Snakes and gain an appreciation for these misunderstood reptiles and make a fun craft afterwards!

Walk-in (all ages) Come celebrate Missouri's native plants! Join us for a day of learning about the wide variety of native plants that can suit your landscaping needs. Explore easy ways to plant native seeds of grasses and flowers. Discover how our native trees can add long-lasting value and beauty to your landscape. Marvel at how Missouri's wildlife benefits from native plants. We will be giving away free native plant and tree seedlings for you to take home and plant. Stick around for a guided landscape tour along with opportunities to ask experts for advice on how to improve your landscape with native plants. There will be activities for the whole family! If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.