Events

Copperheads conjure up curiosity, mystery, and even fear. In truth they are one of Missouri’s most intriguing and often least understood venomous snakes.

Dr. Ben Jellen has conducted a study of copperheads at Powder Valley Nature Center over a period of five years. Learn about his latest findings at this special virtual presentation.

Participants attending this virtual program must include a valid email address when registering for the program. A WebEx link will be sent to all registered participants 24 hours before the program.

Join our instructors as we learn the fundamentals of shooting archery. This program begins in the Education Center then moves to the static archery range. This is a fun program for the entire family, ages 9 and up

Put on your hiking shoes and join us for a guided hike of Spring Creek Gap Conservation Area (Maries County); 6 miles – difficult. 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+

Enjoy coffee and learning about birds? Join us at Shoal Creek Conservation Center for Birds and Brews! This partnership program gives anyone (14 years old and older) an opportunity to enjoy some bird friendly coffee and explore the world of spring bird migration through a short walk by Shoal Creek. The easy rated walk will be about a 1 mile long on some uneven trail surfaces. Bring your binoculars or a pair can be provided during the program. Registration is required. This event is hosted by the Missouri Department of Conservation, Ozark Gateway Audubon Chapter, and Wildcat Glades Nature Group.

Join us to discover the basics of responsible handgun ownership and the joys of shooting. We will cover safety, handgun nomenclature, sight picture, sight alignment, breath control, trigger squeeze, and much more. During the live fire portion, .22 handguns and ammunition will be provided. If you plan to use your own, bring a minimum of 50 rounds of new ammunition for your firearm. Make sure all firearms are unloaded before arriving at the range. There should be no live ammunition, or uncased firearms inside the classroom. Please leave all firearms in the vehicle until the class is dismissed including all concealed carry handguns and magazines.

Catch and Release fishing from Hatchery ponds. Event will be located at the Hatchery Office. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Fishing poles and lures will be provided for those that need them.

To sign up a child, you will have to click "Create an Account" for each child who plans to attend if they do not already have one. This account will be good for any future events as well. You may also add the child's account(s) to your "group account" for easier future management.

For questions or more information contact Blind Pony Hatchery at 660-335-4531.

Join us for the gift of wildflowers courtesy of Mother Nature. Hike a 3 ½ mile natural trail that loops through meadows, woods and along streams; or turn back after the first mile. A short stop will be made at the platform overlooking the Meramec River Valley where participants can turn back. We will stop, admire, and discuss the different flowers in bloom along the trail. Dress for the weather, wear appropriate footwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring water and snacks if desired. Meet in the parking lot at Myron and Sonya Glassberg Family Conservation Area.

With the icy winds of winter giving way spring wildflowers start to bloom. Join us at Saint Francois State Park for a hike along a 3.4 mile trail. This trail follows the Current River before climbing 300ft in elevation and looping back. Pack your lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery when we stop to eat. The difficulty of Swimming Deer Trail is moderately-difficult due to the 300ft elevation gain along the middle of the trail. Participants will meet at the nature center and carpool to the state park.

An early stage social engagement session for persons with early stage dementia and their care partner. Did you know that getting outdoors, interacting with nature, and learning new skills have shown to have positive benefits for individuals living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia? Join us at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 11, 2024 to learn the basics of birding. This session will include tips for using binoculars, ways to identify bird songs and how to use a field guide. This slow-paced, gentle walk will be held on the Farkleberry Knob Trail, a quarter-mile paved trail at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center in North County Park. We will also discuss how being outdoors can benefit those living with dementia and their caregivers. You may bring your own binoculars, or a pair will be provided for you.

This is a cooperative program with the Greater Missouri Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.

Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1

This first class includes instruction as well as hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing pole, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish.

All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen.

This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family.

To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.