Events

Are you interested in learning about black bear hunting in Missouri? This introductory class teaches you about Missouri black bears and what it takes to have a successful bear hunt. Topics included in this class are black bear biology, the permit application process, and general black bear hunting strategies. This class is suitable for Missourians trying to decide whether they should apply for a black bear hunting permit or those simply interested in learning more about black bear hunting.

A link for the program will be sent via email on the day of the course. Please make sure you check your Junk folder.

Kayaking is a great way to get outdoors and connect with nature. Join us as we learn about the equipment and techniques needed to kayak safely in Missouri before experiencing being on the water yourself. All kayaking equipment will be provided. Bring closed-toe shoes, a water bottle, and dress for the weather. Registration required for each paddler. Ages 12+

*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*

Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species.

Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations.

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.

Any time can be a great time to fish. Let's brush up on those fish-cleaning skills. This session will focus on cleaning scaled and skinned fish. We will look at some of the common equipment needed and common methods of cleaning these fish.

This meeting/program is open to the public. No registration required. Check out the group's Facebook page for the program topic.

Come join the boardgame club for nature lovers! This monthly program will begin with a short program highlighting a different nature-themed board game, and how it relates to Missouri’s mission to have world class fish, forests, and wildlife. After the intro…let the games begin! There will be games available for all experience levels, though on average these games have a higher complexity level than family board game players may be used to, these games are most appropriate for ages 12 and up. You are welcome to bring any snacks and non-alcoholic beverages you wish, as well as nature-themed board games to share from your collection.

MDC will provide a staffed atlatl range and equipment for youth and families to experience the joy of atlatl during the Montauk Mill Days at Montauk State Park. No registration required.

Join MDC naturalists and area birders as we discover the avian life that calls Runge home. These short birding walks are for all experience levels. We will gather near the front doors of the nature center. Binoculars and field guides will be provided for those that need them. Registration preferred. Ages 8+

The online "Official Missouri Prescribed Burn Course" must be completed before attending this event. You can register for the online portion here: https://www.hunter-ed.com/prescribedburn/

The online course has a $25 charge to a third-party host (not MDC) and can be completed in approximately 2 – 4 hours. Please bring your certificate of completion and mileage log to the workshop.

At this event, the participants will learn about burn equipment, burn line installation, safe weather parameters, ignition operations, and other techniques to safely conduct a prescribed burn. Participants will be outside for portions of the day and should dress for the weather and a short walk.

Lunch will be provided. Email the instructor with any dietary restrictions that we can try to accommodate.

Join us during your lunchtime for a virtual program on birds!

From heroic acts to being messengers, and symbols from good and bad, birds are important characters in legends, folklore, and mythology. Celebrate Migratory Bird Day by discovering the beauty and glory of birds in Missouri. Learn how their histories, personalities, and their influence has impacted how they are perceived and seen by mankind.

An email will be sent with the link a day before the program by noon. If you register after that time, another link will be sent the morning of the program to ensure everyone has the correct link to join.