Events

Missouri is home to some amazing amphibians! Discover what makes these animals so special. Ongoing activities and crafts available will be available for all ages. No registration required.

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!

Mushrooms are a delight for animals and people alike! Explore the realm of the fungi and learn what role they play in our environment, and which may be a good addition to your dinner plate. Foray in the woods of Burr Oak Woods to follow presentation.

Learn the basics of beginner’s archery and practice your skills in a safe and open field with stationary targets. All equipment will be provided.

Please bring a personal water bottle and sunscreen.

Now that it is warm again bass fishing season is upon us. Learn how to approach spring and summer bass fishing from a former college angler and high school fishing coach.

Mushrooms and birds are some of the best things about spring! Join Mycological Society and Greater Ozarks Audubon member Dan Liles to explore our trails and identify fungi and birds. This 2-mile hike is rated easy to moderate difficulty. Dress for the weather.

Carnivore, Herbivore, or Omnivore? Let’s learn all about what, how, and why Missouri mammals are eating! Together we’ll investigate a few awesome animals, looking at their teeth, their habitat and their scat to determine what they might be eating. Afterwards, each participant will be able to make and accessorize their very own slime to take home inspired by one of the animals they learned about.

All materials will be provided, including disposable gloves for slime making. It is recommended to bring an old t-shirt or smock for slime making.

Please register each individual who will be making slime. Parents who will not be making their own slime do not need to register. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Would you like to learn how to cook outdoors using a dutch oven? This is the program for you! Samples will be provided but not enough for a meal.

Basic Handgun Workshop. Participants will learn handgun parts and operation, ammunition, handgun safety, and shooting fundamentals. Participants will receive one-on-one shooting instruction. This workshop and instruction is offered free of charge. Handguns and ammunition will be provided by MDC. Participants are welcome to bring their own unloaded, cased handguns but will be required to provide their own new factory ammunition (no reloads). This workshop is open to participants 18 and over. Teenagers age 14 to 17 may attend with a parent or guardian who is also registered for the workshop.

Come meet one of the ambassador snakes who calls Powder Valley home. Learn all about that species and hear about its journey of coming to live at the Nature Center. After the snake encounter, spend time enjoying the rest of the exhibits! An MDC naturalist and ambassador snake will be located inside the Nature Center lobby.