Events

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.

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

Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2

Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will be taught how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks.

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.

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.

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.

: Spring is a great time to forage for wild edibles! During this outdoor program, you will learn how to identify common wild edible plants and discover some ways to use them in recipes. Wear shoes for walking and dress for the weather as this will take place on the Runge trails.

Walk-in (ages 5+) The Discovery Center is joining multiple Kansas City area conservation partners in the City Nature Challenge, an international effort for people to find and document plants and wildlife in cities around the globe. Our kickoff is Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27. Participants will make observations by taking photos and uploading their observations using the free mobile app iNaturalist. The objective is to create a snapshot of the biodiversity that can be found around the metro area! Naturalists will be at the Discovery Center on Friday and Saturday to assist you. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.