Events

Agents of Discovery is at Powder Valley! This free to play mobile game lets you show off your nature knowledge to win prizes!

Come and learn beginner trapping, fur harvesting, and handling techniques from some of Missouri’s expert trappers and fur handlers. This two-day class will cover hands on techniques used by fur harvesters and land managers to trap Missouri’s Furbearers. Hands on activities will include techniques used in foothold, body grip, cable restraint, and other types of traps, demonstrations on how to properly skin and care for harvested fur, as well as activities designed to learn furbearer identification and best management practices. Lunch will be provided both days and a significant portion of time will be spent outdoors. This event is for ages 6 and above. Any participate from the age of 6-15 must be accompanied by an adult. If lodging is needed- discounted rates are available for participants at the Blue Springs Ranch. Contact 1-800-333-8007 for reservations.

Sip cocoa and get creative! Stop by the Busch Wildlife Classrooms for a variety of nature-inspired crafts. There will be something to build and take home for all ages! The classrooms will be open for art activities from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Please register all attending individually.

"Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is a natural oasis nestled within 112 acres of oak hickory forest near urban St. Louis. Join MDC Naturalist, Andy Klingensmith, for a guided hike as we explore and discover the natural wonders found throughout this unique conservation area. This program will touch on a range of ecology topics to deepen our appreciation of Missouri’s natural resources. Topics include plant and animal ID, natural history, ecological management, and conservation philosophy. Whether you’re a regular to Powder Valley, or someone looking for new hiking trails, join us as we discover the sights and sounds of Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center."

Get an up-close look at the fascinating feeding habits of Missouri venomous snakes! Join Powder Valley naturalists for the feeding of our captive snakes while learning more about the interesting lives of both copperheads and timber rattlesnakes. Open to all ages. No registration required.

Snakes have generated more fear and misunderstanding than any other group of animals. But this fear can be overcome, and Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center’s non- venomous ambassador snakes are here to help! During this program, get an up close and personal view of the different snakes found at Powder Valley while gaining a greater appreciation for these important members of Missouri’s ecosystems. Meet in the classroom at Powder Valley. Please register each person attending individually.

Who’s that hooting it up each December evening?? Owls that’s who. You will learn what makes them such effective nighttime hunters and why they hoot so much this time of year. We will then take a short walk and see if we can entice any owls to fly in and talk to us. Dress appropriately since we will be outside part of the time.

*Lesson 1 is not required to attend lesson 2*

Welcome to the first ever “All About Trout,” program put on in the St. Louis region. This is a Traditional fishing class, meaning we will be using traditional “Ultra-Light,” fishing gear and lures to fish for Rainbow Trout. If you are wanting to try Fly-Fishing, we have plenty of fly-fishing classes throughout the fall and winter months!

In Lesson one we will be introducing you to trout as a species, going over the history of trout in Missouri, the gear/techniques we use to catch them, the identification/use of trout bait, handling the trout, and hands on fishing.

In lesson two we go over Trout habitat, life cycle, wildlife regulations and their importance, the difference in ribboned trout streams/special use areas, fish handling overview, lure identification/use, and hands on fishing.

This is a fishing event in the cold fall/winter months! Be sure to come prepared with water, snacks, and very warm clothing (Winter jackets, pants, hats, etc.) Closed-toed shoes are required. Gloves are optional but highly recommended!

Join volunteer Pickett Lema for a beginner’s lesson into winter watercolors. This class will focus on techniques for winter landscapes and December holiday content.

Supplies will be provided.

*Lesson 1 is not required to attend lesson 2*

Welcome to the first ever “All About Trout,” program put on in the St. Louis region. This is a Traditional fishing class, meaning we will be using traditional “Ultra-Light,” fishing gear and lures to fish for Rainbow Trout. If you are wanting to try Fly-Fishing, we have plenty of fly-fishing classes throughout the fall and winter months!

In Lesson one we will be introducing you to trout as a species, going over the history of trout in Missouri, the gear/techniques we use to catch them, the identification/use of trout bait, handling the trout, and hands on fishing.

In lesson two we go over Trout habitat, life cycle, wildlife regulations and their importance, the difference in ribboned trout streams/special use areas, fish handling overview, lure identification/use, and hands on fishing.

This is a fishing event in the cold fall/winter months! Be sure to come prepared with water, snacks, and very warm clothing (Winter jackets, pants, hats, etc.) Closed-toed shoes are required. Gloves are optional but highly recommended!