Events

Come learn the basics of outdoor cooking and fire starting! We will learn a few campfire recipes and cook our own lunch on the fire. While we wait, sip some cocoa, and relax by the fire. Please dress for the weather and bring a folding chair and water bottle.

Please register each person attending individually. If you have any food allergies we should be aware of, please email instructor.

You harvested a deer, field dressed it, and have it ready to process for the table.This event will provide instruction on how to make burger and sausage out of venison. We will discuss how to grind and season your harvest to make it into tasty burgers and sausage. This program will be held in the Busch Shooting Range classroom.

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 walk on the Short Loop of the Fallen Oak Trail and see if we can entice any owls to fly in and talk to us. Please dress for the weather and bring a flashlight.

*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!

Bring the nature into your homes during the holidays with this fun program! Learn about some common backyard birds, then create felt ornaments to take home. Program will be indoors in the Stupp Center in Tower Grove Park.

Experience the sounds of the night during a moderate hike at the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area. We will hike the Busch Hiking/Biking Trail which is approximately 3 ½ miles in length. We may hear coyotes howling, and also hear 2 or 3 species of owls calling their mates. Please dress for the weather and bring a flashlight.

Learn more about the majestic Oak tree while making mini Acorn Cap Candles.

We will use natural items to make these mini candles that can be used as floating candles, holiday decorations, and fire starters.

Registration required.

*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!

Bundle up and meet us at August A Busch Memorial Conservation Area, as we take our nature journals out for a Winter Walk on the Fallen Oak Trail, just in time for the Winter Solstice later in the week. We will begin in the classroom to talk about phenology, or seasonal changes, and how we can document that using nature journaling to be more mindful of nature through seasons in Missouri. All materials will be provided.

This program is a part of our Women in the Woods series, focused on women coming together and learning and using outdoor skills. This is a judgement free program open to people of all experience levels, identities, and backgrounds.

"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."