Events

What better way to get refreshed for the new year than to watch the last sunset of this year before taking a quiet stroll in the crisp winter night at Columbia Bottom? Watch the sun set before we start our walk to the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. We will spend a few minutes at the confluence before we head back to our starting point.

Dress for the weather and bring a flashlight or lantern.

Meet at lot "L." Follow the signs along the gravel road as you take the 15-minute drive from the front gate to lot "L."

Sunset: 4:40pm. Moonrise: 9:23pm.

"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."

Join a naturalist to read stories about Missouri wildlife and get an up-close look at some of the animals in the stories. When the reading session is complete you are welcome to spend time on your own exploring the nature center and paved hiking trails.

Have you always wanted to get into the art of fly tying but do not know where to start? Join us for our 4-part fly tying series that will introduce you into the world of fly tying. You will learn about the basic tools, materials, and skills needed to get you rolling on tying your own flies. The materials used in this class will be provided however, if you would like to bring your own equipment, that is acceptable as well. Each class will build on the previous classes’ skills so attendance of all 4 classes is required. Each class will start at 6:00pm and will run for approximately 2 hours. The class will be held at the Education Center at the Jay Henges Shooting Range. The other three dates are January 11th, 18th and 25th.

Missouri is home to over 70 different species of mammals. Join us as we explore a few mammals that may seem relatively new to the Missouri landscape, including mountain lions, black bears, elk, and armadillos. We’ll discuss how these animals got here, or whether some may have always been here, and the impact they could have on the diversity of the state’s natural resources. This program will be held virtually.

Who’s that hooting it up each January 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!

Discover Dresser Island, a winter wildlife haven. We will hike 5 miles (with an option for 2 miles) along the Mississippi River in search of a variety of wildlife including eagles, pelicans, waterfowl, muskrats, deer, and many others. Please dress for the weather and remember to bring water and a packed lunch. Bring a camera and binoculars if desired. Participants and guides will meet at the Dresser Island Conservation Area parking lot off of Highway 94 near West Alton, MO.

*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!

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.