Events

"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.

Deer from Hide to Rawhide: First steps toward buckskin leather

Our ancestors utilized deer hides for making clothing, containers, musical instruments, shelter and more. Learn how to flesh, scrape, stretch, and dry your deer hide to make rawhide. At this 3 hr. hands-on workshop, you will bring and work with a deer hide you harvested. We will have demonstration hides in various stages for you to learn from also.

Wear old clothes and bring a rubber apron, if you have one. A heavy trash bag can be used in place of an apron. If you have a fleshing knife, bring it along. We will have fleshing knives and beams available for use during the program. You will take home plans to build a simple fleshing beam and frame. You will need to purchase a fleshing knife and other simple materials to complete and stretch your hide at home.

After harvest, skin your deer and remove any excess flesh (meat) from the hide. Place hide in a leakproof bag and freeze. Instructions for soaking and preparing your hide for the class will be emailed to prior to the class. Hides must have a valid Conservation ID Number or Telecheck Confirmation Number accompanying them.

Participants 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

This class is a series of 12 programs that meets once each month all year long, though you may join at any time. You will learn to use simple, but beautiful embroidery techniques to stitch quilt blocks of some of the iconic plants, animals, and birds of the Missouri Ozarks- such as black bears, a cardinal, and butterfly milkweed. At each class you will learn about one of the plants/ animals and it history, habitat preferences, and its importance to the Missouri Ozarks. Classes will be held on either the first or second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm at the Ozark Regional Office Building in West Plains. At 551 Joe Jones Blvd West Plains MO, 65775. The thread colors needed that month. Block templates and information cards will be provided at the class.

Join MDC Private Land Conservationist Rachel Settle for a workshop focused on utilizing prescribed fire to manage habitat for deer, turkey, quail, pollinators, and other wildlife. Learn about the history of fire in Missouri and how fire can be implemented safely to meet wildlife habitat objectives. Resources for prescribed burning will also be discussed including cost-share programs, training, and Prescribed Burn Associations.

This is not the Prescribed Burning for Missouri Land Managers course and will not offer prescribed burn certification.

Nature is a gift, but it also provides some great materials for making gifts! Join us as we create a nature-inspired craft to present to a loved one during this season of giving. Registration required. Ages 3-6.

Nature is such a versatile medium for crafting! It’s full of vibrant colors and unique textures and patterns. We will use nature as our inspiration as we create crafts from natural objects. We’ll provide the supplies; you bring the enthusiasm and creativity!

Deer from Hide to Rawhide: First steps toward buckskin leather

Our ancestors utilized deer hides for making clothing, containers, musical instruments, shelter and more. Learn how to flesh, scrape, stretch, and dry your deer hide to make rawhide. At this 3 hr. hands-on workshop, you will bring and work with a deer hide you harvested. We will have demonstration hides in various stages for you to learn from also.

Wear old clothes and bring a rubber apron, if you have one. A heavy trash bag can be used in place of an apron. If you have a fleshing knife, bring it along. We will have fleshing knives and beams available for use during the program. You will take home plans to build a simple fleshing beam and frame. You will need to purchase a fleshing knife and other simple materials to complete and stretch your hide at home.

After harvest, skin your deer and remove any excess flesh (meat) from the hide. Place hide in a leakproof bag and freeze. Instructions for soaking and preparing your hide for the class will be emailed to prior to the class. Hides must have a valid Conservation ID Number or Telecheck Confirmation Number accompanying them.

Participants 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Nature is such a versatile medium for crafting! It’s full of vibrant colors and unique textures and patterns. We will use nature as our inspiration as we create crafts from natural objects. We’ll provide the supplies; you bring the enthusiasm and creativity!

Enrich your life by nature immersion! Enjoy learning the science of sound and how we can use nature sounds as therapy before we head outside to try it on the trail. Dress for the weather to stay warm on a 15-45 minute walk depending on how cold it is outside.