Virtual Events

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/curious-by-nature (adults) Could the key to more successful prairie restorations be hidden beneath our feet? Explore the fascinating world of native Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) with Dr. Liz Koziol of the University of Kansas. Her research focusses on how restoring AMF improves floristic quality, increases native plant diversity and helps suppress weeds in new prairies. Learn how prairie restoration projects at Big Bull Creek Park and Shawnee Mission Park are contributing to groundbreaking long-term research on AMF application methods. We'll dig into the role of soil microbial communities, discuss practical approaches for reintroducing naive AMF and review the first two years of results from experimental prairie plots.

Curious about dipping your toe in the water of paddle sports but not sure where to begin? Join MDC staff for this two-part series that will provide all the needed information and confidence to experience the water yourself! Thursday evening, meet with a naturalist virtually to learn the equipment, techniques and logistics. Then, meet the group Friday morning to spend the day paddling on the Niangua River. Runge will provide round-trip transportation from the nature center and all equipment. Pack a water bottle, lunch and closed-toed shoes. Registration for this program implies attendance at both Thursday and Friday’s sessions.

In the mid-1900s, it was presumed the black bear population across the state of Missouri had completely disappeared. Now, thanks to re-introduction and conservation efforts, the black bear population is on the rise! Join us for this virtual program to learn more about black bears, their history in Missouri, and what’s being done today to preserve these majestic mammals. Registration required. Be sure to include your email address. The presenter will send the program link both the day before and one hour before the program begins. This program’s content is geared toward adult audiences, but all ages are welcome to register!

Are you wild about beetles? So is Naturalist Jordi Raos! Discover the fascinating world of beetles and explore various species of Coleoptera that inhabit our state. All ages. Registration required. Please include a valid email address when you register so we can send you a virtual program link. This link will be sent the week of the program. This program will not be recorded.

Got a new scope for deer season? Have questions on mounting it? This class will teach you the tools, techniques, and basics of mounting and setting up your new scope properly!

This live and interactive program gives an introduction to the Stream Team Program for prospective and new volunteers.

During the session, we will cover:

What Stream Team is and how you can get involved

How to register and create or join a team

How to report your service activities

Where to find events and opportunities near you

The link to the meeting will be sent out the day of the event.

Stream Team is committed to providing equal access to all educational programs. If you need an accommodation for a disability, please contact StreamTeam@mdc.mo.gov at least two business days before the scheduled program.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/curious-by-nature (adults) Adding hardscape to your landscape can create visual cohesion and provide practical opportunities to maintain your garden. Join Kyle Johnson of Bur Oak Ventures, for a practical approach to basic natural stone hardscape design and installation. In this Curious by Nature episode, we'll learn more about how to DIY small stone walls, dry creek beds, flagstone foot paths and more.

Bow Hunting: This course is designed to help you prepare yourself with a session on bow hunting gear, proper clothing, stands, calls, and techniques to improve your chances of success. We will discuss best bow hunting practices, safety and how bow hunting differs from hunting deer with a rifle. This is a beginner's program. The link to join this class will be sent the morning of the class. Be sure to check your Spam or Junk box for the email. If an email is not received, please send an email to the instructor to let them know.

Southwest Missouri offers lots of opportunities to fish and enjoy the outdoors. This virtual river fishing clinic will focus on fishing for bass species in our local waterways! We will talk about locations to fish, strategies, equipment, rules and regulations, and how to catch different species of bass. Your full name is required at registration along with a viable email address as we will be sending you the link to log into the class the day of. Class will be available ten minutes prior to start time for log-in. Feel free to email me if you have any questions!

Have you ever wondered about the butterflies in your neighborhood? Can you identify these beautiful creatures from one another? Butterflies bring an array of bright colors that flutter amidst our summer sky. Learn about these winged jewels through an ID quiz and identification techniques for common species that are found throughout Missouri. Gain great tips on how to attract these pollinators to your backyards.

An email with link will be sent 24 hours before the presentation. Please be sure to check your email