MDC invites public to explore remnant prairie Oct. 1 in Lawrence County

MOUNT VERNON, Mo. – The public is invited to explore and learn about remnant prairie in Mount Vernon with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC).

Before Missouri was settled, native prairies covered about one-third of the state. Today only about 0.5% of those original grasslands remain, usually as small tracts (remnants). Most native prairies have been plowed and planted with crops or cool-season grasses, making remnant prairies among the rarest types of habitats in the world.

MDC will host Last Light on Living Landscapes from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, at Mount Vernon Prairie, Lawrence 1150 in Mount Vernon.

Register at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/220465

This ecology walk will be sensory focused, and will include:

• Storytelling & Science with Naturalists: Uncover the secret life of a remnant prairie in autumn, from underground root survival strategies to the fascinating mechanics of seed dispersal.
• Golden-Hour Magic for Photographers: Capture sun-drenched moments as warm October light settles across towering, big bluestem, Indian grass, and late-season asters.
• Autumn Soundscapes: Pause and tune into the rich symphony of migrating songbirds, rustling grasses, and the cheerful chorus of fall insects.
• Nature Detective Work: Spot the curious "clues of October" - tracking seed heads, cozy wildlife hideouts, and the shifting shadows of early autumn sunsets.

Participants are encouraged to bring water, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, and/or a camera or phone to take photos. This is a relaxed, family-friendly outing designed for anyone who enjoys nature, photography, or simply being outdoors at the best time of day.

Learn more about remnant prairie and grasslands at mdc.mo.gov/your-property/improve-your-property/habitat-management/grassland-management/remnant-prairie.

To discover more events hosted by MDC, visit mdc.mo.gov/events.

MDC is committed to accessibility at all its nature centers, regional facilities, and conservation areas. To request an ADA accommodation for participation in MDC programs, visit mdc.mo.gov/accessibility.