Saint Louis

*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*

Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. This includes how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks.

All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen.

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is home to an abundance of beautiful native plants which can inspire your creativity. Come outdoors to capture the russet hues of tall grasses and the gold of wildflowers. We supply all materials. Meet at the classroom building by taking the first road to the left after entrance gate. We plan to paint outside so please remember to dress for the weather and bring your water bottle! Finished size of banner is 22” x 25” with finished hem for a dowel insert to hang.

Now that the summer heat is gone, cooler September days remind us that it is time to visit Columbia Bottom to enjoy the colors of fall in the landscape. Learn about native plants growing near the visitor center and some of the birds frequently seen over the area.

Throughout history, nature has sparked the creativity of writers, poets, and philosophers—from Emerson to Thoreau. In this hands-on workshop, you'll explore how to turn your own observations of the natural world into powerful writing. We'll begin with simple exercises to sharpen your observation skills and try different approaches to writing about Missouri’s fish, forests, and wildlife. You'll respond to practice writing prompts individually, in pairs, and as a group, and then we’ll finish with a reflective hike—pausing along the trail to write in the beauty of nature.

Visit Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center's Art Gallery this month to view the work of artist Wiley Longmire.

Wiley is a landscape artist, a graduate of Kirkwood High School in May 1974, and earned his associate's degree in art from St. Louis Community College in May 1984.

Pond Management 101, Summer 2026

Save your spot! Registration is required for attendance!

Ever wanted to learn about pond ecosystems or aquatic system management in the Midwest? Well here is a great opportunity to learn from your local MDC Fisheries experts.

Target audience of the presentation is private pond owners, HOA aquatic resource managers, and public service providers. However everyone from the public is welcome to the join, however minors under 18 years of age, must be accompanied by an adult.

Topics will range widely from:

*This lesson is required for anyone wanting to take Lessons 2-4*

This beginning class involves hands-on instruction to teach new anglers basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spin-cast rod and reel, how to recognize and rig basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish.

Tiny Worlds, Big Lens: Insect Photography with your Cell Phone

Discover the incredible insect life thriving just beyond your doorstep.

Explore the fascinating world of native backyard insects with MDC Media Specialist Dan Zarlenga, together with Naturalist Christina Ritter, as they guide you through identifying beneficial species and understanding their role in a thriving ecosystem.

This skills session will satisfy part two of Missouri Hunter Education requirements. To obtain hunter education certification you must also attend part one (online, self-study, or a classroom session) and bring along your skills session qualifier certificate or a student manual with the review questions completed.

STUDENTS 15 AND UNDER MUST ALSO BRING A COPY OF THEIR BIRTH CERTIFICATE OR OTHER PROOF OF AGE.

This skills session will satisfy part two of Missouri Hunter Education requirements. To obtain hunter education certification you must also attend part one (online, self-study, or a classroom session) and bring along your skills session qualifier certificate or a student manual with the review questions completed.

STUDENTS 15 AND UNDER MUST ALSO BRING A COPY OF THEIR BIRTH CERTIFICATE OR OTHER PROOF OF AGE.