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Discover how to read a topographic map and how to use a compass during this interactive program. You can bring your own compass or use one of ours. Dress for the weather as there will be an outdoor component after an indoor introduction to the map and compass. Registration required. Ages 6+

Learn how to create a worm bin using little red wigglers. Feed your garbage to the worms, put the resulting compost in your garden, and finally, use the little worms for fish bait! Registration required. Ages 6+

Bizz-zz-z…chaz-zz-z…brez-zz-z….gazzee-e. What’s all that noise? It’s the “Boisterous Bugs” getting ready for their show in Runge’s puppet theatre! When you come to their performance, you will meet grasshopper, cricket, and their friends, and discover why they are creating so much music. No registration required. All ages

From the magnificent monarch to the superb swallowtails, butterflies are among the most recognizable and beautiful insects. Discover what makes a butterfly, a butterfly, what species may be observed in Missouri, and some simple steps to attract these wonderful creatures to your backyard. Be sure to include your email address with your registration. Registered participants will receive the program link both the day before and day of the program via email. Registration required. All ages

Spend the day with Runge naturalists as we paddle and explore the Missouri River from the Carl R Noren Access to Moreau River Access (up the Moreau River), a distance of approximately 7 miles. Runge will provide round trip transportation from the nature center, kayaks, paddles, and personal floatation devices. Pack a water bottle, lunch, snacks, and a pair of closed-toe shoes that can get wet.

Learn the basics of fly fishing! Discover how fly fishing differs from conventional fishing, equipment needed, and how to cast. We will then move to the lake to try and catch a fish or two. Bring a water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. All fishing equipment will be provided. Participants 16 – 64 years old will need a valid State of Missouri Fishing License. This program will take place at Jaycee (County Lake) Park in Jefferson City. Registration required. Ages 12+

Get up close and personal as we explore macro photography. Whether you are using a specialty camera or a cell phone, macro photography is a great way to observe and capture images of small subjects such as flowers and insects. After learning more about macro photography, we will head outside to see what types of images we can capture. Macro photography lens kits for cell phones will be available for participants to borrow. Registration required. Ages 7+

Bumble bees are one of the most recognizable groups of insects in Missouri. Discover the importance of, and how to conserve these amazing insects. Learn what it takes to identify some of the common species before we venture outside to try and observe bumble bees at Runge. Registration required. Ages 7-12

Someone has been visiting Runge at night! Help solve the mystery of our secret visitor by using clues they left behind. Find the animal culprit and earn your Nature Detective badge! Registration required. Ages 3-6

Someone has been visiting Runge at night! Help solve the mystery of our secret visitor by using clues they left behind. Find the animal culprit and earn your Nature Detective badge! Registration required. Ages 3-6