Newton

See live snakes at Schifferdecker Park. Most snakes in Missouri are harmless and play an important role in our ecosystems. Join us to learn more about these often-misunderstood reptiles and see snakes in person. Conservation in the Parks is a partnership event hosted by Joplin Parks and Recreation, Missouri Department of Conservation, and Wildcat Glades Nature Group.

Lighting up the summertime night sky are hundreds of magical beetles putting on a beautiful light show! Join us for Little Acorns: Firefly Magic to learn about these glowing bugs and make a firefly craft to take home!

Join MDC staff and live snakes as they visit McDonald County Library at Pineville during their summer reading program, “Adventure Begins at Your Library” to learn more about these often-misunderstood reptiles.

Join MDC staff and live snakes as they visit McDonald County Library at Southwest City during their summer reading program, “Adventure Begins at Your Library” to learn more about these often-misunderstood reptiles.

Join MDC staff and live snakes as they visit Cedar County Library at Stockton during their summer reading program, “Adventure Begins at Your Library” to learn more about these often-misunderstood reptiles.

Enjoy coffee and learning about birds? Join us at Shoal Creek Conservation Center for Birds and Brews! This partnership program gives anyone (14 years old and older) an opportunity to enjoy some bird friendly coffee and explore the world of spring bird migration through a short walk by Shoal Creek. The easy rated walk will be about a 1 mile long on some uneven trail surfaces. Bring your binoculars or a pair can be provided during the program. Registration is required.

Nighttime can be noisy this time of year! Join us for Little Acorns to learn all about the critters of the night and the noises they make. You will also make a craft to take home with you.

Spring is a great time to get out and look for birds, both migratory and the ones that nest here year-round! Although some just pass through Missouri, many nest right here in Joplin. Join us to look for birds of all kinds and the signs of their nests at Mercy Park. Conservation in the Parks is a partnership event hosted by Joplin Parks and Recreation, Missouri Department of Conservation, and Wildcat Glades Nature Group. Registration is required with the Wildcat Glades Nature Group. Best for ages 5 and up.