Events

Some of Missouri’s most fascinating herptiles are active now that spring is here. Midland brown snake and three-toed box turtle disagree about how some people treat amphibians and reptiles. Come hear what they talk about with American toad, bullfrog, and their friends. See if you can figure out why their opinions are different. No registration required. All ages

Some of Missouri’s most fascinating herptiles are active now that spring is here. Midland brown snake and three-toed box turtle disagree about how some people treat amphibians and reptiles. Come hear what they talk about with American toad, bullfrog, and their friends. See if you can figure out why their opinions are different. No registration required. All ages

Discover Nature - Fishing Lessons 1 & 2:

Lesson 1: “Equipment, Casting and Proper Fish Handling” combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn how to properly and safely operate a spin cast fishing rod. Participants will also learn the parts of a fishing rod, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish.

Lesson 2: “How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook” combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks.

Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided.

Ages 7 and above. All children ages 7-15 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Participants DO NOT need a fishing permit to fish during this program.

Each participant will need to register for this program individually on the Missouri Department of Conservation Discover Fishing website.

Please contact the Community Education Assistant, Lance Lewis with questions.

Lance.Lewis@mdc.mo.gov

Do you love biking… and birding? Then this program is for you. Join us as we go for a leisurely ride to look for birds on Mokane Road in Callaway County, just north of Jefferson City. Mokane Road is one of the top birding hotspots in Central Missouri. This program is for birders of all experience levels. We will meet at Carl R Noren Access before carpooling to our starting point. Binoculars, bikes, and helmets will be provided for all that need them. Make sure to bring a water bottle. Participants under the age of 18 attending the program without an adult (18+) will need a signed permission form to take part in the program. Registration required. Ages 15+

“ . . . and fish is fish and that’s that!” So writes Leo Lionni in his classic book, Fish Is Fish. We will explore their watery world this month through crafts, activities, and a story. Registration required. Ages 3-6.

Missouri Prairie Foundation board member Jane Haslag and native plant enthusiast Bill White will offer insight on adding native plants to your landscaping. Whether you are interested in promoting pollinators, having a more sustainable yard, or are just wanting the beauty of native plants, you will find answers to your questions in this program. Participants will receive an e-mail with a link to the program both the day before and an hour before the presentation begins. Registration required. All ages

Love them, loathe them or just curious? Snakes are fascinating creatures living in Missouri’s outdoors and perhaps because of how they look or behave, they have been given a bad rap. Discover why snakes are important, and awesome, in this slithery program. No registration required. All ages

Invasive animals are species not native to Missouri and that cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. Join us virtually in learning all about animals that have been introduced and cause harm in Missouri. Registration required. All ages invited, however, material covered is geared for adults. Discussions will be about the animals themselves, not the management practices of these animals. Be sure to include your email address in your registration. Presenter will email the program link to participants both the day before and day of the program. Registration required. All ages

Raised on a farm in the Missouri river bottoms, Dan Brueggeman developed an early appreciation of wildlife and the out-of-doors. It wasn't until 1984 that the artist encountered his future vocation, when he met a decoy carver and was fascinated by the amount of realism obtainable in wood sculpture. Dan's first decoy, although it bears little resemblance to today's works, is still the most prized piece in his collection. In addition to the original waterfowl, Dan has expanded his focus to encompass songbirds, fish, game birds, mammals and raptors. He has been honored with numerous awards, including several "Best of Show" awards. His carvings currently grace many private and corporate art collections. The exhibition is located in the west wing at Runge and can be viewed through June 30, 2024.

Join us for a family fishing day in the park! Fishing poles, tackle, bait, and instruction will be provided. This is a great opportunity for anyone you know who is interested in fishing but does not have the gear to do so. Anyone is welcome. Stop by to grab a fishing pole and start fishing!