Events

Join an MDC naturalist for a hike centered around wildflowers. Learn about the different species, their historical uses, and enjoy the beauty that nature has to offer. This hike will take place on the Hickory Ridge trail on the short loop, which measures to be about 1/2 mile long. Wear good walking shoes, dress for the weather, and be prepared for some inclines and declines. Meet the naturalist at the frog statue in front of the nature center.

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

See live snakes at the Shoal Creek Center. 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.

Gather your family and friends to put your nature knowledge to the test! Questions will cover several topics, all with a nature twist. Teams will be limited to 6 participants. Each participant on your team must register separately. The minimum age to register is 12, but younger children are welcome to attend. Don’t have a full team? No worries, we can help you find a friendly group. Participants will be able to arrive 30 minutes early to set up their table. Bonus points will be given to the team with the best table theme and décor. Feel free to bring your own non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.

Join us for an early morning 5-mile hike at the Marais Temps Clair (MTC) Conservation Area. Birds are most active in the early morning hours. This a great time of the year for a hike to see what lives in the marsh habitat of MTC. Please dress for the weather and bring water, a lunch, and binoculars for bird viewing.

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.

Composting is the process of transforming organic scraps into nutrient rich garden fertilizer and it can start in your own kitchen! This talk will discuss the science of decomposition, common household methods and provide tips for getting started as well as preventing unwanted wildlife from visiting your compost pile. Extension Master Gardeners will be available for additional information.

Join us at the Nature Center as we celebrate National Trails Day! Stop by the front desk to pick up a question sheet, then take a self-guided hike along our scenic trails and play trivia along the way. All ages.

Prairie, prairie, quite contrary, how do your grasses grow? “Quite well,” the prairie answers. Prairies are home to some amazing wildflowers and grasses that make a beautiful natural garden. Learn about this amazing habitat on National Prairie Day, create some cool crafts and participate in prairie-themed activities to celebrate the day. Little Acorns programs are designed to help children ages 3-6 learn about the natural world through hands on experiences, crafts, and focused free-play activities.

Prairie, prairie, quite contrary, how do your grasses grow? “Quite well,” the prairie answers. Prairies are home to some amazing wildflowers and grasses that make a beautiful natural garden. Learn about this amazing habitat on National Prairie Day, create some cool crafts and participate in prairie-themed activities to celebrate the day. Little Acorns programs are designed to help children ages 3-6 learn about the natural world through hands on experiences, crafts, and focused free-play activities.