Events

Celebrate the dog days of summer by learning about Missouri’s wild dogs. Are you as clever as a fox or as crafty as a coyote? Join us for a howling good time as we discover more about the lives of these canine friends through interactive play. Babes in the Woods programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and toddlers ages 0–2 years to the sights, sounds, and textures of nature.

This class will be the complete guide to using all methods of bow and arrow including, long bow, compound, crossbow, and atlatl and more. We will shoot each method in hunting like situations, be prepared to be outside for this class.

Meet one of the smallest turtles in North America, the eastern musk turtle. This tiny turtle spends most of its time under water and is seldom seen. We will take an in-depth look at this pint-sized reptile and find out why it is sometimes called a stinkpot. Participants will receive the virtual program link at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the program. Please ensure your MDC account includes an accurate email address so that you can receive this link.

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

Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species.

Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations.

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.

This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family.

To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.

Registration required (adults) Grab your walking shoes and join this hike through the Columbus Park and River Market neighborhoods. Covering roughly three miles, this moderately paced hike will utilize sidewalks to explore nature in these older neighborhoods. During the hike we will discuss native and invasive plants, wildlife ID, hiking safety and other great urban hikes in KC. The instructor will e-mail the exact meeting location to participants the week prior to the hike. You will receive an e-mail from the instructor if weather conditions indicate a need to cancel the program. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

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

Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species.

Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations.

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.

This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family.

To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Our Discover Nature-Fishing program is a hands-on, four-part fishing instruction series that helps families gain the skills and confidence they need to go fishing on their own.

This program will cover the Discover Nature-Fishing Lessons 1 and 2, which are best to complete before Lessons 3 and 4 (hosted later). Participants will learn about fishing equipment, casting, rigging a fishing rod, baiting a hook, and proper fish handling. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. This program will take place at the lake in the Sikeston Recreational Complex. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license for this program.

Do you have an interest in in shooting archery or bow hunting? In this class we will cover all the fundamentals of purchasing and caring for you bow.

Deer hunting is challenging and rewarding at the same time. It’s not just about getting dressed up in camouflage and climbing in a deer stand or ground blind. It starts long before opening day. This class will start at the beginning. In this class, we will discuss rifle/ammo selection, dressing for the hunt, methods of hunting, scouting, animal identification, sighting in your rifle, and more. This is not a shooting class.

Summer is truly in full swing! Take a break from the heat to enjoy the water on scenic Lake Girardeau. This program is an opportunity to get your friends or family out on the water. Participants will receive basic instruction and then borrow one of our canoes for a morning on the lake. We will not be paddling as a group and your party may go at their own pace. MDC staff will be on the water to assist in emergencies. If you wish to bring your own fishing supplies and have a valid permit you are welcome to fish during your time on the water. Meet at the Lake Girardeau west boat launch off county road 383. Failure to arrive by 9:00 will forfeit your reservation. Canoes, paddles, lifejackets and safety equipment will be provided. Please only register 1 person to reserve a canoe. Canoes hold up to 2 Adults and 1 child. Please no pets or alcohol.