Events

In partnership with the Greater Ozarks Audubon Society, we bring you Wildlife Photographer Noppadol Paothong. He will focus on how to take better impact photographs that tell a story and give tips and personal decisions on how to create images that go beyond just a snapshot.

A great day for the whole family to enjoy! Kids ages 15 and under will be able to fish in an adult free zone during the whole day. There will also be free outdoor activities, educational activities, and much more for the families to enjoy! For more information contact Roaring River hatchery staff. 471-847-2430.

Learn some birding basics, including how to use binoculars properly, and get some identification tips. We'll start with a short presentation in the classroom and then hit the trails to look for birds.

Join us as we explore the Nature Center grounds in search of the stuff animals leave behind. We'll start in the classroom to learn about tracks and scat before hitting the trails. Please wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, bug spray is also suggested. Ages 12-17. Registration required.

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.

Fly in to learn how and why birds migrate to and from Missouri every spring. Conservation Kids is designed for kids ages 7–12 and their adult caregivers. Other aged siblings are welcome to attend as families will do activities together.

Join Naturalist Morgan Wyatt to discover which hummingbirds visit Missouri, their habits, which plants attract them, and the best ways to maintain hummingbird feeders. Naturalist Notes is a regular program where a naturalist showcases one of their favorite nature topics. Please include a valid email address when you register so we can send you a virtual program link. All ages welcome but this program is designed for ages 10 and up.

Learn about common spring flowers and head out on the trail to find some.

Learn about common spring flowers and head out on the trail to find some.

Join us as we traverse the Blue Loop trail on the White River Valley Traill system at Table Rock Lake State Park. This 3-mile trail is rated moderate in difficulty. Please wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring trekking poles or a hiking stick if you have one. Bring lunch and a water bottle. Meet at the Nature Center and carpool.