Get MO Wild at MDC’s free fall outdoors festival Sept. 30 in Lee’s Summit

Kansas City, Mo. – As autumn begins, head outdoors at the free Get MO Wild Fall Fest from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30, at the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area in Lee’s Summit. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and partners will have nature exhibits, demonstrations, food trucks, and the chance to try a variety of outdoor skills. All activities are free. Experts will assist newcomers with outdoor skills such as archery, fishing, and climbing a rock wall.

“We have teamed up with our great partners to provide individuals of all ages a fun-filled day enjoying demonstrations and popular outdoor activities,” said Chris Blunk, MDC district supervisor.

MDC and partners will have activity stations set up at the Reed Area’s Catclaw and Cottontail lakes. Fishing tackle and bait will be provided by MDC or anglers can bring their own gear. MDC staff and volunteers will assist new anglers with fishing and handling their catch. Visitors can try out target archery and pellet guns with coaching from staff. They can also learn how to throw the atlatl dart, an ancient tool used by our human ancestors for hunting.

All ages are welcome at this family-friendly event. Food trucks will be onsite. More than a dozen conservation partners will have exhibits, activities, and demonstrations. Ducks Unlimited (DU) will give free Greenwing memberships to youths. Nature exhibits or wildlife displays will be provided by groups such as the Missouri River Bird Observatory, Burroughs Audubon Society, and Wild Souls Animal Rehab. Nathan’s Catch will give away free rods and reels and tackle boxes to children at the fishing activity.

MDC’s Reed Area is at 12405 S.E. Ranson Road. For more information about Get MO Wild Fall Fest, call MDC’s Kansas City Regional Office at 816-622-0900. For information about the Reed Area, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z9j.