MDC to host Youth Pollinator Event Feb. 27 at A.L. Gustin Golf Course

COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will partner with the Mid-Mo. Uplanders Quail Forever Chapter and A.L. Gustin Golf Course in Columbia, for a family friendly event designed to showcase pollinator habitat at the golf course.
The Youth Pollinator Habitat Program will offer children an opportunity to help spread native seeds and learn about the important role pollinators play in the environment. Attendees of all ages will have an opportunity to see and learn about how pockets of native habitat can fit into varied landscapes without impeding other land use practices, and benefit a variety of wildlife species. The first 75 attendees will receive a free t-shirt.
The event will take place of Saturday, Feb. 27, from 1-3 p.m. at A.L. Gustin Golf Course at 18 Stadium Blvd. in Columbia. Event organizers request attendees register by Feb. 20. To register, contact MDC Private Land Conservationist Ryan Lueckenhoff at (660) 886-7447, or ryan.lueckenhoff@mdc.mo.gov.
Over the past 20 years, staff at the A.L. Gustin Golf Course have worked to enhance natural communities on the course – restoring habitat for wildlife and pollinators. This work has made A.L. Gustin the first university golf course in the country to achieve full certification in water conservation, environmental planning, outreach and education, water quality management, integrated pest management, and wildlife and habitat management.
Research has shown that children who spend time outdoors are healthier, receive better grades, have longer attention spans, and are less prone to depression than children who spend most of their time indoors. MDC helps people of all ages discover nature through fun and engaging outdoor experiences.