MDC invites educators to explore insects with Discover Nature Schools

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites in-service and pre-service teachers, and leaders of scouts, 4H, and other youth groups to one of four educator workshops focused on insects at locations across the state:

• Hannibal – Wednesday, July 18, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the Hannibal MDC Office, 8965 Highway 36, Suite 1
• Kirksville – Saturday, Sept. 22, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the MDC Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore Road
• Kansas City – Saturday, Sept. 29, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the MDC Kansas City Regional Office, 120405 SE Ranson Road, in Lees Summit
• Williamsburg – Monday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Prairie Fork Conservation Area, 4200 Highway D in Callaway County

“Insects make up more than 90% of all life on earth, and provide many teachable moments – indoors and outdoors,” said MDC Conservation Education Consultant Kathi Moore. “Insects play a vital role in food webs and ecosystems, and they provide a fantastic way to provide hands-on, inquiry-based learning opportunities for students. “

This workshop will teach educators about common insects of Missouri. Participants will learn how to collect and preserve insects, and will make and take home some basic insect collecting equipment. MDC staff will focus on insect exercises from each grade level of the Discover Nature Schools curriculum, with activities for students from Pre-K through high school.

Participants should dress to go outside, wear sturdy shoes, and bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and lunch. Scout, 4H, and other youth leaders should bring badge- and project requirements so staff can help meet required goals. Participants should also bring a used, clean glass jar with an opening large enough to easily insert a hand, and a tight-fitting or airtight lid.

Participants must preregister for these workshops via the online MDC Teacher Portal at nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/teacher-portal/teacher-workshops.  For more information, contact Kathi Moore at (573) 258-2530, ext. 6378, or Kathi.Moore@mdc.mo.gov.