Nature Escape Room for Teens
Jun
17
5:00 PM17:00

Nature Escape Room for Teens

  • Joplin Public Library Joplin, MO United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Register with Joplin Public Library

Ages: 13-17

A nature-themed escape room where 10 animals and their unique characteristics need to be discovered to complete the room in 30 minutes. The room is filled with puzzles, clues, and games to complete the room. Teens will compete in groups of 4, and registration with Joplin Public Library is required. For more information, please contact the Joplin Public Library at (417) 623-7953. Teen program.

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Stream Fishing - Spring River
Jun
17
6:00 PM18:00

Stream Fishing - Spring River

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/208854

We are blessed with so many fishing opportunities in our local streams. Here is your chance to learn about stream fishing. We will be fishing at Carl Junction Conservation Access. You will have the opportunity to fish from the bank or get into the river and wade fish. You are encouraged to bring you own fishing equipment, but we will have rods, reel, and lures available for participants to use.

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Habitat Restoration
Jun
18
9:00 AM09:00

Habitat Restoration

  • Redings Mill Bridge Joplin, MO United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Come join us in removing invasive wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed native critters, and they also help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will teach you how to identify and remove wintercreeper and we encourage you to discover the plants and animals that live in this area. We would love to help you identify and learn more about anything you find.
We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then take a short walk to the work site. Please dress for the weather and working outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun! We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles. You are welcome to work the full three hours or leave whenever you need to, we are glad to have you with us for as long as you are able. If you need to come in late just walk the trail west of the parking lot and you will find us!

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Solstice Hike
Jun
21
10:00 AM10:00

Solstice Hike

  • Chert Glades Master Naturalist (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

What better way to welcome summer than to spend your evening out on the trails? June 21st is the longest day of the year, & Wildcat volunteers plan to take advantage of the extra sunlight. Join us to hike the entire 4-mile trail through Wildcat Park! This hike is for those that can handle long hikes & periods of steep/rough terrain. Bring your hiking poles (if you want to!), hiking shoes, water & small snack. Participants will learn what our Nature Group does, & learn tree identifications. This program has limited capacity, so registration is required. Please visit our Facebook page, email robin@wildcatglades.org

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Show Me Water Safety Event
Jun
21
10:00 AM10:00
Wildcat Glades

Show Me Water Safety Event

  • Chert Glades Master Naturalist (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://www.joplinfamilyy.org/programs/16/show-me-water-safety-event/#division_44

Every registered participant between the ages of 4-12 will receive a Free lifejacket.  All participants must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Children will visit several different interactive stations including getting in the water with safety crews.  Swimsuits recommended for all youth participating.

Show Me Water Safety is a comprehensive program developed through a collaborative community partnership committed to reducing the risk of injury and loss of life associated with recreational water activities.  This initiative brings together professionals from diverse fields, such as aquatic safety, emergency response, and environmental education, all dedicated to equipping participants with essential water safety knowledge and skills.

This program is made possible through the generous financial support of individual donors and organizations and the dedicated efforts of a diverse group of volunteers who contribute their time and skills to ensure its success.

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Habitat Restoration
Jun
29
9:00 AM09:00

Habitat Restoration

Come join us in removing invasive wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed native critters, and they also help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will teach you how to identify and remove wintercreeper and we encourage you to discover the plants and animals that live in this area. We would love to help you identify and learn more about anything you find.
We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then take a short walk to the work site. Please dress for the weather and working outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun! We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles. You are welcome to work the full three hours or leave whenever you need to, we are glad to have you with us for as long as you are able. If you need to come in late just walk the trail west of the parking lot and you will find us!

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Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter
Jul
12
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/108071/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

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Wildcat Water Fest
Jul
19
9:00 AM09:00
Wildcat Glades

Wildcat Water Fest

Water you doing? It’s time for Wildcat Glades’ yearly Water Festival!

Free come & go event for all ages

Join us for a day of fun and togetherness at the Water Festival! We have activities for all ages, including cardboard boat races, shoebox boat races, a rubber duck race, a fishing derby, food , water education and entertainment. This is a perfect opportunity for the whole family to bond and create lasting memories. For more information on how to register for the cardboard or shoebox boat races, check out our FaceBook page or message us!

More information will be added as we get closer to this year’s Festival. Mark your calendars today!

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Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter
Aug
2
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/108076/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

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Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter
Sep
6
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/108081/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

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Prairie Day
Sep
13
10:00 AM10:00
George Washington Carver

Prairie Day

  • 5646 Carver Rd, Diamond, MO 64840 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=FF7D121E-044B-29C0-284BE15F8EC42186

Explore life on the Missouri prairie when George Washington Carver was a child. This event features basket weaving, candle-making, spinning, storytelling, musical groups, quilting, archaeology, Civil War history, interactive exhibits about natural resources, and more. Earn a special Prairie Day Junior Ranger badge! A concession stand will be available.

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Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter
Nov
1
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/108086/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

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Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter
Dec
6
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Prairie State Park - Guided Bison Saunter

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/108091/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

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Prairie State Park - Night Saunter
Jun
14
8:45 PM20:45
Prairie State Park

Prairie State Park - Night Saunter

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/109736/night-saunter

Have you experienced a prairie as night falls? No? Well, here is your chance to find out what happens as the sun goes down. Join us for a night saunter on the prairie on Saturday, June 14. We will meet at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature at 8:45 p.m., and we will conclude by 10 p.m.

During this event, we will get a greater appreciation for the prairie as day fades into night. Think nothing is going on? Think again! Some plants flower only at night, and many animals are more active when it is cooler. We walk about 1 mile across the prairie. Be sure to bring a flashlight and insect repellent, and wear sturdy shoes and long pants.  

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park’s campground and picnic area, but must you follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. For more information, call the nature center at 417-843-6711.

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Pollinator Chat & Crochet
Jun
14
1:00 PM13:00

Pollinator Chat & Crochet

  • Joplin Public Library Joplin, MO United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

June is a wonderful time to explore the world of pollinators. Join us in this partnership event with the Joplin Public Library to learn about the importance of pollinators in Missouri including bees, butterflies, and many others. Knowledge won’t be the only thing you will leave with that evening as we create a simple crochet bee. It’s recommended you know basic crochet stitches, but it isn’t required. All materials will be provided. Registration is required with the Joplin Public Library. For more information, please contact the Joplin Public Library at (417) 623-7953.   

Ages: 18 and up

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Welcome to "Sssensational Snakes!"
Jun
14
10:00 AM10:00

Welcome to "Sssensational Snakes!"

  • Chert Glades Master Naturalist (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-56379275-welcome#/

Slippery, scaly, and seriously cool—snakes have slithered their way through myths, jungles, deserts, and even your backyard. Today, we're setting the record straight on these misunderstood reptiles and learning why they're more fascinating than fearsome.

Hector, the misunderstood snake book

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Carver Day Celebration
Jun
12
10:00 AM10:00
George Washington Carver

Carver Day Celebration

  • 5646 Carver Road Diamond, MO 64840 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=F5A298D0-CC16-3E51-781C4764399E9773

Join us for a special day celebrating the establishment of George Washington Carver National Monument 82 years ago!

Carver Day features programs interpreting the life and legacy of George Washington Carver, guest speakers, musical groups, and exhibitors. Earn a special Carver Day Junior Ranger badge! A concession stand will be available.

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Welcome to "Sssensational Snakes!"
Jun
11
10:00 AM10:00

Welcome to "Sssensational Snakes!"

  • Chert Glades Master Naturalist (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-56379275-welcome#/

Slippery, scaly, and seriously cool—snakes have slithered their way through myths, jungles, deserts, and even your backyard. Today, we're setting the record straight on these misunderstood reptiles and learning why they're more fascinating than fearsome.

Hector, the misunderstood snake book

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Learn to Fish: Introduction to Stream Fishing
Jun
10
6:00 PM18:00

Learn to Fish: Introduction to Stream Fishing

  • 201 W. Riviera Drive Joplin, MO United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/208745

We are blessed with so many fishing opportunities in our local streams. Here is your chance to learn about stream fishing. In this session we will cover different equipment, bait, habitat, structure, and presentation for stream fishing. You are encouraged to attend this session before signing up for the bank-side stream fishing sessions.

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MPF 14th Annual BioBlitz, National Prairie Day, and Prairie Dedication
Jun
7
to Jun 8

MPF 14th Annual BioBlitz, National Prairie Day, and Prairie Dedication

  • Co Rd 199, Lockwood, MO 65682 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Missouri Prairie Foundation for our 14th Annual BioBlitz, National Prairie Day, and Prairie Dedication! Following a welcome and dedication of the Snadon Tract of Coyne Prairie at 1:30 p.m. on June 7, you can join one of many study groups to search for and document butterflies, bees, plants, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and much more! Following afternoon study groups, enjoy a potluck dinner under a big tent on the prairie, and pitch a tent if you wish to spend the night under the wide-open prairie sky. Several study groups will also be held on Sunday morning, including early morning bird watching. See information on what MPF will provide and what participants should bring below the schedule.

Participation in this weekend event is free but registration is required by June 5, 2025. For questions, please email outreach@moprairie.org or phone Amanda Lands Ramrup at 636-303-7418.

https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/ugkWZ-GiuCan_a6mVSORaQ

MORE INFORMATION:

https://moprairie.org/event/mpf-14th-annual-bioblitz/

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Prairie State Park - Bison Saunter
Jun
7
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Prairie State Park - Bison Saunter

  • 128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines, MO Joplin, MO United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/108066/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Summer is almost here, and the prairie is exploding with gorgeous colors and sounds! Wildflowers and birds abound. Bison and their calves are moving about and exploring. Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. In addition, binoculars can be useful in watching the bison and other wildlife. June weather can be unpredictable, so please prepare for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.


State Park is located at:

128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines, MO

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Crawdads at the Creek
Jun
6
6:30 PM18:30
Wildcat Glades

Crawdads at the Creek

We’re excited to invite you to Wildcat Glades' fourth annual "Crawdads at the Creek" event! Everyone’s welcome to join us for a fun-filled evening by the creek, featuring a delightful crawdad dinner under a cozy, lit event tent. Enjoy live music, a dessert auction, yard games, and the chance to connect with nature while indulging in a tasty meal. Tickets are just $50 per person, and we’ll provide refreshing drinks, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase. We can’t wait to see you there and share this special experience together!

https://wildcatglades.org/event/crawdads-at-the-creek-2/

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Habitat Restoration Work Day
Jun
2
9:00 AM09:00

Habitat Restoration Work Day

  • Redings Mill Bridge Joplin, MO United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS


Come join us in removing invasive wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed native critters, and they also help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will teach you how to identify and remove wintercreeper and we encourage you to discover the plants and animals that live in this area. We would love to help you identify and learn more about anything you find.
We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then take a short walk to the work site. Please dress for the weather and working outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun! We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles. You are welcome to work the full three hours or leave whenever you need to, we are glad to have you with us for as long as you are able. If you need to come in late just walk the trail west of the parking lot and you will find us!

Upcoming habitat work days for the month of June:
Saturday June 14, 2025 9am-noon
Wednesday June 18, 2025 9am-noon
Sunday June 29, 2025 9am-noon

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Nativescaping Garden Workshop
May
22
6:00 PM18:00

Nativescaping Garden Workshop

https://www.visioncarthage.org/event-details/nativescaping-garden-workshop

Want to develop your green thumb?

Take part in our FREE nativescaping workshop!

We’re teaming up with our friends at Wildcat Glades to provide beginner-level gardening instruction!

Take home native seeds and a wealth of knowledge!

This class counts towards the Restoration Carthage Program.

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Nature Explorers: Spider Sniffing
May
17
8:30 PM20:30

Nature Explorers: Spider Sniffing

For ages 7 to 14

Want to go spider sniffing? It may sound silly, but spider sniffing is a real technique used to find spiders in the wild by catching the reflections of a flashlight off of their eyes! Ready to learn more and get your own spider sniffing certificate? Then you’ll have to come join us at Nature Explorers: Spider Sniffing!

Must pre-register. Please do so by visiting our Facebook page, emailing colvin@wildcatglades.org, or by going to https://bit.ly/NatureExplorers525

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Preschool Connections: Sunflowers
May
10
1:00 PM13:00

Preschool Connections: Sunflowers

For ages 3 – 7

Aren’t sunflowers just great? We here at Wildcat definitely think so! At this month’s Preschool Connections, we’ll be learning about, reading about, singing about, and planting some amazing sunflowers in the Wildcat Garden. Your child will also receive seeds to plant at home. If your kids love gardening, plants, or just plain ole’ digging in the dirt, this is the program for you!

Must pre-register. Please do so by visiting our Facebook page, emailing colvin@wildcatglades.org, or by going to https://bit.ly/PreschoolConnections525

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Bird Trail Trivia
May
10
10:00 AM10:00

Bird Trail Trivia

  • Chert Glades Master Naturalist (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Enjoy time in the great outdoors and test your bird knowledge by taking part in our self-guided Trail Trivia! Come inside the center to pick up a question sheet, a pencil, and a clipboard before hitting the trail and answering the questions (found along the trail). Answer as many or as few as you like but don't forget to stop back by the front desk to drop off your stuff and grab a prize!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/207995

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Praririe State Park - Wildflower Walk
May
9
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Praririe State Park - Wildflower Walk

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/109876/wildflower-walk

May is a great time to be on the prairie. Green grass is everywhere, and it is dotted with an abundance of wildflowers. Are you curious as to what wildflowers are in bloom? Come walk with us and find out! We will depart from the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

Participants should be prepared for a 2-mile walk. Staff recommend bringing water, snacks, a hat, insect repellent and sunscreen and wearing sturdy footwear. May weather can be windy and unpredictable, so be sure to dress for it.

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public; however, space is limited, and registration is required. Call 417-843-6711 to register or for more information.

View Event →
Preschool Connections: Sunflowers
May
7
10:00 AM10:00

Preschool Connections: Sunflowers

  • Chert Glades Master Naturalist (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

For ages 3 – 7

Aren’t sunflowers just great? We here at Wildcat definitely think so! At this month’s Preschool Connections, we’ll be learning about, reading about, singing about, and planting some amazing sunflowers in the Wildcat Garden. Your child will also receive seeds to plant at home. If your kids love gardening, plants, or just plain ole’ digging in the dirt, this is the program for you!

Must pre-register. Please do so by visiting our Facebook page, emailing colvin@wildcatglades.org, or by going to https://bit.ly/PreschoolConnections525

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May the Forest Be with You: Return of the Native Species
May
3
10:00 AM10:00

May the Forest Be with You: Return of the Native Species

"Help us, Joplin—you're our only hope!"

Join the Wildcat Glades Nature Group, Joplin Parks & Recreation, Liberty Utilities, the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Master Naturalists, Wright Tree Service, and Gripka Cuts as we team up to champion native species and safeguard our planet!

This year’s theme, “Return of the Native Species,” highlights the epic showdown between native and invasive species—and how you can play a heroic role in ensuring victory for our natives.
If battles between good and evil aren’t quite your thing, don’t worry—there’s plenty more in store!

Enjoy a Native Tree Giveaway sponsored by Liberty Utilities, live music, delicious food trucks, an all-ages Star Wars-themed costume contest, an exciting scavenger hunt, tree demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and a variety of booths hosted by community organizations.

Let’s stand together for our planet and make this an unforgettable event.

May the Forest be with us!

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Guided Bison Saunter
May
3
10:00 AM10:00
Prairie State Park

Guided Bison Saunter

  • 128 Northwest 150th Lane Mindenmines, MO, 64769 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

https://mostateparks.com/event/108061/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

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Foraging Walkabout (Registration Required)
May
1
11:00 AM11:00
Wildcat Glades

Foraging Walkabout (Registration Required)

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-56514837-foraging#/

Certified Forager and owner of Good Naturing Kelly Hock will teach you about foraged foods and herbal medicines, that can be found growing at Wildcat Glades. All proceeds go to benefit Wildcat Glades Nature Group to keep the nature-based classes coming and to help volunteers keep the trails beautiful! 

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MSSU Plant Taxonomy Taskforce
Apr
28
2:30 PM14:30

MSSU Plant Taxonomy Taskforce

We will convene at the Wildcat Glades parking lot, next to the visitor center at 2:30 PM on Monday April 28th, 2025.

We will have a very leisurely, one hour, botany tour, and investigate the spring flora of the area. All are welcome to join us. If you are concerned about the weather, don’t come.

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Empire Market - Goats in the Garden
Apr
26
9:00 AM09:00
Empire Market - Joplin

Empire Market - Goats in the Garden

  • Chert Glades Master Naturalist (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

If you're a gardener curious about these amazing plants, swing by the 'Goats in the Garden' event at Empire Market.The Missouri Master Naturalist, Chert Glades Chapter, will be there to reveal Top 10 picks for different interests and garden situations. 

Do you want to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden? Are you trying to save water, or do you have a problem with too much water? Is your yard all sun or all shade? Are you trying to connect children to nature, or do you just want things to look pretty? 

Drop by our table and discover which plants might fit your needs in the very best way.  Let's level up Missouri's green game, one awesome plant at a time!     

Empire Market

998 E 3rd St, Joplin, MO 64801

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