It’s that time of year again where we put on our best costumes and head out looking for tricks and treats! Did you know that wildlife sometimes wears costumes, too? Not the kind you would wear to a costume party, but disguises that help them survive in the wild. Wear your favorite costume and join us for Little Acorns: Critter Costumes to learn about all the different ways animals disguise themselves and make a fun craft to take home with you!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/211990

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/209307

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 Elk River at Cowskin Conservation Access near Noel. 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. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to tie flies? Join the Shoal Creek staff, MAKO fly fishers, and Bud's Bait in this fly-tying series designed for beginners and experts alike. This session will be held at Bud's Bait. Each session will build off of the previous session, so attendance for all sessions is encouraged. All materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own vice and tools. Space is limited. This session will be held at Bud's Bait on East 13th Street in Joplin.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-58229226-creepy#/

Come to Wildcat Glades on October 12th for a unique photo opportunity with creepy and crawlie creatures! For just $25, you can have your picture taken with spooky critters for original fall photos. You can pose as an individual, a couple, a small group, or a family. It's also a great idea for a unique date night!

This event is a fundraiser for Wildcat Glades Nature Group. Our wonderful volunteer and professional photographer, Brad Mace, will be taking the photos. The creepy and crawlie creatures will be provided by Wildcat volunteers.

You will be given a thumb drive to take with you and have as many photos printed at your favorite photo developer. (Walgreens, Walmart, or on-line)

Please review the available slots below and click on the button to sign up. Thank you!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/211616

Prescribed burning can be a valuable tool for managing native plant diversity and controlling undesirable vegetation, but it can be dangerous and ineffective when not used properly. This workshop will provide basic information about how to plan and execute a prescribed burn for grassland management.

Additional Information: Instructed by: Prescribed burning can be a valuable tool for managing native plant diversity and controlling undesirable vegetation, but it can be dangerous and ineffective when not used properly. This workshop will provide basic information about how to plan and execute a prescribed burn for grassland and forested management. Participants will learn about burn equipment, burn line installation, safe weather parameters, ignition operations, and other techniques to safely conduct a prescribed burn

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-57826224-nature#/

Nature Journaling will be taught by local artist, Ash Srinual.
A nature journal is a way to focus our attention and crystalize our observations, thoughts, and experiences. Come join us and learn the skills to expand your natural curiosity and see the little secrets of the natural world! You do not need to be an artist or a naturalist to begin. Just bring a sketchbook or notebook, a pencil, and a sense of curiosity.
For ages 16+ Class size is limited.

Stop by the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center any time between 10:30am- 2:30pm to learn more about Missouri’s mammals by looking at their skulls and furs. How many can you identify?

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!

With their large, orange wings and their impressive yearly migration, the iconic monarch butterfly has become one of the most recognizable of its kind. Join us for Little Acorns: Migrating Monarchs to take a deeper look into the fascinating life of the monarch butterfly and make a butterfly craft to take home with you!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/210990

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-ghostly3#/

Step into a wonder-filled evening as Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales invites families to embark on a magical hike through a hidden portion of the Wildcat trails. Along softly lit pathways winding beneath fluttering leaves, adventure takes center stage as each turn reveals a beloved character from folklore and fable—greet Snow White beneath the moonlit canopy, exchange wishes with Tinkerbell amidst twinkling lights, listen for the mysterious call of the coyote, and wander into the storybook world of Hansel & Gretel.
As you journey, volunteer guides dressed as scribes share tales and insights about our native forest animals, weaving education seamlessly into each enchanting moment. The woods come alive with stories, laughter, and discovery, making this more than just a walk—it’s an immersive experience where magic and learning meet.
The evening culminates in a cozy woodland clearing, with steaming hot cocoa and fresh-baked cookies to warm both hands and hearts. Designed for families of all ages, Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales transforms the outdoors into a realm of imagination and wonder, ensuring memories that will linger long after the last marshmallow melts.
Don your most enchanting costume and slip on your shoes fit for grand adventures, for a magical gathering awaits! This wondrous and completely free festival is conjured by a merry band of volunteers and staff—step into the tale and join the merriment!

Groups of fifteen adventurers will be gathered, each group setting off on their journey every ten minutes. To ensure you don’t miss your enchanted quest, arrive at least five minutes before your chosen hour. Should your plans change under the silver moon, simply erase your name from the scroll of registration. And if you find yourself lost or in need of guidance, seek help using the enchanted number or mystical address provided.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-ghostly3#/

Step into a wonder-filled evening as Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales invites families to embark on a magical hike through a hidden portion of the Wildcat trails. Along softly lit pathways winding beneath fluttering leaves, adventure takes center stage as each turn reveals a beloved character from folklore and fable—greet Snow White beneath the moonlit canopy, exchange wishes with Tinkerbell amidst twinkling lights, listen for the mysterious call of the coyote, and wander into the storybook world of Hansel & Gretel.
As you journey, volunteer guides dressed as scribes share tales and insights about our native forest animals, weaving education seamlessly into each enchanting moment. The woods come alive with stories, laughter, and discovery, making this more than just a walk—it’s an immersive experience where magic and learning meet.
The evening culminates in a cozy woodland clearing, with steaming hot cocoa and fresh-baked cookies to warm both hands and hearts. Designed for families of all ages, Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales transforms the outdoors into a realm of imagination and wonder, ensuring memories that will linger long after the last marshmallow melts.
Don your most enchanting costume and slip on your shoes fit for grand adventures, for a magical gathering awaits! This wondrous and completely free festival is conjured by a merry band of volunteers and staff—step into the tale and join the merriment!

Groups of fifteen adventurers will be gathered, each group setting off on their journey every ten minutes. To ensure you don’t miss your enchanted quest, arrive at least five minutes before your chosen hour. Should your plans change under the silver moon, simply erase your name from the scroll of registration. And if you find yourself lost or in need of guidance, seek help using the enchanted number or mystical address provided.

Information to come!

https://mostateparks.com/event/110426/east-drywood-creek-natural-area-saunter

Missouri's designated natural areas represent some of the best – and last – examples of our state's original landscapes. You're invited to explore one of these areas during a guided at Prairie State Park. This 2.6-mile saunter will use sections of Drover's and Sandstone trails to traverse the former East Drywood Creek Natural Area. This natural area was eventually combined with three others to form Regal Tallgrass Prairie Natural Area, which today comprises more than 90% of the park. 

The saunter will begin at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center. This event is free and open to the public, and there is no registration. Participants are encouraged to wear sturdy footwear and bring water, snacks, insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen. More information is available by calling the nature center at 417-843-6711.

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.

Join us in our work to widen the narrow Green/Bluff trail section, as well as clear overhanging branches. This valuable work makes the trails a safer and more comfortable experience for everyone to enjoy and we appreciate your help! We will meet outside of the Wildcat Glades Education Cottage at 9am and carpool from there. Dress for navigating uneven terrain and protecting yourself from poison ivy and sunburn. Long pants and close-toed shoes are recommended. We provide tools. Please bring your own gloves and a water bottle.

https://www.facebook.com/events/760288563594186/

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-58095925-nature#/

Plant Prints & Nature Journaling Celebrate the changing season with a hands-on nature journaling adventure! We'll explore leaves, bark, and plant textures though rubbing and sketching, while gently learning how to enjoy nature in a way that keeps it safe and beautiful for wildlife and others. It's a great way to slow down, observe, and create something special from the world around us.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-58052517-preschool

Join us for “Preschool Connections: Squirrels & Trees”—a playful, hands-on class designed especially for young children and their caregivers. Together, we’ll discover the lively world of our furry-tailed neighbors, the squirrels and the places they call home. Listen to a fun story about a squirrel’s busy day, followed by a short talk about trees and the many ways animals use them. To register visit our Facebook page or email sara@wildcatglades.org

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.

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!

We’d love for you to join us! If you’re 16 or older, come spend an enjoyable evening learning the art of textile weaving—no prior experience needed. Instructor Kelly Hock will be there to guide you every step of the way, making sure everyone feels welcome and at ease. Sip on soothing herbal teas, make new friends, and create your very own unique art piece in a warm, relaxed setting. The class fee is just $10 and covers all your supplies, and if you’re feeling generous, extra donations are always appreciated but never expected.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-57710518-textile#/

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-58052517-preschool

Join us for “Preschool Connections: Squirrels & Trees”—a playful, hands-on class designed especially for young children and their caregivers. Together, we’ll discover the lively world of our furry-tailed neighbors, the squirrels and the places they call home. Listen to a fun story about a squirrel’s busy day, followed by a short talk about trees and the many ways animals use them. To register visit our Facebook page or email sara@wildcatglades.org

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.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/209306

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 Big Sugar Creek at Deep Ford Conservation Access near Pineville. 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. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

We're teaming up with our friends at Wildcat Glades to offer education on fall plantings, winterizing beds, and prep for spring blooms!

Join us from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Steadley Family Legacy Center at the Carthage Public Library on Monday, Aug. 25!

Light refreshments will be provided. This class is free, but you must RSVP and seats will fill quickly! Register here: https://shorturl.at/lItlb or call our office at 417-674-3328 to be added to our guest list!

This class counts towards the Restoration Carthage program.

https://mostateparks.com/event/110291/hunkah-prairie-natural-area-saunter

Missouri's designated natural areas represent some of the best – and last – examples of our state's original landscapes. You're invited to explore one of these areas during a guided saunter on Path of the Earth People at Prairie State Park. This 1.9-mile trail traverses the former Hunkah Prairie Natural Area, which was designated as a natural area on Aug. 26, 1975, five years before the establishment of the park. Hunkah Prairie was eventually combined with three other natural areas to form Regal Tallgrass Prairie Natural Area, which today comprises more than 90% of the park. 

The saunter will begin at the Path of the Earth People trailhead on West Central Road. Participants are encouraged to wear sturdy footwear and bring water, snacks, insect repellent, a hat and sunscreen. Refreshments will be available in the nature center after the saunter. This event is free and open to the public, and there is no registration. More information is available by calling the nature center at 417-843-6711.

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.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-57737995-lets#/

Dive into the world of our freshwater turtle friends! Kids ages 7–14 will explore local species in a hands-on nature class.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-57711255-preschool#/

Prepare to step into the extraordinary world of ants! At our upcoming gathering, we'll dive into the secrets of “Ant Cities,” discovering how these tiny architects construct complex underground societies. Become an ant explorer as we venture outdoors to observe real ant trails, decode their teamwork, and marvel at their strength. Ant-themed songs will get us moving like a colony on the march, and you’ll create your very own ant craft to take home—a little piece of the bustling world beneath our feet. Join us for an evening where it’s all about ants: their teamwork, their adventure, and their fascinating lives!

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!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/210253

Missouri is home to a growing population of black bears! Seeing these shy, curious bears in our neck of woods is an exciting experience, but there are always things we can do to be more bear aware. Join us for Little Acorns: Bear Aware to learn all about Missouri’s largest mammals and make a craft to take home with you!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/209305

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 Spring River at La Russell Conservation Access near La Russell. 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. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.