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.

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!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/208211

Parents, grandparents, and adult mentors bring your youngster(s) to learn a new skill and spend time practicing. You don’t have to be a hunter to become a skilled archer. No experience is necessary and archery equipment will be provided We will teach and practice the basics and help you perfect your stance to shoot more consistently and accurately.

Crawl into the fascinating world of bugs! Join us for “Busy Bugs” at Mercy Park, an interactive program where curious minds can explore the amazing lives of insects. See live insects up close and go on a mini bug safari. Perfect for kids ages 5 and up. No registration is required. Come explore the world under your feet.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/210234

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.

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 Center Creek 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. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

https://wildcatglades.org/event/nature-explorers-camping-101/

Free to Attend

Friday, July 25th 6-7 pm at the Wildcat Education Cottage

For ages 7-14

Embark on a learning journey with us as we uncover the secrets of camping. Camping is a fantastic way to spend your summer, and we’re here to ensure you’re well-prepared. Bring your explorers to learn the art of setting up and packing their tent, being ready for a bustling camping area, and choosing the ideal campsite. Campers will learn outdoor safety & fire-building skills in a kid friendly format.  Campers in training will wrap up the evening by roasting marshmallows.  To equip yourself with knowledge, visit our Facebook page or call us to register.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/209310

Some people love them, some people fear them, but either way you look at them snakes play an important role in our ecosystems! Join us for Little Acorns: Slithery Snakes to learn more about these fascinating reptiles and make a slithery craft to take home with you!

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

Free come & go event for all ages

Are you tired of the hot, dry weather we have been having this summer? Here is your chance to cool off and beat the heat at the Shoal Creek Water Festival on Saturday, July 19 from 10 AM – 2:00 PM. This partnership event with the Wildcat Glades Nature Group will take place at Shoal Creek in Wildcat Park. We have a day of water fun planed for you, from a lazy river float to cardboard and shoebox boat races, and even a duck race. There will also be nature programs for the kids. Come, spend the day to discover nature and learn about conservation, water quality, and ecology at one of the water activity booths as you stroll along the creek. Visit wildcatglades.org or the Wildcat Glades Nature Group Facebook page for a complete lineup of the day’s events.!

https://wildcatglades.org/event/shoal-creek-water-festival/

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/209304

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 Shoal Creek at Allen Bridge Conservation Access near Neosho. 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.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/209999

No registration required. Open to all ages. Meet at Shelter #1 in Landreth Park, Joplin. Reptiles and Amphibians are misunderstood wildlife in Missouri. Join us for this partnership program to explore the similarities and differences between these two groups. See live animals! Meet us at shelter #1 in Landreth Park.

https://wildcatglades.org/event/preschool-connections-wooly-bear/

Free to Attend

Wednesday, July 9th, 10 am to 11 am OR  Saturday, July 12th 1pm at the Wildcat Glades Education Cottage

For ages 3 – 7 accompanied by an adult

Program sponsored by Calvin Cassidy

Caterpillars come in many bright colors! Have you ever wondered what they become? Join us to learn about their amazing transformation into butterflies and enjoy a fun caterpillar craft with some playtime!

Discover “Wooly Bear Caterpillar” as read by our very own Ms. Vicki.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/WoolyCaterpillars or email sara@wildcatglades.org

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.

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://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.

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

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/208683

Lighting up the summertime night sky are tiny, magical bugs that put on a light show! Join us for Little Acorns: Firefly Magic to learn all about the “magic” of these twinkling lights and make a firefly craft to take home with you.