MDC’s August programming

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City has a full schedule of programs planned for August. Some programs require registration in advance, so MDC Nature Center Assistant Manager Becky Matney encourages guests to familiarize themselves with MDC’s event website for the nature center at mdc.mo.gov/centralevents.

Unless otherwise noted, registration opens Aug. 1 for all programs.

August programs at the nature center will include:

Summer Snorkeling: Friday, Aug. 2, 4 – 7:30 p.m. – all ages. Cool off in the Maries River and explore the natural world beneath the water’s surface. Drop in anytime at Dr. Bernard Bruns River Access near Westphalia. Dress to get wet and wear shoes for walking in the water. No registration required. More information at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/167594

Half-Day Discovery Hike-Rock and Creek Exploration: Saturday, Aug. 10, 8 a.m. – noon – ages 8+ . Wade in cool water and examine the swimming and crawling critters that call the creek home. Roll a few rocks to see what lies beneath, and generally enjoy chilling out on this adventure. Location will be determined based on best water level on date of hike. Meet at Runge Nature Center with something to drink, shoes that can get wet, and your curiosity. Registration required at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/165332

Design with Nature in Mind: Stamping Techniques: Saturday, Aug. 17, 9:30 a.m. – noon; or 1 – 3:30 p.m. – ages 18+.Join us in learning more about the North American elk. Complete a two-card rotation and take home two cards with coordinating envelopes. Registration required at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/163387

Conservation Families: Kayaking at Binder Lake: Friday, Aug. 23, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. – ages 10+. There’s nothing like the freedom of the water that a kayak provides. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about paddling a kayak, this program will cover all the basics and get you water-ready. Meet at Binder Lake Tackle Shop across from the playground. Registration required at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/167595

Saturdays @ Runge: Stick, Prick, Sting, and Bite. Saturday, Aug. 31, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – all ages. Have you ever walked through the forest and been stung by stinging nettles, bitten by a mosquito, or pricked by a thorn? Join nature center staff to discover and learn how to avoid the plants and animals that stick, prick, sting, and bite. No registration required.