Missouri Department of Conservation offers FREE nature classes for outdoor lovers of all ages and abilities. Registration is required for most classes unless indicated. Click on the BLUE text for each class. MDC’s Free Classes & Programs Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.
Learn to FISH or HUNT ~ EAGLES IN MO ~ Summer Photo Contest ~ Be BEAR Aware
Camp Hellbender Summer Camp Schedule
- FULL-Friday, July 19 – Tower Grove Park Join Waiting List
- FULL-Saturday, July 20 – Tower Grove Park Join Waiting List
- FULL-Saturday, July 27 – Columbia Bottom Join Waiting List
Hiking: MTC Hike-Herons and Egrets
Join us for a 3-mile hike to view the herons and egrets feeding in the MTC marsh. The young have just left the nests so we may see both young and adults feeding together. See some of the showiest members of all wading birds. Please dress for the weather and bring binoculars, a water bottle and snacks.
Join our instructors as we learn the fundamentals of shooting archery. This program begins in the Education Center then moves to the static archery range. This is a fun program for the entire family, ages 9 and up.
Session 2 of 2 – registration is NOT required for both sessions. Did someone say invasive!? Uh-oh, that’s not good. Tower Grove Park has a crazy problem – a crayfish problem! Let’s use this opportunity to learn about native and invasive crayfish to Missouri and practice trapping for science, while we help staff manage the garden. Session 1 covers native vs. invasive crayfish and trap setting. Session 2 covers trap recovery and some citizen science. Both are hands-on experiences!
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program* Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species. Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
This program is designed for those who have had some experience with shotguns. We will cover safety, appropriate guns and ammunition, rules of the game, etiquette on the field, and field layout. Firearms and ammunition will be provided, or you may bring your own. An adult must accompany participants under 18.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program* Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species. Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Escape the heat and cool off in the stream! Join us as we explore the aquatic ecosystem at Rockwoods Reservation. Get an up-close look at the insects and fish that make their home in the water. Learn about the importance of healthy watersheds. Come dressed in clothes that can get wet and closed toe shoes or boots. We will provide nets, magnifying glasses, and containers for observation. Meet at the Visitor Center. This program is for participants 5 and up. All children are expected to be accompanied by a caregiver. Siblings under 5 will not be able to attend this program.
Crochet is a great hobby to connect with nature whether crocheting outside in nature, or crocheting a nature project! For this Nature Crocheters class, we’ll be learning about some of the critters that call Tower Grove Park home! Bring a crochet or knit project you’re currently working on, and after a 30-minute presentation we’ll stick around to crochet/knit and enjoy nature in the park. If you don’t have a current project, we’ll have some leftover yarn and patterns from previous programs! We’ll also have a variety of crochet hooks if you need to borrow one. Please register each participant individually.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program* Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species. Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Join us for a night a creativity as we bring nature and art together! Learn the basics of collecting and pinning insects. This incudes tips on how to collect insect safely, tips on identifying and the walking though the pinning process. Each participant will get to pin a pre collected Brood XIII Cicada and design a shadow box for it to go inside. No experience needed and we’ll provide all the materials necessary. Please register each person. Ages 18+
How well do you know Missouri wildlife? Assemble your team and test your knowledge with questions hand-picked by an array of conservation professionals. Grab your favorite snacks and non-alcoholic beverages and join us for a night of fun. Teams are made up of 6 individuals. Every team member must register for the event. Don’t have a full team? No worries, we will help you find a friendly group.
Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1. This first class includes instruction as well as hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing pole, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Discover Nature Girls’ Camp is a FREE, 2-day camp held by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) for girls ages 11-15. The camp will be held on July 22nd and 23rd. One goal of this camp is to encourage participants to leave with the confidence to explore Missouri’s diverse outdoors on their own. Discover Nature Girls’ Camp will provide them with a supportive learning environment where they can actively participate in “hands-on” outdoor skills led by Conservation Agents and MDC staff. Some of these skills include archery, shooting sports, fishing, atlatl, and canoeing. At the completion of camp, the girls will become Hunter Education certified so that they may continue using their newly learned skills. Registration is open to the first 60 girls. You will need to create a username and password for your child to register. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out by email Robin.Borgstede@mdc.mo.gov or phone (636) 441-4554 ext. 4119.
Are you someone that has never shot a bow and arrow before and you’re not sure how to get started? Or maybe you did when you were young, but never pursued the activity any further. Learn the basics of shooting the bow and arrow utilizing some of the techniques and methods that have been adopted by the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP). This course is for those 10 years of age or older with the desire to shoot a bow and arrow but have little or no experience. Note: All equipment will be provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Not recommended for adults with shoulder or back injuries. * Classes will be CANCELLED if we encounter inclement weather.
Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1. This first class includes instruction as well as hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing pole, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1. This first class includes instruction as well as hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing pole, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Families who have never had experience shooting .22 rifles are invited to participate in an instructor led, live fire session learning safety and the proper techniques of shooting .22 rim fire rifles. Firearms, ammunition, and safety equipment will be provided.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program* Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2. Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will be taught how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Take a break from the heat and enjoy a Conservation Matinee inside Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center’s auditorium. Join us for a National Geographic documentary called “How Smart are Raccoons” and dive into the secret lives of the mammals we see most. This documentary showcases how these adaptable animals use their hands, senses, and brains to find food, shelter, and avoid dangers. The video also discusses how raccoons impact different cultures, buildings, and wildlife in various countries, such as Japan and Germany. The runtime of this film is about 53:00 minutes. Before and after viewing, stop by the table at the back of the auditorium for more information on raccoons, publications, and to see raccoon biofacts up close and personal.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*. Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2. Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will be taught how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*. Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2. Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will be taught how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Have you ever wondered what an owl eats? Dive into the fascinating world of these nocturnal predators with our Owl Pellet Dissection Program! This hands-on experience is perfect for curious minds, offering a unique glimpse into the owl’s diet and its role in the ecosystem. Hear about the fascinating adaptations that make owls such great hunters and learn how owl pellets come to be! Each participant will receive their very own owl pellet and receive tools to uncover the secrets it holds within. Become a scientific detective by sorting and identifying the pieces inside the pellet to discover what your owl may have eaten. This program goes beyond simply dissecting an owl pellet. It’s an opportunity to develop critical scientific skills like observation, data analysis, and critical thinking. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for these amazing birds and their vital role in maintaining a healthy environment. Make sure to register each member of your group when signing up, including children. Meet the naturalist in Powder Valley classrooms C & D.
Join our instructors as we learn the fundamentals of shooting archery. This program begins in the Education Center then moves to the static archery range. This is a fun program for the entire family, ages 9 and up
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*. Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species. Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
The compass is an excellent tool to help you reach your destination, identify your location, and map your route. Learn how to do all three by joining us at for this free orienteering program. Included will be a treasure hunt for free giveaways. This event will take place outdoors, so be sure to come prepared with proper footwear, clothing attire for gravel trails, and water. All planning to attend the event should register separately. Children younger than sixteen years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Get an up-close look at the fascinating feeding habits of Missouri venomous snakes! Join Powder Valley naturalists virtually for the feeding of our captive snakes while learning more about the interesting lives of both copperheads and timber rattlesnakes. Open to all ages. Register to receive a Webex meeting link to view the program. The meeting link will be sent out one week before the program as well as one day before. You will be able to ask questions to the naturalists through typed comments.
This event will cover simple fire making methods, cooking utensils, food options and how to cook using stainless steel cookware. Toward the end of the program, participants will have an opportunity to put into practice what they’ve learned. All planning to attend the event should register separately. Children younger than fifteen years of age must be accompanied by an adult. If you have any questions, please contact the host.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*. Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species. Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*, Lesson 3: Participants will learn about aquatic habitats, food webs, and the basic biology of common Missouri fish species. Lesson 4: Participants will learn about various fishing lures techniques, as well as identify and understand Missouri fishing regulations. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Join our instructors as we learn the fundamentals of shooting a crossbow. This program begins in the Education Center then moves to the static archery range. This is a fun program for the entire family, ages 9 and up. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.
Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1. This first class includes instruction as well as hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing pole, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Come on over to Rockwoods Reservation for afternoon of Spelunking! We will begin this program in the classroom at the Rockwoods Education Center, where we will learn more about caves in Missouri, what kind of critters we might find in them, and why our cave ecosystems are so special! After about 45 minutes in the classroom, we will gear up in our helmets and knee pads and head to Bathtub Cave to do some exploring. **Note: You will have to crawl into the entrance and crawl in the cave. The very beginning of this cave is roughly 1 foot tall. Please dress appropriately for the weather and for 55-degree temperatures. Please wear pants and a long sleeve shirt that you do not mind getting dirty. An extra change of clothes, water, and a snack is recommended. Helmets and one flashlight will be provided. Please wear rubber boots as well and bring 2 additional sources of light (such as headlamps or flashlights). If large clusters of bats are encountered, the field trip portion will be cut short. Program will be canceled in inclement weather and rescheduled at a different date. Please register each person who attends to go into the cave individually. Others are welcome to tag along for the classroom portion only. ***Only the age range (7 and up) will be allowed in the cave.***
This introduction course to shotguns will start in the Education Center where we will discuss safety, actions, chokes, stance, and how choose and shoot shotguns. Next, we will go to the range for live fire, including some clay target shooting. Not recommended for students under 90 lbs.
Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1. This first class includes instruction as well as hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing pole, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1. This first class includes instruction as well as hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn parts of a fishing pole, how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing pole, how to fasten basic fishing tackle, and how to properly handle and release a fish. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Discover Nature – Fishing Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot & Bait a Hook
Date: Saturday, August 17, 2024 9:00 am – Saturday, August 17, 2024 11:00 am
Location: Suson Park – Rearing Pond
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*. Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2 Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will be taught how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Crochet is a great hobby to connect with nature whether crocheting outside in nature or crocheting a nature project! At this Nature Crocheters session, we will be learning about Missouri’s native wildflowers. Then we’ll use a beginner-friendly pattern to crochet a simple sunflower granny square that can be great as a coaster or the foundation of a crochet blanket or bag! For this program, participants should know how to crochet and be familiar with chain, slip stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet. Please email the instructor if you’d like instructional videos to learn these stitches. All supplies will be provided including #4 weight yarn, and 5 mm crochet hooks. Please register each participant individually.
Discover one of the most important ecosystems in the state through the film ‘Missouri’s Tallgrass Prairie: An American Original’ (2001). Journey into this exciting world of color, energy, and life; and experience the treasures that make it special. The film’s runtime is 49 minutes, featuring an original music score and narrative voiced by James Earl Jones. After the film, see several live prairie animals up close, hear about how Missouri’s prairies are doing in 2024, and take free wildflower seeds to plant at home.
Take a walk to the confluence to watch the August full moon, commonly known as the Full Sturgeon Moon, Grain Moon, or Corn Moon, as it rises over the cool waters of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Spend a few minutes at the confluence, and then return to lot “L” to watch the sun set over some of this year’s last golden fields of sunflowers. Meet at lot “L”, about 4 miles from the entrance. Dress for the weather and bring a water bottle and insect repellent. Don’t forget your camera! Moonrise: 6:58 pm, Sunset: 7:51 pm
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*. Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2. Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will be taught how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Bring your shotgun, 4 boxes of #7 steel shot, and warm-up for dove season. We’ll create typical hunting scenarios to practice your wingshooting for the September 1st opener.
What can we learn from animal skulls? We can discover many clues to an animal’s adaptations. Participants will conduct hands-on investigations to gather evidence about Missouri wildlife. Join us as we learn how to identify an animal’s diet and adaptations by observing a variety of skulls. This class is designed for ages 5 – 12. Please register each person attending individually. Meet in the classroom in the Visitor Center.
*Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 is required before attending this program*. Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 2. Participants will learn intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will be taught how to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure a variety of baits to various types of hooks. All fishing gear will be provided by the instructors. Please wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities. It is recommended that participants bring sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunscreen. This class is for Children and Families of all ages! Children must be accompanied by an adult. All participants who complete all 4 Discover Nature Fishing Lessons will go home with a free fishing reward to encourage fishing with the family. To register your child, you may need to make a family account, or add them to an existing family account. You can also make you child their own, separate account.
Busch Wildlife Photography Contest
Date: Photos due no later than August 31, 2024
Location: St. Louis Regional Office/Busch Memorial Conservation Area
Calling all photographers! Whether you’re a professional or just like snapping photos on your phone, the Missouri Department of Conservation invites you to head on out to one of our largest Conservation Areas in the state this summer. With nearly 7,000 acres of land and a wide variety of habitats, Busch Conservation Area is host to hundreds of species of wildlife. From Cormorants on the lake, Turkeys in the fields, and Beavers in the creek, the possibilities of spotting some of our incredible Missouri wildlife are endless! Photos submitted via email to Sabrina.Hansen@mdc.mo.gov will be printed and displayed in the entrance of the St. Louis Regional Office within Busch CA for visitors to view and vote for their favorite photo of the week. DETAILS and PHOTOGRAPHY RULES HERE
Eagles of Missouri:
Learn more about bald eagles in Missouri from the MDC online Field Guide at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/
Fishing – Hunting – Shooting
Featured programs during the month of June include:
- Hunting
- Hunter Education Skills Session: July 20, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Columbia Bottom Conservation Area
- Angling
- Discover Nature – Fishing Lesson 1: Equipment, Casting, & Proper Fish Handling: July 13, from 9 – 11 a.m. at Shaw Nature Reserve
- Discover Nature – Fishing Lesson 3 & 4: Intro to Pond Life and Fishing with Lures: July 18, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Forest Park Hatchery
- Shooting
- Youth .22 Rifle: July 13, from 8 – 9:30 a.m. at August A. Busch Shooting Range
- Introduction to Trap Shooting: July 15, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Jay Henges Shooting Range
- Beginning Handgun: July 29, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Jay Henges Shooting Rang
Rainbow trout now ready for catching in MDC-stocked St. Louis area lakes
ST. LOUIS, Mo.—During winter months, the metro St. Louis area is a great place to fish for rainbow trout, thanks to the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Winter Trout Program. Winter Trout Season for MDC’s St. Louis Urban Fishing Program starts in November. That’s good news for trout chasers who now only need to drive minutes to pursue their passions rather than hours to a Missouri trout park or distant Ozark stream. During cold-weather months, MDC will stock nearly 40,000 rainbow trout from November until February this year in nine St. Louis City and County lakes, Union City Lake in Franklin County, as well as in five lakes in the August A. Busch Conservation Area on Route D in St. Charles. Anglers should note that Gendron Lake in St. Ann, Jefferson Lake in Forest Park, and Wild Acres Park Lake in Overland will not be stocked with trout during the 2023-2024 Winter Trout Season. Each of these three lakes are currently undergoing renovation projects making them inaccessible to fishing. MDC will continue to add several brood stock lunker trout—some as large as 10 lbs.—into the mix at its urban winter trout lakes, including the ones in August A. Busch Conservation Area. Area lakes stocked with winter trout this winter include:
- Carondelet Park Boathouse Lake in St. Louis
- January-Wabash Lake in Ferguson
- Koeneman Park Lake in Jennings
- O’Fallon Park Lake in St. Louis
- Suson Park’s Island Lake and Carp Lake
- Tilles Park Lake in St. Louis County
- Union City Lake in Union, Franklin County
- Walker Lake in Kirkwood
- Vlasis Park Lake in Ballwin
- August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area lakes 3, 7, 21, 22, and 23
Some lakes are catch-and-release only, and some are catch-and-keep. After Feb. 1, trout may be harvested from all lakes. Anglers can find information on specific winter trout lakes statewide at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zd5, or check regulations posted at the lakes. All trout anglers between age 16 and 64 must have a valid Missouri fishing permit to participate. Anglers wishing to catch and keep trout must also possess a trout permit regardless of age. Anglers are encouraged to call the hotline at 636-300-9651 to get the latest stocking information. For information about fishing, go online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z9N.
BE BEAR AWARE:
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds St. Louis region residents that June is a time when bears are on the move. Black bears are becoming a growing part of the St. Louis regional landscape, even at times in highly populated areas such as St. Louis and St. Charles counties. Information: mdc.mo.gov/bearaware
