Click to learn more about these seasonal topics:
Poison Ivy ~ Hummingbirds ~ Keeping Wildlife Wild
Spiders ~ Eagles ~ Be Bear Aware ~ Fishing ~ Birding
Groundhogs ~ Maple Sugaring ~ Vultures
Morel Mushrooms ~Spring Trees ~ Stream Teams
Frogging ~ Collared Lizards

Participants with disabilities should email the instructor when registering to discuss accommodations needed to participate. Support staff are usually allowed to attend to provide assistance, but instructors need prior notice.

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 here: Sign Up for MDC News.

Arbor Days in April

Plant native trees and practice proper tree care. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages Missourians to celebrate the value of Missouri trees and forests during Arbor Days in April by planting native trees and practicing proper tree care. Missouri Arbor Day is Friday, April 3. Missouri has been observing the state’s official Arbor Day on the first Friday in April for 140 years — since 1886 — when the General Assembly declared the day be set aside for the appreciation and planting of trees. National Arbor Day is recognized on the last Friday of April, which is April 24. Get information on backyard tree care – including types of trees for urban and other landscapes, selecting the right tree for the right place, planting tips, watering and pruning info, and more at mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/tree-care.

Communities around the state also hold local Arbor Day activities. For more information on Arbor Day and Missouri’s Tree City USA communities, visit the Arbor Day Foundation at www.arborday.org. Missouri forests cover about one-third of the state and provide outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat, natural beauty, and watersheds for stream and rivers.  Spending time in Missouri forests can provide a natural health benefit, too. Exposure to nature contributes to physical well-being, reduces blood pressure and heart rate, relieves stress, and boosts energy. Get more information at mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/forest-care.

Nature Programs

Outdoor Skills

___________________________________________________________________________

FISHING & HUNTING

Fishing Programs

Discover Nature Fishing Lesson 1 & 2 (combined) – classes are being planned for Spring 2026

Lesson 1 will go over how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing rod, parts of a fishing rod, how to fasten basic fishing tackle and how to properly handle and release a fish. Lesson 2 covers 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. 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.