Events

Discover how to read a topographic map and how to use a compass during this interactive program. You can bring your own compass or use one of ours. Dress for the weather as there will be an outdoor component after an indoor introduction to the map and compass. Registration required. Ages 6+

Nature's Needlers, a program combining nature with quilting, is back! This monthly series features a nature presentation along with a customized quilt block pattern to take home and complete at your own pace. The 2024 theme is "Missouri's Conservation Success Stories."

The Niangua Darter is a species of freshwater fish endemic to the Osage River Basin of central Missouri. Come and learn how MDC continues to manage and grow the population of this unique species. This will be the 6th quilt block in the series. Registration required. Ages 18+

The animals are hungry! Watch as the Runge naturalist feeds the snakes, aquarium fish, and snapping turtles. No registration required. All ages invited.

Curious about dipping your toe in the water of paddle sports but not sure where to begin? Join MDC staff at Binder Lake to gain the information and confidence needed to experience the water yourself! Naturalists will discuss equipment and techniques before inviting participants to try paddling on their own. Meet at the small boat launch at Binder Lake. All equipment is provided. Registration required. Ages 12+

Enjoy a wonderful evening in Missouri hiking Karst Trail at Rock Bridge State Park! Be sure to include your email address in your registration as instructions on where to park and meet will be sent the day of the hike. We will be hiking about one mile on uneven and at times rough terrain. Wear appropriate shoes and bring a water bottle. Registration required. All ages

Learn how to create a worm bin using little red wigglers. Feed your garbage to the worms, put the resulting compost in your garden, and finally, use the little worms for fish bait! Registration required. Ages 6+

Archery is a fun, lifetime sport everyone can enjoy! Learn the basics of archery and how to shoot safely, then practice your newly learned skills under supervision of Runge staff. Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. All equipment provided. Registration required. Ages 10+

Note: Runge's outdoor range may not be accessible to participants who use a wheelchair or crutches. Please check for availability of an all-terrain wheelchair by contacting the program instructor at least two weeks in advance of the program date.

Celebrate National Pollinator Week by assisting with bumble bee surveys along the Runge Nature Center trails and learn about the Missouri Bumble Bee ATLAS, a citizen science project. Participants will capture bumble bees by net, learn how to safely handle them during the survey, and then gather the data needed for the ATLAS prior to releasing the bees. Bring a water bottle and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. All equipment for the survey will be provided. Registration required. Ages 10+

Grab your hiking stick for a guided hike of the North Loop of Wilderness Trail at Meramec State Park (Franklin, Crawford, and Washington Counties); 4 miles – moderate. Meet at Runge Nature Center or the trailhead. Some transportation is provided but carpooling may be necessary. Hike leaders will contact participants before the hike to give directions if needed. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and pack a lunch/snack. Registration required. Ages 18+

Celebrate National Pollinator Week by assisting with bumble bee surveys along the Runge Nature Center trails and learn about the Missouri Bumble Bee ATLAS, a citizen science project. Participants will capture bumble bees by net, learn how to safely handle them during the survey, and then gather the data needed for the ATLAS prior to releasing the bees. Bring a water bottle and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. All equipment for the survey will be provided. Registration required. Ages 10+