|
May 2019
HOLIDAY CLOSURES
All facilities will be closed for these state holidays:
Truman’s Birthday, May 8th
Memorial Day, May 27th
1401 NW Park Road, Blue Spring, MO 64015
Located in Blue Springs, Missouri, one mile north of I-70 and one mile west of MO 7 on Park Road. Six trails, 1,071 wooded acres, two picnic areas, indoor wildlife viewing area, 3,000 gallon native fish and turtle aquarium, hands-on nature exhibits, gift shop, and sales of fishing and hunting permits.
|
NATURE CENTER HOURS:
Tuesday–Saturday: 8 AM–5 PM Closed all state holidays.
AREA AND TRAILS:
Daily: 7 AM–6 PM Daylight Saving Time: 7 AM–8 PM
TO REGISTER FOR A PROGRAM: Programs are free. Register online by clicking the event links below or at: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/link/burr-oak-woods-nature-center-events.
If you are unable to attend a program, please call us at 816-228-3766 and cancel as a courtesy.
Critter Feeding Schedule
Wednesday & Saturday ∙ 3 PM
Walk-in (all ages)
Discover what’s for dinner at Burr Oak Woods as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Wednesday and Saturday. The snakes are fed every other week (May10 & 24).
Armored Invaders
May 4 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10–11 AM
No registration required (all ages)
Strange armored creatures have invaded Missouri! Why are they here? Where did they come from? Join us to learn about the environmental role that nine-banded armadillos play.
A Froggy Experience
May 4 ∙ Saturday ∙ 7:30–9 PM
No registration required (all ages)
Amphibians are a fun and important group that scientists study to determine the health of an ecosystem. Learn how to identify frogs by their calls and create a froggy craft to take home. We will walk to a pond to listen for and maybe even catch a few frogs!
Little Acorns: Armored Little Ones
May 9 ∙Thursday ∙ 10–11 AM or 1–2 PM
Registration required (ages 3–5 with an adult)
“What was that!?” Jump straight up to Burr Oak Woods for some facts about Missouri’s armored invader! Nine-banded armadillos dig through the dirt, eating lots of insects along the way. Come on in and learn what it means to be an armadillo.
Family Fishing
May 11 ∙ Saturday ∙ 9:30–11:30 AM
Registration required (families)
This is a great time of year to take your family fishing. We will teach some fishing basics, provide equipment and worms and then let you practice your new fishing skills. Kids who attend will be entered in a drawing at the end of the summer for a new fishing pole and tackle box.
Backpacking in Missouri
May 11 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10–11 AM
No registration required (all ages)
Join 2200-mile Appalachian Trail hiker, Lisa Richter, to discover some great backpacking trails in Missouri! Learn how to carry everything you need for a multi-day trip on your back. Program will include hands-on activities outside, weather permitting.
Family Canoe and Kayak Basics
May 11 ∙ Saturday ∙ 12:30–2 PM
Registration required for all family members attending (ages 8+; parent participation required)
Lakes and streams are beautiful and are a unique part of the outdoor recreational opportunities available in Missouri. Gain confidence exploring out on the water as you learn basic canoe and kayak strokes, problem-solving tips and how to plan your own river trip. This program will be presented at the W. Robert Aylward Educational Pond.
It’s a Spring Tea Party!
May 14 ∙ Tuesday ∙ 1–3 PM
Registration required (adults)
Did you know that you can create delightful natural teas from leaves collected just outside your door? Come in and enjoy a cup of tea as you learn how to identify, harvest and dry these delicious leaves for later use.
Babes in the Woods: Creek Crawlin’
May 15 ∙Wednesday ∙ 10–11 AM
Registration required (babes under 36 months)
Come explore a creek with your little one! We will take a short hike to Burr Oak Creek to splash and experience this watery world. Bring water bottles and towels. Do not wear a swimsuit. Wear closed-toed shoes (no aqua socks). Program starts at the Bethany Falls parking lot.
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10 AM–3 PM
Walk-in (all ages)
There are numerous opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy nature in Blue Springs! The Missouri Department of Conservation partners with Blue Springs Parks and Recreation and Jackson County Parks + Recreation to offer this celebration of the outdoors in our community. This event will be held at Lake Remembrance. Activities include: kayaking, fishing, wild edible plants, birding, outdoor yoga, archery, learn about the unlovables in nature (snakes, spiders and insects) and so much more! There will be something for all ages. Call 816-228-3766 for more information.
|
 |
Rockin’ & Readin’ Nature Tales
May 25 ∙ Saturday ∙ 11 AM–Noon
Walk-in (ages 2+)
Join us for story hour as we lead you on fantastic nature adventures! We will meet birds, mammals and all sorts of magnificent creatures! We will cross rivers, discover mysteries within the forest and fly across the prairies. Our imaginations are the only limits.
Cold Blooded Critters
May 25 ∙ Saturday ∙ 2–3 PM
No registration required (all ages)
Slither, hop, crawl or swim into the exciting world of Missouri’s cold-blooded critters. These unique animals play an important part in our diverse ecosystems. Join us as we learn about these amazing creatures and get an up-close look at some of them. Stick around for the scheduled Critter Feeding afterword.
 |
|
If you love to have fun outdoors and like to learn new skills, then this program is for you! Teamwork, safety and leadership are stressed. Join us June 5th – June 19th as we learn the basics of these outdoor skills.
Morning: 8:30 a.m.–Noon
Afternoon: 12:30–4:00 p.m.
Block I: Archery, Atlatl, Canoeing
Block II: Fishing, Orienteering or GPS, Air Rifles
On-line registration for the 2019 Burr Oak Woods Outdoor Skills Camp begins May 1st and ends May 31st. Be sure to select both the day and Block your child would like to attend. Block I and Block II may be attended on the same day or on two different days. Registration for each Block I and Block II session should be completed separately. Participants may only attend Block I or Block II once. Walk-in registration is not permitted for this program. If you have questions, please call 816-228-3766.
|
28505 E. Truman Road, Landahl Park, Buckner, MO 64016
Located on 60 acres of forests and fields near Blue Springs, Missouri, six miles north of I-70 on MO 7 and two miles east of MO 7 on Truman Road in Landahl Park. Facilities include an outdoor education center, archery, pistol, rifle and shotgun ranges, including skeet and trap.
|
HOURS:
May 1–September 15
Wednesday–Sunday: Noon–6 PM
September 16–April 30
Wednesday–Sunday: Noon–4:30 PM
Closed Monday and Tuesday and all state holidays.
FACILITIES AND FEES:
Available for individual or group use. Call for information and possible restrictions.
• Rifle/Pistol range: $3 booth per hour
• Trap/Skeet: $3 per round
• Archery range: $3 per person per hour
• Shotgun pattern: $3 per person per hour
TO REGISTER FOR A PROGRAM: Programs are free. Register online by clicking the event links below or at: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/link/lake-city-shooting-range-events.
If you are unable to attend a program, please call us at 816-249-3194 and cancel as a courtesy.
Shotgun – 5-Stand
May 11 ∙ Saturday ∙ 9–11:30 AM
Registration required (ages 12+)
This program is designed for those who have had some experience with shotguns. We’ll 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 can bring your own.
Handgun Basics
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 9–11:30 AM
Registration required (ages 11+)
This program includes handgun safety, operation, shooting fundamentals, maintenance and safe storage. Equipment and ammunition will be provided; you may bring your own firearm and ammunition to the live-fire session
Archery Basics
May 25 ∙ Saturday ∙ 9–11:30 AM
Registration required (ages 11+)
This program includes archery safety, operation, shooting fundamentals, maintenance and safe storage. You may bring your own equipment to this program however, equipment will be provided.
Women on the Range
June 1 ∙ Saturday ∙ 8 AM–4 PM
Registration required began April 1 (women ages 18+)
This program is a safe and fun way for women to enjoy a day of shooting in a friendly, safe environment. This all-day event will cover everything from rifles and pistols to shotguns and archery. It is a great way to introduce you and others to the sport of shooting and to the different shooting disciplines offered. The one-on-one coaching offered by Lake City staff will give you the support needed to obtain the skills of a basic shooter and give you a better understanding of what the shooting sports can offer you. Lunch will not be provided, so please bring your own lunch/snacks. Refreshments will be provided.
15900 NW River Rd., PO Box 14024, Parkville, MO 64152
|
Located in Platte County, Missouri. Go west of downtown Parkville on Route FF to River Road, then west 3 miles to the entrance located just west of I-435. Facilities are available for individual or group use and include a rifle/pistol/shotgun range and archery range.
|
|
HOURS:
May 1–September 30
Monday and Tuesday: 2 PM–8 PM
Friday–Sunday: 10 AM–4 PM
October 1–April 30
Friday–Tuesday: Noon–4:30 PM
Closed Wednesday and Thursday and all state holidays.
FACILITIES AND FEES:
• Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun/Range: $3 booth per hour
• Archery range: $3 per person per hour
TO REGISTER FOR A PROGRAM: Programs are free. Register online by clicking the event links below or at: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/link/parwa-woods-shooting-range-events. If you are unable to attend a program, please call us at 816-891-9941 and cancel as a courtesy.
Introduction to Birding
May 11 ∙ Saturday ∙ 8:30–11:30 AM
Registration required (all ages)
Birds are some of the most colorful and vocal animals in the world. With over 400 species recorded in Missouri, learning to identify them can present a challenge. Let our experienced staff guide you as we learn the fundamentals of bird ID then head to the woods to see what we can see.
Fishing on the Missouri River
May 15 ∙ Wednesday ∙ 6–9 PM
Registration required (ages 11+; ages 11–15 must be accompanied by an adult)
The Missouri River travels just over 552 miles in Missouri making it the longest and one of the most underutilized fishing spots in the entire state. The dark, muddy water combined with a relatively strong current present a unique fishing experience. Attend this introductory seminar for fishing on the Mighty MO. Topics we’ll discuss include river safety, access and navigation as well as where to find fish, equipment needs and more.
Archery – Basics
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 8–10 AM
Registration required (ages 8+; ages 8–15 must be accompanied by an adult)
This program includes archery safety, operation, shooting fundamentals, maintenance and safe storage. You may bring your own equipment to this program; however, equipment will be provided.
Rifle – Basics
May 22 ∙ Wednesday ∙ 5:30–8:30 PM
Registration required (ages 11+; ages 11–17 must be accompanied by an adult)
This program includes handgun safety, operation, shooting fundamentals, maintenance and safe storage. Equipment and ammunition will be provided; you may bring your own firearm and ammunition to the live-fire session.
4750 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64110
Located in Kansas City, Missouri, just east of the Plaza near 47th and Troost. Six hands-on workshops explore Missouri’s fish, forest and wildlife with a Lewis and Clark theme. Discovery Center is a showcase for environmental architecture with four acres of native landscaping. Buy books and hunting/fishing permits at the gift shop.
|
HOURS:
Monday–Friday: 8 AM–5 PM
1st and 3rd Tuesdays: 8 AM–7 PM
1st and 3rd Saturdays: 9 AM–4 PM
Closed all state holidays.
TO REGISTER FOR A PROGRAM: Programs are free. Register online by clicking the event links below or at: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/link/discovery-center-events. If you are unable to attend a program, please call us at 816-759-7300 and cancel as a courtesy.
Little Acorns
May 4 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10–11 AM or 1–2 PM
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10–11 AM, 11 AM–Noon or 1–2 PM
Walk-in (ages 3–8; all welcome)
Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books. Children will participate in a hands-on nature activity.
|
|
Why Should I Walk? I Can Fly!
May 4 ∙ Saturday ∙ 11 AM–Noon
Walk-in (ages 3–8; all welcome)
Ann Ingalls is a local children's author with over three dozen books in print or forthcoming. She will present one of her new books, Why Should I Walk? I Can Fly! All of Ann's life, she dreamed she could fly. The closest she has ever come is to ride a zipline. A little bird, a big sky and the first time out of the nest! A fledgling robin’s first flight is a gentle reminder about what we can accomplish if we just keep trying. Ann sums it up this way, “All young creatures take risks, which is one of the reasons I think this story holds appeal for children–they take risks every day.” Come join us to learn a bit about flying! Books will be available from Rainy Day Books for purchase. |
Woodworking for Wildlife: Wren Houses
May 4 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10–11:30 AM or 12:30–2:00 PM
Registration required began April 8 (ages 10+)
Missourians welcome the energetic and exuberant house wren each spring. This small summer resident is a common backyard bird and will utilize abandoned woodpecker holes, bird boxes and other cavities for its habitat. Building your own wren box is a rewarding nature experience. Make plans to take part in one of these woodworking sessions where you will construct your own wren box and learn where to place it in your backyard.
SeedSavers–KC Plant Exchange 2019
May 4 ∙ Saturday ∙ 9:30 AM–Noon
Walk-in (all ages)
It is time to swap your plants! All plants must be potted, labeled and in good health-no wilted plants allowed. Please consult invasive plant species of MO lists and do not bring invasive species. Herbs, vegetables, annuals, flowers, biennials, perennials, vines, shrubs, trees, fruit bearing seeds and extra garden tools you don’t need are permissible. Trade five plants you bring for five new ones-no limits on amount you can bring. Check in at the sign in desk to have your plants checked for approval to trade. Plants that are not approved do not receive trade credit, please understand our rules and abide by them. It is best to pot the plants up at least two weeks prior to the event. Experienced gardeners may be able to bring wilted plants back to life, but many coming don’t have those talents. Let’s get some dirt under our nails.
Wild Edibles! Weeds, Seeds and More!
May 7 ∙ Tuesday ∙ 6–8 PM
Registration required (adults)
The spring flora and fauna will be our backdrop for this unique dining experience as we savor the bounty of a wild spring harvest, sip wild native tea and enjoy a sweet wild edible dessert. Join us for an evening of fun learning more about the habitats around us that provide delicious culinary opportunities. Registration is not complete unless we receive your $20.00 refundable deposit within one week of registration.
Scout Program
May 7 ∙ Tuesday ∙ Evening
May 21 ∙ Tuesday ∙ Evening
Registration required (Scouts)
Scout leaders, are you lacking expertise or equipment to complete conservation badges? Bring your troop to the Discovery Center and education staff will provide a program to help Scouts with rank achievement. All Missouri Scout groups of 10-24 participants are welcome to schedule a free program. Please contact Steve Jacobsen at (816) 759-7305 ext. 1146 or steve.jacobsen@mdc.mo.gov to learn more about how we can help and to schedule a program.
Nature Art
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10 AM–2:30 PM
Walk-in (all ages)
Nature provides incredible inspiration and one-of-a-kind art supplies. Join us as we explore the native habitats at the Discovery Center and gather stems, leaves, berries, nuts, grasses, feathers and other spring treasures. Step back inside to learn how to make uniquely textured paintbrushes and explore your creative side as you create your own unique nature art!
Adult Summer Camp: Catching, Cooking, Cleaning
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 7 AM–Noon
Registration required (adults)
Fishing is a terrific pastime that can provide for some delicious meals. Learn all you need to know about fishing, cleaning fish and cooking fish in this program. We’ll meet at a local public lake to wet our lines, fish until late morning, learn how to clean our catch and then have a bank-side fish lunch for all to share. All equipment will be provided, but participants are encouraged to have a valid Missouri fishing permit to attend.
Native Plant Sale
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 9:30 AM–2:30 PM
Walk-in (all ages)
The Missouri Prairie Foundation (MPF) will be on site to offer a native plant sale. Grow Native! vendors will be on hand with a wide selection of native flowers, grasses, sedges, shrubs and trees for a variety of growing conditions. Vendors will contribute a percentage of plant sale proceeds to benefit MPF’s prairie conservation in Missouri. Visit https://www.moprairie.org for participating vendors and information about preordering.
Legends of Conservation presents:
Ding Darling with Tom Milligan as "Ding" Darling
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 11 AM–Noon
Walk-in (all ages)
Tom Milligan, as Jay N. “Ding” Darling, visits from his 11th floor office at the Des Moines Register, where he worked from 1906-1943. Beginning with his early years in Sioux City, where he became aware of the natural world around him, as well as his developing skills as an editorial cartoonist, he reflects upon his remarkable life journey. His story continues to include two Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoons for the Register and a remarkable career as a nationally known conservationist. From the introduction of the duck stamp to the creation of the National Wildlife Federation, Darling’s influence was felt, not only through his cartoons, but through his actions as well. Considered by many to be one of the most influential members of the modern conservation movement in the first half of the 20th century, the impact of his work is still felt today.
|
“Miniature Trees”: An Introduction to the Ancient Art of Bonsai
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 11 AM–Noon
Walk-in (ages 14+)
The translation of Bonsai simply means pot or tray planted. However, Bonsai is one of the oldest forms of ‘living’ art as trees and plants are grown in containers, artistically designed, but emphasizing its natural habitat qualities for the owners’ enjoyment. And whether you have a yard or a small apartment you can enjoy multiple plants in your environment. Any plant, that will produce a woody stem can be used, which of course includes native material and local nursery offerings. This presentation will provide a general overview. Topics discussed will include Chinese and Japanese origins, US Collection in DC and descriptions of Bonsai styles, tools, general horticulture procedures, pot selection and the design process. We will wrap up with a review of the various styles using slides featuring examples of different plants used in this unique art.
Exhibit–Ancient Art of Bonsai
May 18 ∙ Saturday ∙ 10AM–3PM
The Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City presents its 2019 Annual Spring Exhibit in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation. The translation of Bonsai simply means pot or tray planted. However, bonsai is one of the oldest forms of ‘living’ art as trees and plants are grown in containers and artistically designed for the viewers’ enjoyment. This formal display will include over 25 plants, from the quite small (under 8 in.) to large (over 24 in.) and potted in specialized ceramic containers. There will be deciduous and evergreen plants representing various genera, plants from different growing environments, as well as natives to our area. Hopefully the spring weather will also be cooperative which will mean several should be in bloom. Stop by the Lewis and Clark rooms to view this unique display and visit with the members of the society or watch ongoing work demonstrations.
Missouri River Sunset Float Trip
June 15 ∙ Saturday ∙ 7–10 PM
Registration required began April 22 (adults)
Mandatory Orientation: June 4 from 6–8 PM in Swope Park. Logistics of this float, Missouri River navigation and paddle techniques will be covered in this session.
The Float: There is magic in the night as we experience the lively lights of Kansas City twinkling with the moon and stars on the Missouri River after dark, creating a masterpiece you will not soon forget! We will depart from Platte Landing Park in Parkville and leisurely paddle to the Kaw Point Access in the Fairfax district. Shuttle service will be provided. Presented in cooperation with the Missouri Humanities Council. Registration is not complete unless we receive your $20.00 refundable deposit within one week of registration.
|
 Big News:
Starting in July the Discovery Center will be open every Saturday! Look for even more exciting programs in the coming months.
|
