Explore the outdoors at Runge Nature Center this October

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to discover nature by visiting Runge Nature Center this October. Nature center staff have a variety of programs planned this fall to help people explore and enjoy nature. Programs include but are not limited to:

• Citizen Science Monarch Butterfly Tagging Oct. 8 from 2-4 p.m.: Join in a citizen science effort and help tag Monarch butterflies to track their journey south. Tagging consists of place tiny stickers, provided by MonarchWatch.org, on a captured Monarch’s wing. Drop by anytime during this event to participate in the efforts. No registration is required. Learn more at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ox6.
• Archery and Tomahawks Oct. 10 from 1-4 p.m.: Drop by and try two outdoor skills, archery and tomahawks, at this adventurous event. All ages are invited, and equipment will be provided. No registration is required. Learn more at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oxB.
• Wild Edibles Fall Foraging Oct. 17 from 1:30-3 p.m.: Search for edible greens, berries, nuts, and roots and sample your harvest with MDC staff at this free event designed for participants ages 16 and older. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oxL.
• Fall Birding Oct. 27 from 7:30-9:30 a.m.: Join MDC staff for a leisurely, guided walk suitable for all experience levels to search for the many bird species at Runge. As cooler temperatures settle into the Show-Me State, October is a great time to birdwatch. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oxE.

Runge Conservation Nature Center trails are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, and the nature center building is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The area is located at 330 Commerce Drive in Jefferson City.

MDC is committed to accessibility at all its nature centers, regional facilities, and conservation areas. To request an ADA accommodation for participation in MDC programs, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/accessibility.