Events

Raised on a farm in the Missouri river bottoms, Dan Brueggeman developed an early appreciation of wildlife and the out-of-doors. It wasn't until 1984 that the artist encountered his future vocation, when he met a decoy carver and was fascinated by the amount of realism obtainable in wood sculpture. Dan's first decoy, although it bears little resemblance to today's works, is still the most prized piece in his collection. In addition to the original waterfowl, Dan has expanded his focus to encompass songbirds, fish, game birds, mammals and raptors. He has been honored with numerous awards, including several "Best of Show" awards. His carvings currently grace many private and corporate art collections. The exhibition is located in the west wing at Runge and can be viewed through June 30, 2024.

Agents of Discovery is a mobile app game that takes your visit to Runge to another dimension! As an Agent, your mission is a scavenger hunt played on your phone to discover different things animals do in spring. Explore the exhibits in the nature center to find QR codes with info and questions about animals. Find all the QR codes in the scavenger hunt and answer all questions to win. Then come to the front desk to claim your prize! No registration required. All ages

Are you interested in learning about black bear hunting in Missouri? This introductory class teaches you about Missouri black bears and what it takes to have a successful bear hunt. Topics included in this class are black bear biology, the permit application process, and general black bear hunting strategies. This class is suitable for Missourians trying to decide whether they should apply for a black bear hunting permit or those simply interested in learning more about black bear hunting.

A link for the program will be sent via email on the day of the course. Please make sure you check your Junk folder.

Are you interested in learning about black bear hunting in Missouri? This introductory class teaches you about Missouri black bears and what it takes to have a successful bear hunt. Topics included in this class are black bear biology, the permit application process, and general black bear hunting strategies. This class is suitable for Missourians trying to decide whether they should apply for a black bear hunting permit or those simply interested in learning more about black bear hunting.

This meeting/program is open to the public. No registration required. Check out the group's Facebook page for the program topic.

Join MDC naturalists and area birders as we discover the avian life that calls Runge home. These short birding walks are for all experience levels. We will gather near the front doors of the nature center. Binoculars and field guides will be provided for those that need them. Registration preferred. Ages 8+

Put on your hiking shoes and join us for a guided hike of Spring Creek Gap Conservation Area (Maries County); 6 miles – difficult. 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+

Catch and Release fishing from Hatchery ponds. Event will be located at the Hatchery Office. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Fishing poles and lures will be provided for those that need them.

To sign up a child, you will have to click "Create an Account" for each child who plans to attend if they do not already have one. This account will be good for any future events as well. You may also add the child's account(s) to your "group account" for easier future management.

For questions or more information contact Blind Pony Hatchery at 660-335-4531.

Join us for beginner kayaking and a relaxing time on the water. During this kayaking program you will learn about paddling equipment, paddling safety, and how to paddle a kayak on a lake. Life jackets, kayaks, and paddles will be provided. Bring a bottle of water, sunscreen, and closed toed shoes that can get wet. We will meet at the boat ramp area at Teal Lake off Huntingfield Rd in Mexico. Minimum age to participate is 9 years old. Participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Join us in exploring the natural wonders inside Hunter’s Cave at Three Creeks Conservation Area (Boone County). Pack a water bottle and dress for the weather; an additional layer may be desired as cave temperatures are usually 55-57 degrees Fahrenheit. Participants will be walking in water so rubber boots or closed-toe shoes that can get wet are required. Hard hats and flashlights provided, but feel free to bring your own. Access to the cave requires a 15-minute hike in hilly, at times steep terrain and entering a small gate with an opening that is approximately three feet tall by two feet wide. Transportation from Runge will not be provided. Participants will meet at Three Creeks. Details, including directions on where to meet, will be emailed in advance. Registration required. Ages 18+