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.

From artist Terry Martin: "I was fortunate to grow up in Missouri, where there were lakes, streams, and rivers to explore. Mine is a state with a premier conservation effort! I had a bicycle and a fishing rod (a fortunate son!). As a boy, I was up at daylight each day and home when it got dark. I developed more and more of an interest in the wildlife and geography of my surroundings. I discovered artists like John James Audubon, Roger Tory Peterson, Maynard Reece, and fellow Missourian Charles W. Schwartz. Also of great influence were naturalists John Muir, Marlin Perkins, and Robert Bateman."

Terry Martin's art will be on exhibit in the Runge lobby until April 30. No registration required. All ages

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

Artwork on display in lobby.

River Region Photography Association presents "The Visions of Nature."

The members of the R.R.P.A. enjoy spending time in the natural areas of Missouri, photographing the flora, fauna and landscapes that make the state unique. Please enjoy their visions, then go out and enjoy your own piece of nature.

Stop by anytime this month to see this exhibit.

Discover what’s for dinner at Burr Oak Woods as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. The snakes are fed on the second and fourth Wednesday (Apr 10th & 24th).

Discover what’s for dinner at Burr Oak Woods as the captive amphibians, fish, and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. The snakes are fed on the second and fourth Wednesday (April 10 & 24).

Carnivore, Herbivore, or Omnivore? Let’s learn all about what, how, and why Missouri mammals are eating! Together we’ll investigate a few awesome animals, looking at their teeth, their habitat and their scat to determine what they might be eating. Afterwards, each participant will be able to make and accessorize their very own slime to take home inspired by one of the animals they learned about.

All materials will be provided, including disposable gloves for slime making. It is recommended to bring an old t-shirt or smock for slime making.

Please register each individual who will be making slime. Parents who will not be making their own slime do not need to register. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Would you like to learn how to cook outdoors using a dutch oven? This is the program for you! Samples will be provided but not enough for a meal.

Basic Handgun Workshop. Participants will learn handgun parts and operation, ammunition, handgun safety, and shooting fundamentals. Participants will receive one-on-one shooting instruction. This workshop and instruction is offered free of charge. Handguns and ammunition will be provided by MDC. Participants are welcome to bring their own unloaded, cased handguns but will be required to provide their own new factory ammunition (no reloads). This workshop is open to participants 18 and over. Teenagers age 14 to 17 may attend with a parent or guardian who is also registered for the workshop.