Free Family Friendly Activities Sponsored by the Joplin, Mo Dept of Conservation Office

As always I am on the look-out for free events in my area to share with others. The New Year will be no different and I vow to try to keep others posted about free local events.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is a wonderful resource for educational, fun, and family orientated activities. The best part is that most of these events are free and cost you nothing but the time it takes to call for reservations.

So let's get started with the family activities available for the month of January from The MO Department of Conservation. Remember all you have to do to register for any of these programs below is call the Joplin Conservation Office at 417-629-3423.

Friday January, 8 -- 4 pm

Short - Eared Owl hike

For a limited time Short-Eared Owls will be in the area. Dress for the weather as this will be a prairie hike. All ages are recommended for this and the group will meet at Wildcat Park. The group will then carpool to another site that will be determined by Conservation Officials.

Monday January, 18 -- 1 - 3:30 pm

Winter Ecology Hike

Get ready for a strenuous hike in the Ozark Mountains at Big Sugar Creek State Park in Pineville. See how the animals interact with the winter world. Be sure to dress for the weather!

Saturday(9 am - 4 pm) & Sunday(11am - 4pm) January, 23-24

Eagle Days

No registration is required for this event and will be held at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center. The event will include live Eagle programs, exhibits, activities, video guides with spotting scopes, and refreshments. Come enjoy all the activities as you learn about Eagles.

Monday January, 25 -- 6 pm

Missouri Master Naturalists Orientation Meeting

If you are interested in becoming a master naturalist this meeting is a must. Attendees will be introduced to the organization and learn about the 12-week class required to become a member. This event will be held at the Walter Woods Conservation Area and is only for adults ages 18 and up.

Enjoy the nature and beauty that is abounding right before your eyes in every season. The outdoors has so much to offer to those who seek its calming properties. It can be refreshing for the spirit, soul, body, mind and for every member of the family. Get up and outside to enjoy nature with the family. This will also help instill a life-long love of nature in children, as they lead from your example.

SOURCES:

Personal Experience

Missouri Department of Conservation

Joplin Office

201 W. Riviera Dr. Suite B

Joplin, MO 64804

417-629-3423