JEFFERSON CITY — The Twin Pines Conservation Education Center, located in the 25th District, represented by Sen. Doug Libla, R-Poplar Bluff, has announced several upcoming events for citizens during the fall months who are interested in a variety of outdoor activities.

“Autumn is a great time for citizens around the Ozark area to enjoy our beautiful lakes, rivers and timberland,” said Sen. Libla.  “The vast array of fall colors transforms our area of the state, making traditional outdoor activities, such as hunting, hiking, fishing, camping or floating, a new experience to share with family and friends.”

Discover Nature: Wildthings-Nature Creations
Nov. 2, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
This workshop allows individuals to bring the beauty of the indoors inside by making your own “Nature Creation,” such as natural ornaments.  Creative materials are provided and reservations are required.  This workshop is limited to 25 participants.  Please make your reservations by Oct. 31.

Discover Nature: Little Stinker’s Story Time
Nov. 14, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
This month’s story, “If You Were a Bear,” is followed by a fun activity where participants can make a bear pouch and join in the Honey Pot game.  Reservations are also required for this activity; please call by Nov. 12.

Discover Nature: Kid’s Gigging with the Conservation Department
Dec. 7, 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Children who are eager to develop a new skill and enjoy an evening on the river should sign up for this program.  Participants will meet at Twin Pines for an introductory lesson on the finer points of gigging – hunting small game with a gig or spear – and then they will have a chance to practice their skills on the river.  Those who are successful will even have an opportunity to prepare and cook their evening’s catch at the fish fry.  The event is limited to ages 18 and under and reservations are required; reservations begin Nov. 7.

Discover Nature: Gourd Bird House Workshop
Dec. 14, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
This time of year is a great time to prepare for the spring nesting season by making a gourd bird house.  This activity allows participants to learn how to construct a bird house and find out more about the birds that will use them.  The workshop is limited to 20 individuals.  Reservations are required and begin Nov. 14.

Self-guided driving tours are also available at the Peck Ranch Conservation Area.  The tour starts at the office and is marked for motorists along the way.  Those interested in viewing wildlife should start their tours in the early morning or late afternoon.  Peck Ranch is located near Winona in Shannon County with entrances off both Route 19 and Route 60.  It’s open sunrise to sunset, seven days a week, except during managed deer hunts, fall firearms deer season, and in the event roads are closed due to the weather.  Please note the refuge portion of the area, including part of the elk driving route, will be closed Nov. 1-3, 16-26, and Dec. 7-8.

Twin Pines Conservation Education Center is located on Highway 60, 1.3 miles east of the junction with Highway 19 (north) in Winona.  It’s open Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and is closed Sunday and Monday.  To make your reservation for these workshops or to learn more about the Twin Pines Conservation Education Center, please call (573) 325-1381.