JEFFERSON CITY—Senator Gina Walsh, D-Bellefontaine Neighbors, encourages residents of the 13th District to take advantage of a number of free, local Department of Conservation (MDC) events held in March.
“The Missouri Department of Conservation provides our state citizens with the opportunity to enjoy many great activities at no charge,” said Sen. Walsh. “Whether you’re looking for an inexpensive activity for yourself, a small group of friends or your whole family, the conservation department really goes out of its way to offer fun, educational events that are also affordable. I strongly encourage area residents to take advantage of these wonderful programs.”
The following events will be held at the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area in March:
- It's That "Tine" of Year! (Experienced)
Date: Sunday, March 1
Time: Noon to 3 p.m.
Ages: 8 and up
It's That "Tine"of Year! (Beginner)
Date: Sunday, March 1
Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Ages: 8 and up
Join us for the fourth annual shed hunt at Columbia Bottom to learn about the highly sought after and elusive antler. Discover what it is, how it grows, its uses and, most importantly, how to find one as it “tipically” fades into the landscape. This “tine” only comes around once a year, so don’t miss it. Programs begin at the Visitor Center. Reservations begin Feb. 13.
Date: Friday, March 6
Time: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 7 and up
The wetlands at Columbia Bottom are a great example of how the MDC works to sustain healthy forests, fish and wildlife. With migration at its peak, the sights and sounds of visiting waterfowl mingle with those of resident amphibians. Experience our favorite chorus as we walk by the light of the full moon. Dress for the weather, and wear shoes or boots that can get muddy. Meet at the Visitor Center to car pool to the walk site. Reservations run Feb. 18 through March 4.
Date: Friday, March 13
Time: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Ages: All
Bring your flashlight and dress for the weather as we explore the Columbia Bottom wetlands, where the mysteries of amphibian life are revealed. Meet at the Visitor Center to learn about their unique life cycle, before heading outside to identify species by listening for their calls. Reservations begin Feb. 27.
- 7th Annual Confluence Trash Bash!
Date: Saturday, March 21
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ages: Most ages
Have fun while serving nature and people at Confluence Trash Bash. Together, with a host of partners, we’ll have fun as we clean up areas around the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. For more information and registration, go to www.greenwaynetwork.org. Need group transportation to the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge? Contact Colleen Scott by Monday, March 9, at (314) 877-6014 ext. 4241. Busses will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations required.
Date: Tuesday, March 24
Time: 10 a.m. to Noon
Ages: 18 and younger
Spring has sprung and Mother Nature is gearing up to put on a beautiful show, so let’s capture it with our cameras. Meet at the Visitor Center to go over some beginner tips and tricks of photography. We’ll then venture out to witness Mother Nature’s finest work. Bring any camera you like, and dress for the weather. Reservations begin March 11.
- Dresser Island Pelican Walk
Date: Saturday, March 28
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ages: 10 and up
Conservation makes Missouri not only a great place to hunt and fish, but also gives us the opportunity to enrich our quality of life as we discover nature. Dresser Island, on the Mississippi River, is just the place to do that. Walk with us to view spring migrants such as pelicans, ducks, eagles and trumpeter swans. Dress for the weather, and wear shoes that can get muddy. We will walk up to four miles. Bring a water bottle and snack. Viewing scopes will be provided. Bring binoculars and field guides if you like. Reservations run March 11 through March 25.
To make event reservations, call (314) 877-6014, Wednesday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is in north St. Louis County at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. To reach the area, go north approximately 2.8 miles from the I-270 Riverview Drive exit. Riverview Drive becomes Columbia Bottom Road at its intersection with Larimore Road.
Senator Walsh regularly informs 13th District residents of upcoming local events held by state agencies. To subscribe to her regular legislative and district updates, click here or visit her Missouri Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/walsh. |
