For Immediate Release:
March 23, 2015		 Contact: (573) 751-2420

Conservation Department to Host
Free Events for 13th District Families in April

JEFFERSON CITY—Senator Gina Walsh, D-Bellefontaine Neighbors, urges residents and families of the 13th District to consider attending one of the free April events held by the state Department of Conservation (MDC).

“Many families are on tight budgets these days, and it can be hard to find fun activities that are also affordable. Luckily, MDC is dedicated to providing fun, educational events at no cost to families,” said Sen. Walsh. “I strongly encourage constituents in our area to get outside, enjoy the warmer weather and take advantage of these great upcoming programs.”

The following events will be held at the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area in April:

  • It's Not too Late to Plant Natives

Date: Saturday, April 11
Time: 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Ages: 10 and up 

Earth Day is coming soon, but it’s still not too late. Savvy gardeners have discovered native plants with their vibrant colors, textural variety and changing seasonal interest add richness to home landscapes. These plants, adapted to our climate and soils, benefit us and the environment by attracting birds, bees, butterflies and other colorful wildlife. We’ll give you some tips and show you where to find nurseries and sales of ready-to-plant native plants, trees and shrubs. Then, all you have to do is discover nature by enhancing your own back yard.  Registration runs March 25 through April 8.

 

  • Golden Hour Photo Op at the Confluence

Date: Sunday, April 19
Time: 5:45 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.
Ages: 15 and up 

Take advantage of the “golden hour” to discover nature at the Confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. We’ll walk the River’s Edge Trail in the fresh spring greenery, listen for the drumming of woodpeckers and the gobbling of turkeys and watch for migrating waterfowl and song birds as the morning sun rises. Bring your camera, so you can share some of your photos with us. We’d like to display them in the Visitor Center. Meet at the front gate. Reservations run April 5 through April 17.

 

  • Columbia Bottom Geocache/Cleanup

Date: Saturday, April 25

Time: 10 a.m. to Noon

Ages: All 

Celebrate Earth Day by joining the Saint Louis Area Geocaching Association (SLAGA) for a CITO event. CITO stands for Cache In, Trash Out. It’s a way for people who geocache to help their communities and natural areas by picking up litter. You do not need to be a member of SLAGA or a geocacher to participate. You don’t even need to know what geocaching is. You can learn all about this fun outdoor hobby while you’re here. All you need is a willingness to help Mother Earth. We will provide the equipment. Meet at Parking Lot O (canoe/kayak access area), N 38° 47.750 W 090° 08.020. No reservations necessary.

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.