JEFFERSON CITY — Senator Gina Walsh, D-Bellefontaine Neighbors, encourages residents of the 13th District to take advantage of a free Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) event to be held later this month.

“Missouri truly has one of the best conservation departments in the country, frequently hosting fun and free events for people of all ages,” Sen. Walsh said. “These events are a great way to see all the beautiful sights nature has to offer, which this month includes the rather uncommon ‘blue moon.’”

The following event will be held at the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area in July:

• Once in a Blue Moon Sunset Walk

Date: Friday, July 31
Time: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Ages: 7 and up

The second full moon occurring in a month is commonly called a “blue moon.” It happens only every two to three years. The sun sets and the “blue moon” rises within a few minutes of each other. Bring your camera to catch the vivid colors as the sun sets over the prairie. Then we will walk to the Confluence to experience the rising “blue moon” as it reflects on the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. We help you discover as we look and listen for nature’s “night shift” creatures along the way. Meet at the Slough, parking lot “M”, about four miles from the front entrance. To make reservation, 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. Reservations begin July 15 and end July 29.

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.