Outdoors

One of the best gardening tools may be in the home recycling bin, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Donna Aufdenberg, in a press release.

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center will present “Learning to Hunt: Shed Hunting” from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 15.

People can learn more about growing native plants from seeds at the Missouri Department of Conservation online program “Native Plants: Wild for Seeds.” This virtual program will be from 3:30 tp 4:30 p.m. March 7 and is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center. This program will not be recorded. mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/206443

The Smithville Bassmasters have announced their 2025 tournament schedule. The fishing club is also extending invites to new members to join in “for the camaraderie of competitive fishing.”

A virtual class from the Missouri Department of Conservation will be held from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 5 to learn how to design a simple rain garden, what species to plant and how to maintain it. Then, there will be an online trivia game played individually. No account or login is necessary to join the Blooket trivia game.

In recognition and celebration of Drinking Water Week, May 4 through 10, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the American Water Works Association — Missouri Section are holding a poster contest for fifth-grade students in Missouri. Entries must be postmarked by March 8.

Missouri turkey hunters can apply online during February for 2025 spring turkey managed hunts through the Missouri Department of Conservation website at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey/turkey-spring-managed-hunts.

The Missouri Department of Conservation recommends learning how to identify and remove known invasive plant species where possible this winter.

Gardening is an activity with many rewards, said Debi Kelly, state Master Gardener coordinator for University of Missouri Extension. MU Extension offers online training for those who can’t take weekly classes in person.

People can learn more about bird species that can be attracted to backyards at the Missouri Department of Conservation virtual program "Birds: Backyard Birds in Winter."