(Joplin, MO) – This month, the Wildcat Glades Nature Group along with other partners, will be hosting a Preschool Connections program, our Nature Explorers program and Textile Fiber Art Class. They will also continue to work on their Habitat Restoration project along the trails at Wildcat Park.
Wildcat Park Habitat Restoration Initiative & KCU Student Trail Initiative
Various dates throughout the month | Ongoing project – check Facebook page for workday schedule
Wildcat Glades Nature Group, in partnership with Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), continues to have work days to remove invasive species out at Wildcat Park. Invasive species are detrimental to native plants and wildlife in the Park. Removing the invasive species provides better habitat for plants and animals, and in turn, benefits us. The Restoration Plan is an ongoing project that will be carried out over the next ten years. The work days are completed by Wildcat volunteers, representatives from MSSU, and Wildcat staff. Workdays are held nearly every Thursday or Saturday during the year.
Trail Rehabilitation Workday
Saturday, October 4 | 9:00 am to 12:00 pm | Ages 18+ | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage
Help enhance the Wildcat trails by volunteering for the Trail Widening Workdays! Join fellow trail enthusiasts as everyone works together to improve accessibility and safety along Wildcat’s scenic routes. Your efforts will help ensure that Wildcat trails remain a welcoming, well-maintained space for all those who love the outdoors.
Please remember to wear sunscreen and apply bug spray and don’t forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the morning. This event is open to adults ages 18 and up.
Learn more and sign up to help here.
Nature Journaling
Sunday, October 5 | 2:00 pm | Ages 16+ | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage | Taught by local artist Ash Srinual
A nature journal is a way to focus our attention and crystalize our observations, thoughts, and experiences. Join local artist Ash Srinual and learn the skills needed to expand your natural curiosity and see the little secrets of the natural world! You don’t need to be an artist or a naturalist to begin. Just bring a sketchbook or notebook, a pencil, and a sense of curiosity.
This class size is limited. To register, click here or email sara@wildcatglades.org.
Creepy & Crawlie Pictures
Sunday, October 12 | 1:00 to 6:00 pm | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage | $25
Get ready to unleash your adventurous spirit with this fun photo opp!
Whether you’re a daring daredevil or just a bit curious, this is your chance to strike a pose with some amazing creatures like snakes, spiders, and salamanders. Join professional photographer Brad Mace for an unforgettable photo session that will be the talk of all your friends. And guess what? It’s only $25 with every penny going directly to support Wildcat Glades.
So, why not make some wild memories while helping a great cause? But don’t wait too long! Spaces are limited, and you must pre-register to secure your spot. Sign up here.
Preschool Connections: Pumpkins!!!
Wednesday, October 15 @ 10:00 am | Saturday, October 18 @ 1:00 pm | Ages three to seven, accompanied by an adult | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage | Sponsored by Calvin Cassidy
At this month’s Preschool Connections, attendees will learn about pumpkins in various shapes and sizes — round, squat, tall, and even a few delightfully lumpy ones. The preschool class will dive into the world of pumpkins, an engaging topic that blends art, science, storytelling, and sensory play. The children who attend will gather on a cozy rug as Wildcat’s own Ms. Vicki introduces the storybook Spooky, the Square Pumpkin. Kiddos will also be able to decorate their own pumpkin to take home.
Make sure to register your littles by clicking here or email sara@wildcatglades.org.
Ghostly Glades: Glow Trails & Fairy Tales
Friday, October 24 @ 6:00 pm | Saturday, October 25 @ 4:30 pm | All ages welcome | Wildcat Park | Free to attend
Step into a wonder-filled evening as Ghostly Glades: Glowing Trails and Fairy Tales invites families to embark on a magical hike through a hidden portion of the Wildcat trails. Groups of 15 adventurers will be gathered, each group setting off on their journey every ten minutes.
Pre-registration is required. Make sure to save your spot here.
This event is made possible by the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center, Ozark Gateway Audubon Society Chapter, Chert Glades Master Naturalist Chapter, KCU students, and many community partners and Wildcat volunteers.
About Wildcat Glades Nature Group:
The Wildcat Glades Nature Group is dedicated to protecting the area known as Wildcat Park and the surrounding chert glade environment, habitat, and wildlife by promoting awareness and sustainability, providing education and recreation space and programs, and sponsoring nature-based activities.
Reference:
Robin Standridge, Executive Director
Wildcat Glades Nature Group
robin@wildcatglades.org
417.708.7713 or 417.629.3434, ext. 4540




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