Natural Fun

Missouri is a beautiful state consisting of plains and rolling hills, lakes and roaring rivers, forests and varied wildlife. Not only are we blessed to live in this gorgeous state but we are blessed to have a conservation department that helps maintain that beauty and encourages us to enjoy all the natural offerings of our state. Our conservation departments mission statement is to protect and manage the fish, forest and wildlife resources of the state; to serve the public and facilitate their participation in resource management activities; and to provide opportunity for all citizens to use, enjoy, and learn about fish, forest, and wildlife resources. And, boy, do they do a good job! Walking the trails at our closest nature center is one of our favorite family activities. But the last two Saturdays have found us at the nature center doing more than hiking. One Saturday they offered virtual fishing and Bishop took advantage of it. He had a great time "reeling in" bass and trout. Those fish sure can put up a good fight.

The following Saturday they offered a fly-tying demonstration. It was fascinating to learn how bits of feather, yarn and thread could imitate insects or other food that would fool a fish. The member's of The Missouri Trout Fishermen's Association enthusiastically shared their hobby and knowledge with us. Bishop is now excited about learning fly-tying and fly fishing and we have all the information we need in order to pursue these new interests.