Event to Explore Missouri’s Unique Subsurface Ecosystem at Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is set to host an engaging family-friendly event on October 18, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., inviting locals to delve into the mysterious and often overlooked world of Missouri’s subterranean ecosystems during its annual Trek-N-Treat event. This year’s theme centers around the unique and sometimes eerie creatures that inhabit the state’s vast cave networks, offering an educational experience in an entertaining Halloween setting.
Southeast Missouri is renowned for its distinctive geological features, including numerous caves that provide a sanctuary for a variety of unique species such as white cavefish, cave salamanders, grotto sculpin, and various bat species. The Trek-N-Treat event, held at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center, aims to enlighten participants on the ecological significance of these creatures through interactive exhibits and characters. Attendees can expect to encounter costumed cave character guides who will narrate the vital roles these animals play in their ecosystems while distributing treats along the designated quarter-mile trail.
The event promises an engaging blend of education and fun, featuring educational displays, hands-on crafts, and interactive games that highlight the importance of cave conservation. MDC encourages participants to wear costumes and bring Halloween buckets, enhancing the festive spirit of the occasion. The trail is designed to be accessible for families with children and generally suitable for sport strollers, although participants should be prepared for some uneven terrain.
“Caves may seem spooky, but they are full of life, wonder, and unique species you won’t see anywhere else,” remarked Alex Holmes, the assistant manager of the MDC Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. “We look forward to welcoming families underground, inspiring curiosity, and showing why Missouri’s subsurface wildlife is worth celebrating.”
Importantly, the Trek-N-Treat event is free of charge and open to the public, with no prior registration required. This initiative not only seeks to captivate the imagination of children and families during the Halloween season but also aims to instill a reverence for Missouri’s natural heritage and the critical need for environmental stewardship. The MDC emphasizes the educational aspect of this event, reiterating the significance of understanding the diverse life forms that dwell in the depths beneath the surface.
For those interested in exploring Missouri’s natural wonders, this event offers a unique opportunity to combine fun and learning in a beautiful natural setting.
