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Native Plants
Last Light on Living Landscapes
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LOCATION & SCHEDULE

Meeting on: Located at:
Start Time End Time
Mount Vernon Prairie
Lawrence 1150
Mount Vernon, MO 65712
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Additional Information: Instructed by:
As autumn sweeps across the landscape, the prairie puts on its grand seasonal finale, swapping midsummer’s vibrant wildflower palette for a sweeping, rustling ocean of fiery bronze, amber, and deep gold. Join us for a magical evening stroll through Mount Vernon Prairie, perfectly timed to catch that ethereal October golden-hour glow! We’ll gather at 5:30 PM, stepping onto the prairie just as the crisp evening air settles in and nature's night shift begins to stir. This dreamy, slow-paced meander will feature: - Storytelling & Science with Naturalists: Uncover the secret life of a remnant prairie in autumn, from underground root survival strategies to the fascinating mechanics of seed dispersal. - Golden-Hour Magic for Photographers: Capture sun-drenched moments as warm October light settles across towering big bluestem, indian grass, and late-season asters. - Autumn Soundscapes: Pause and tune into the rich symphony of migrating songbirds, rustling grasses, and the cheerful chorus of fall insects. - Nature Detective Work: Spot the curious "clues of October" - tracking seed heads, cozy wildlife hideouts, and the shifting shadows of early autumn sunsets. We’ll wrap up around 7:30 PM, right as the twilight sky paints a dramatic closing scene over the prairie horizon. What to bring: Sturdy walking shoes (the prairie floor is delightfully untamed!), binoculars, and your camera or phone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photo hobbyist, or just someone looking for a little autumn magic, come chase the sunset with us! Please use a working email, as that is how updates and information will be communicated. See you on the prairie! Stacia Skinner

Directions:

From the I-44 and Highway 39 Junction in Mt. Vernon, take Highway 39 north 1 mile, then Highway 174 east 1.20 miles, then Lawrence 1150 north 1 mile, then Lawrence 2100 east, and Lawrence 1150 north again to the area.

Cancellation Policies:

You must cancel your registration before Thursday, October 1, 2026.

Age Policy:

All registrants for this event must be between 0 and 99 years of age by 10/1/2026.