Learn how to paint a flowering dogwood at MDC virtual program

March 29, 2022 at 3:00 am KJFM Radio

MISSOURI — One of the eye-catching events of spring is when Missouri’s state tree – the flowering dogwood – starts to bloom.

People can celebrate this annual event by painting a picture of a flowering dogwood at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Nature Art: Missouri State Symbols Painting Series.” This online program, which will be from 5:30-7 p.m. on April 8, is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center in Branson. This program is open to all ages. People can register for this program at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/183374

At this program, MDC volunteer Gala Keller will provide step-by-step painting instructions on how to paint this beautiful tree, which in addition to being the state tree of Missouri, is also the state tree and state flower of Virginia, the state flower of North Carolina, and the state memorial tree of New Jersey. While the painting is taking place, MDC Administrative Specialist Ashlee Huerta will have interesting facts about this tree and its preferred habitat. Participants will furnish their own painting supplies. Small canvases and simple techniques will be used; no painting experience is necessary. The April 8 program is the second in a series of programs put on by the Shepherd of the Hills staff in which people will get a chance to paint and learn about Missouri’s state symbols.

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate using the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. For this program, only one registration will be needed per screen for multiple participants at the same location.

The Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center is part of MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery and is located at 483 Hatchery Road on the west end of Lake Taneycomo near Branson.

People can stay informed about upcoming programs at the Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center and other nearby MDC facilities by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the Shepherd of the Hills or who want information about upcoming events can call 417-334-4865, ext. 0.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.