The trails at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson city will be temporarily closed this weekend for a managed, archery-only deer hunt.
The Missouri Department of Conservation announced Tuesday the nature center's trails will be closed Friday through Sunday, during which time six hunters - selected through MDC's managed hunt system - will manage the deer population on the property.
"Neighbors and other Jefferson City residents have expressed interest in and support of this deer management effort," Wildlife Regional Supervisor John George said in MDC's news release.
"While we anticipate minimal numbers of deer to be harvested, we hope to also reduce car-deer accidents along Highway 179, which borders the property," George added.
Jefferson City has allowed archery deer hunting on private property since 2007, according to the news release.
Trail closures during the three-day hunt will ensure the safety of hunters and visitors.
Even though the trails will be closed this weekend, the main facility at Runge Nature Center will remain open during normal hours and will continue to offer nature programs and access to its library, wildlife viewing area and nature gift shop.
Programs scheduled for Saturday at the nature center include:
"Photographer Tim Ernst Presents: 'A Rare Quality of Light' and 'Arkansas Splendor,'" noon-1:30 p.m., for all ages. Two audio-visual slideshows will feature the work of Arkansas wilderness photographer Tim Ernst, followed by a question and answer session. The first slideshow will begin at noon, and the second at 12:30 p.m. No registration is required. More information is available at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/168012.
A presentation on how to skin and process harvested deer, covering techniques, safety tips and other questions, 1-4 p.m., ages 6 and older, though children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration is required, available online at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/170273.
The Runge Nature Center is located at 330 Commerce Drive and is free and open to the public. More information is available by calling 573-526-5544 or visiting mdc.mo.gov/runge.