You can learn about native plants that can be used to make colorful dyes at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) program “Native Plants: Wild Dyes” on Aug. 23. This free program runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center. The nature center is located in southeast Springfield at 4601 S. Nature Center Way. This program is designed for ages 12 and up.

MDC Naturalist Jordanya Raos will talk about a number of native plants that were used by Native Americans and early settlers to make inks and dyes and are still being used by some people today. She will demonstrate how to make dyes from some of these plants. All participants will have a chance to dye yarn. After a break for lunch to let the dyes set, the work with the yarn will continue. Participants should wear clothes that can get spotted and stained and close-toed shoes. All materials will be provided for this program.

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate. Register here: https://mdc.mo.gov/newsroom/learn-about-dyes-made-native-plants-aug-23-mdcs-springfield-nature-center