Free online program will have helpful information for those wanting to see fall color.

Fall leaf color is one reason autumn is an enjoyable time of year in the Ozarks.

People can learn more about the science behind fall leaf color and get tips on some of the best places to see colorful fall foliage at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Naturalist Notes Virtual Series: Fall Color.” This free online program will be offered in morning and afternoon sessions on Oct. 19 and is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center.

People can sign up for the morning session, which will be from 10-10:30 a.m. at: https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/179731.

The afternoon session will be from 2-2:30 p.m. and can be registered for at: https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/179732.

At this program, MDC Naturalist Morgan Wyatt will have information on why leaves change colors and what colors are predominant in southern Missouri. Wyatt will also discuss the best time of fall and the best locations to see autumn color in southern Missouri. This program is open to all ages.

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate using the links above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. These programs will include chat-based question-and-answer periods where participants can interact with the presenter.

Program registrants should note that they now have the option to link their children’s accounts to their own, which will streamline the program registration process. Once a group account is set up, parents will be able to register their children for an event without having to log-off or log-in for each person. This allows parents to register an entire family or select family members for an event at the same time.

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