Nov. 13 marks the opening of the annual winter “Catch and Release” no creel trout season at Montauk State Park. Fishing is allowed 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri.-Mon. The Dorman L. Steelman Lodge restaurant, snack bar and store will be open on Fri.-Sun., for limited hours of each weekend during the winter season to accommodate visitors. Some housekeeping cabins, motel rooms and a meeting room will be available throughout the winter season. The "Catch and Release" season ends Feb. 8, 2010.

A professional naturalist will conduct a guided tour of native wildflowers and other flora and fauna surrounding Fort Osage National Historic Landmark and along the banks of the Missouri River. Learn what species have survived since being first identified during the Lewis and Clark Expedition and how invasive plants are threatening the local ecosystem. Hiking shoes, camera and binoculars are recommended.

The prairie is alive and beautiful, even during the winter months. Learn how the prairie plants and animals survive winter.