Kansas City, Mo. – Get Ready to Explore the Wonders of Deer Fat!
As the winter chill kicks in and the deer hunting season heats up, it’s time to think beyond just the meat on your hunt! With the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encouraging hunters to leverage every part of their deer harvest, one exciting opportunity is knocking on your door — or rather, your freezer!
What’s the Big Deal About Deer Fat?
When you think of deer, you probably picture a delicious roast or some mouth-watering sausages. But did you know that deer fat can be turned into tallow? This magical substance isn’t just good for frying up a storm; it can also be transformed into useful and fun household items like heel balm, candles, and even firestarters! The MDC is hosting a series of free classes in February that will show you how to put that hard-tack fat to good use.
Join the Classes and Get Crafty!
Whether you’re a first-time hunter or a seasoned pro, these hands-on classes are an excellent way to get more from your harvest. By learning to render deer fat into tallow, you’ll not only expand your skill set but also walk away with some nifty creations.
Mark your calendars! Here are some of the classes you can join:
- February 3: 1:30 — 3 p.m. at Remington Nature Center, St. Joseph. Register here.
- February 3: 6 — 7:30 p.m. at Litton Ag Center, Chillicothe. Sign up here.
- February 4: 10:30 a.m. — 12 p.m. at Lake City Shooting Range, Buckner. Register now.
- February 4: 1:30 — 3 p.m. at Lake City Shooting Range, Buckner. Sign up here.
- February 5: 9 — 10:30 a.m. at the Clinton MDC office. Register today.
- February 5: 3 — 4:30 p.m. at the El Dorado Springs MDC office. Don’t miss out!
Remember, registration is required, and for those under 16, don’t forget to bring an adult along! Participants are encouraged to bring along frozen deer fat to ensure hands-on experience.
Dress Code for Fun!
Here’s a friendly tip — come dressed in old clothes, as the class can get a little messy. Don’t forget the rubber gloves and a washable apron to protect your stylish attire! Once the crafting is complete, you’ll take home your very own heel balm, candle, and firestarter. How cool is that?
Reach Out for More Information!
If you have any questions about the classes or want to know more about what to expect, feel free to reach out to Ginger Miller, the Conservation Educator at the MDC. You can reach her via email at Ginger.Miller@mdc.mo.gov. She’s here to help you make the most of your deer harvest!
So why not roll up your sleeves this winter and engage in some environmentally conscious crafting? It’s a great way to connect with nature, learn something new, and produce some delightful items to enjoy at home or share with friends. Happy hunting and even happier crafting!
