Hannibal Parks & Recreation is finding ways to communicate with residents and help them enjoy outdoors with virtual nature programs.

Gale Rublee, Hannibal Parks & Recreation nature interpreter, features several nature programs and hikes a month. Because of the need to stop groups from gathering, the programs were canceled.

Nature Moments with Gale will be posted on Hannibal Parks & Recreation website and social media sites.

Rublee said, “There will be seasonal observations like listening to the different frogs plus nature activities families can do right in their backyard like cloud watching, following insect trails, or making mud pies.”

The Nature Moments with Gale will be posted 2 or 3 times a week, some of the videos will be made from Hannibal’s 25 park properties and some will be from a backyard.

Hannibal Parks & Recreation has taken steps recently in an abundance of caution to reduce the spread of Covid-19. Playgrounds, shelters and restrooms are closed.

Mary Lynne Richards with Hannibal Parks & Recreation, said parks are open but social distancing must be observed. “Getting some fresh air can make a huge difference by improving your mental and physical health during this period.”