Laughter echoed through the Richmond High School gym as children aimed for bullseyes, reeled in plastic fish and reached out to touch the soft fur of Missouri’s wild animals. For the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), that excitement was exactly the point. The first-ever Ray County Conservation Family Night brought together 77 community members for an evening of hands-on exploration and connection with Missouri’s natural resources. From archery and fishing games to wildlife education and a live K-9 demonstration, families got an up-close look at the work of MDC and the wonders of the outdoors, without ever leaving the gym. “Overall, I think the event was a successful evening,” said Ray County Conservation Agent Claire Burch. “We were able to connect with 77 people in the community that may have never been impacted by the Missouri Department of Conservation.” The recently held featured multiple MDC-led stations designed to engage visitors of all ages. While Burch had hoped…