Prescribed fire is a valuable tool that can help landowners achieve their land management goals and benefit native plants and wildlife at the same time.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a Prescribed Burn Workshop for landowners Thursday, April 24 from 6 – 9 p.m. at MDC’s St. Louis Regional Office, located on the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area.  This workshop is part of MDC’s commitment to work with landowners interested in learning how to properly and safely utilize prescribed fire to manage grasslands, prairies, woodlands, glades, and other natural communities on their land.

Participants will learn about burn equipment, burn line installation, safe weather parameters, ignition operations, and other techniques to safely conduct a prescribed burn.  The workshop will be taught by prescribed burn-certified MDC staff with an emphasis on the value and purpose of prescribed fire as a land management tool.  A demonstration burn will not be conducted.

The workshop is a prerequisite for having a burn plan developed by NRCS or MDC.  This course is not needed for those utilizing qualified contractors but is required for anyone planning to get cost share in the future and do the burn themselves.  It also meets the new requirements for Missouri House Bill 369 which went into effect in 2021.

The certification requires participants to take the online “Official Missouri Prescribed Burn Course” before attending the in-person portion. There is a $25 charge to a third-party host (not MDC) for the online portion and usually takes between 2 - 4 hours to complete. To register for the online portion, go to http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4zz. Attendees should bring their certificate of completion from the online course to the workshop.

The in-person Prescribed Burn Workshop is free; however, advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4jR.

The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area is in St. Charles at 2360 Highway D, two miles west of Highway 94. 

The 2025 Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP) State Archery Championship was held March 19-22 at the Branson Convention Center and drew more than 4,000 student archers in grades 4-12 from nearly 300 Missouri schools. The championship was sponsored and coordinated by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF).

The event included both a bullseye competition with 3,852 archers and a 3D competition with 1,770 archers, with some participants competing in both. Archers who ranked in the top 10 for their division, as well as the top ranked schools, will be eligible to move on to the Eastern or Western National Archery in the Schools (NASP) tournaments. The Western Nationals tournament will be held April 24-26 in Sandy, Utah, while the Eastern Nationals tournament will be held May 8-10 in Louisville, Ky.

“The turnout for MoNASP was fantastic as the program has grown in recent years,” said MDC MoNASP Coordinator Rob Garver. “We’re happy to see so many students enjoying the sport and seeing their confidence grow in their archery skills, as well as in their schooling.”

Trophies, medals, and scholarships, sponsored by MCHF, were presented to the top teams and individuals at the state championship. Scholarships awarded to students are to be used for their education endeavors following high school graduation.

“We were thrilled to award 20 scholarships, totaling $30,000, to the top five overall females and males in both the Bullseye and 3D Tournaments, in addition to trophies and medals to top individuals and teams in each division,” said MCHF Executive Director Tricia Burkhardt. “The level of talent and discipline displayed by the student archers gets better every year and we are excited to support an inclusive program that teaches lifelong skills!”

MoNASP is coordinated through MDC, MCHF, Conservation Federation of Missouri, and the National Archery in the Schools Program in partnership with more than 800 participating schools and numerous supporting organizations throughout the state. More than 83,000 student archers are participating in the program and more than 200,000 Missouri students have participated since it started. MoNASP is an affiliate of NASP and is an in-school program for grades 4-12 that teaches the basics of archery, along with the confidence, self-control, patience, and discipline necessary for success both behind the bow and in school and life. It provides an engaging activity that’s inclusive of nearly all children, regardless of age or physical ability. Statistics show school archery programs improve students’ school attendance, increase their self-esteem and physical activity, and help kids get outside.

BULLSEYE COMPETITION TOP INDIVIDUALS FROM EACH DIVISION

• Kendall Webb, Siegrist Elementary School in Platte City – Score 282
• Luke Scheulen, Osage County R-2 in Linn – Score 284
• Makenzie Humphrey, Blair Oaks Middle School in Jefferson City – Score 293
• Oliver Heckman, Fatima Middle School in Westphalia – Score 293
• Caydence Hall, Helias High School in Jefferson City – Score 294
• Wade Conner, Hillsboro High School in Hillsboro – Score 296

BULLSEYE COMPETITION TOP TEAMS

• George Guffey Elementary School in Fenton – Score 3162
• Ridgewood Middle School in Arnold – Score 3307
• Hillsboro High School in Hillsboro – Score 3427

Get all bullseye competition results online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4jD.

3D COMPETITION TOP INDIVIDUALS FROM EACH DIVISION

• Kendall Webb, Siegrist Elementary School in Platte City – Score 269
• Wyatt Dorge, St. Joseph Catholic School in Westphalia – Score 276
• Marit Bredesen, Bernard Campbell Middle School in Lee’s Summit – Score 287
• Wyatt Clancy, North Wood R-IV School in Salem – Score 290
• Jenna Guerin, Sparta High School in Sparta – Score 289
• Wade Conner, Hillsboro High School in Hillsboro – Score 297

3D COMPETITION TOP TEAMS

• Carl Junction Intermediate School in Carl Junction – Score 1506
• Sarcoxie Middle School in Sarcoxie – Score 1683
• Hillsboro High School in Hillsboro – Score 1728

Get all 3D competition results online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4jK.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wants everyone to discover the fun of fishing.  To give people of all disabilities a chance to try angling, MDC will host a Fishing for People with Disabilities program Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m. – noon at Lake 15 on the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area in St. Charles.

This program will be catch-and-release, ADA-accessible, and designed specifically for both children and adults who have disabilities.  The event is open to persons ages 7 and up with disabilities of all types.

“Whether you’re a beginner or expert, come join us for a fun morning of fishing and learn how to bait a hook, cast, take the fish off the hook, and other tips,” said MDC Volunteer Naturalist Marilyn Motchan.   Lake 15 is ADA accessible. 

All fishing equipment and bait will be provided, as well as some adaptive equipment that will enable users to secure fishing poles to wheelchairs.  MDC volunteers will be on hand to help teach and assist. 

No fishing permit is required for participants of this event.  Support staff should accompany participants if needed and may assist them; however, only the participant themselves will be permitted to fish.

Participants are welcome to come before or stay after the fishing event and bring snacks or lunch for a picnic by the lake.

The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area is located at 2360 Highway D, about two miles west of Highway 94. 

The Fishing for People with Disabilities program are offered in cooperation between MDC and the Recreation Council of Greater St Louis.  Advanced registration is required through the Recreation Council by email at SFleming@recreationcouncil.org, or calling 314-726-6044.  Program participants should also provide an email address to receive directions to the lakes and a working cell phone number in case of cancellation due to weather.

Join us as we celebrate Women's History Month with a special event honoring the incredible contributions of women in conservation. This evening will spotlight the pioneering women who have shaped our natural world through dedication, leadership, and innovation.

The event will kick off with an inspiring keynote presentation delivered by Executive Director of the L-A-D Foundation and former MDC leader Jennifer Battson-Warren, who will be offering a unique perspective on the evolving role of women in the conservation field.

Following the keynote, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with dynamic women from various conservation organizations at informational Leaders in Conservation tables throughout our nature center classrooms. These women will share insights into their important work, from habitat restoration to wildlife protection, and offer hands-on activities designed to inspire and educate. As you explore the tables, you'll hear firsthand about the challenges these women face in their fields, from breaking barriers in leadership to navigating the ever-changing landscape of environmental stewardship.

Each table will provide an interactive experience, allowing you to connect with conservationists, ask questions, and learn about the diverse ways women are making a difference. In addition, our Herstory Hallway will feature games, activities, and interactive displays celebrating the achievements of women in conservation. Learn about trailblazing figures in environmental history, take part in fun challenges, and reflect on how you can contribute to the future of conservation. Whether you're an aspiring naturalist, a community advocate, or someone passionate about the environment, this event is a chance to celebrate the power of women leading the charge for a better, more sustainable world.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired! Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the keynote presentation starts at 7:00 p.m. Exploration of our Leaders in Conservation tables and Herstory Hallway begins at 7:30 p.m. and will be available until 9:00 p.m. Registration is required.

Spring Turkey Season is one of the most anticipated hunting seasons in Missouri.  It opens this year with Youth Turkey Season running April 12 – 13, then Spring Turkey Season following Apr 21 - May 11.  The Show-Me-State is especially well-known for its outstanding turkey hunting.  These wary birds may present a challenge but beginning turkey hunters should not be intimidated by the sport. 

In advance of the season, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites new hunters to an Introduction to Turkey Hunting program Tuesday, March 25.  This free class takes place from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in Defiance.  The program is a good opportunity for both adult and youth hunters to enter the sport. 

“Turkeys are very cautious birds and have very good vision, which makes trying to lure in a gobbler challenging yet rewarding hunting,” said MDC Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center Manager Bryant Hertel.  “If you are new to hunting or have not tried turkey hunting, this program is for you.”

The program will introduce new turkey hunters to hunting strategies needed for success in pursuing the wary birds.  The class will be taught by both MDC staff and members of the National Wild Turkey Federation, tapping into a wide range of expertise.

Participants will learn what kinds of habitat tend to hold turkeys, how to positively identify a turkey, basic hunting and shooting safety, hunting regulations, firearm selection, and shotgun patterning.  Students will get an introduction to the most popular turkey calls and effective calling techniques, including practical tips on when and how often to call.  Other gear will be reviewed to help beginning hunters be successful, like clothing, hunting blinds, and decoys.

Introduction to Turkey Hunting is a free program, but advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4j2. 

The August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 3550 Route D, approximately five miles west of Highway 94 in Defiance. 

Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.

Learn the basics of turkey hunting with MDC’s free Introduction to Turkey Hunting program Tuesday, March 25 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the Busch Shooting Range.

Having a pond on your property can enhance its natural appeal and bring opportunities for fishing and wildlife watching. If you’re a landowner and have questions about building a new pond, or managing an existing pond on your property, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) can help.

MDC invites landowners to attend a free Pond Management Workshop on Thursday, April 3 from 5:30 – 8 p.m. at the University of Missouri’s Wurdack Research Center near Cook Station in Crawford County.  The workshop will help landowners make the most of their private lakes or ponds. This workshop will be held on Thursday, April 3, from 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. 

This Pond Management workshop will offer property owners the chance to learn best practices for building and maintaining a healthy pond on their land. Participants will learn directly from MDC experts in fisheries management. The workshop is designed to cover a wide variety of topics including site selection, pond construction, fish stocking, fish habitat and management, controlling aquatic vegetation and pond watersheds, maintenance tips, and dealing with nuisance wildlife.

The Pond Management workshop is free, but space is limited. Advanced registration is required online http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4jL.

The MU Wurdack Research Center is located southeast of Cook Station, at 164 Bales Rd, Cook Station, MO 65449.  Participants should drive through gate and up the hill for 0.7 miles.  The conference room will be on left.

MDC invites landowners to a free Pond Management Workshop Thursday, April 3 from 5:30 – 8 p.m. at the MU’s Wurdack Research Center near Cook Station in Crawford County.

On Wednesday afternoon and evening, dry conditions and high winds sparked several wildfires in the southern part of the state on private land, conservation areas, and National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service lands. Even though most of the fires were contained by Thursday morning, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) urges caution as higher-than-normal fire-danger conditions exist across most of southern Missouri.

Specially trained MDC firefighting teams from the region worked with the U.S. Forest Service and local fire departments to contain and suppress the wildfires. MDC is also mobilizing staff and equipment from other regions around the state to relieve staff that have been actively fighting fire for several days, including ones burning in and around the Caney Mountain Conservation Area in Ozark County and part of the Current River Conservation Area in Reynolds County. 

HELP PREVENT WILDFIRES

MDC reminds people to be careful with any activities that could cause a wildfire and offers the following information:  

OUTDOOR BURNING: Don’t burn during wrong conditions. Dry grass, high temperatures, low humidity, and wind make fire nearly impossible to control. Check with local fire departments regarding burn bans that may be in place. A person who starts a fire for any reason is responsible for any damage it may cause.

DRIVING OFF ROAD: Wildfires can start when dry fuel, such as grass, comes in contact with catalytic converters. Think twice before driving into and across a grassy field. Never park over tall, dry grass or piles of leaves that can touch the underside of a vehicle. When driving vehicles off road, regularly inspect the undercarriage to ensure that fuel and brake lines are intact, and no oil leaks are apparent. Always carry an approved fire extinguisher on vehicles that are used off road. Check for the presence of spark arresters on ATV exhausts.

MAKING A CAMPFIRE: Clear a generous zone around fire rings. Store unused firewood a good distance from a campfire. Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquid to start a fire. Keep campfires small and controllable. Keep fire-extinguishing materials, such as a rake, shovel, and bucket of water, close. Extinguish campfires each night and before leaving camp, even if it’s just for a few moments. Learn more about camping on MDC areas at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities/camping.

CIGARETTE BUTTS: Discarded cigarette butts can cause wildfires. Such was the probable cause of a recent wildfire at the MDC Columbia Bottom Conservation Area near Spanish Lake that burned more than 100 acres.

CALL FOR HELP: Call 911 at the first sign of a fire getting out of control.

REPORT FOREST ARSON: Wildfires are sometimes set by vandals. Help stop arson by calling 800-392-1111 and reporting any potential arson activities. Callers will remain anonymous, and rewards are possible.

RED FLAG WARNINGS: The National Weather Service issues Red Flag Warnings when the danger of wildfires is high, typically from drought conditions or warm weather with very low humidity and high or erratic winds. Learn more at www.weather.gov/.

HELP PREVENT WILDFIRES: Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention.

The groundbreaking of the second project within the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Improve I-70 Program kicked off with an official ceremony today, March 20, in Foristell. MoDOT, joined by state and local elected officials, along with members of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and its contractor team gathered at the closed eastbound I-70 weigh station to break ground on Improve I-70: Warrenton to Wentzville.

“Today marks another historic milestone in MoDOT’s efforts to Improve I-70,” said Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Vice-Chairman W. Dustin Boatwright. “This is a once in a generation opportunity to bring this transformative improvement to communities along I-70, the citizens of Missouri and those just traveling through.”

Improve I-70: Warrenton to Wentzville is one of several projects that will expand and improve I-70 across the state. Missouri’s FY2024 budget approved through the state legislative process and signed by the governor provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to build a third lane in each direction on nearly 200 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville. This project includes the Improve I-70 and additional legislatively designated General Revenue funding. It also includes previously allocated funds in the state’s program for other I-70 and I-64 projects for a total contract cost of $600 million, the largest single contract in MoDOT’s history.

Construction will begin in spring 2025 and completion is anticipated in late 2028. This project was awarded to the Design-Build contractor team the Improve 70 Alliance (Emery Sapp and Sons, Clarkson Construction, HNTB, and Bartlett and West) and includes the following improvements:

• Constructing a third lane in each direction on I-70 from Warrenton to I-64 in Wentzville, including replacing the existing I-70 lanes with new full-depth concrete pavement.
• Interchange improvements at I-70 and the I-64/U.S. Route 61 interchange.
• Interchange and outer road improvements in Warrenton, Wright City, Foristell, and at Route Z.
• Realignment at the railroad bridge on I-70 between Wentzville Parkway and Route Z.
• Adding a third lane of travel to eastbound and westbound I-64 between I-70 and Route K.
• The team has also committed to keeping two lanes of travel open on I-70 in both directions during peak travel times.

Those interested in receiving construction details and other updates for this project can sign up for project e-mails at www.modot.org/improvei70/warrentonwentzville.

Motorists traveling on I-70 across the state should note that this project will be in construction concurrently with Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City, which will add a third lane to I-70 between Columbia and Kingdom City. Cross-state I-70 travelers should plan ahead, allow for extra time, and be vigilant in work zones. Buckle Up. Phone Down.

For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org. To receive the latest statewide news and text alerts, signup for e-updates.

East Central College’s Chi Delta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society earned multiple awards at the Heartland Region PTK Annual Convention.

The conference was held March 1-2 in Omaha, Neb., and brought together PTK chapters from two-year colleges in Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska to celebrate academic achievement, leadership, and service.

ECC was represented by seven students and two advisors who made the more than seven-hour trip to Omaha. Their dedication paid off as the chapter and its members were recognized in every category they entered, competing against approximately 65 chapters in the region.

These awards reflect the outstanding efforts of ECC students and their commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service. The students dedicated significant time and effort to their nominations, submitting detailed applications highlighting their work throughout the 2024 calendar year.

Chapter Awards:

• Distinguished Chapter for the Heartland Region – Third Place
• Honors in Action (Research and Presentation Projects) – Third Place
• College Project – Honorable Mention (Top 10 in the region)
• Five Star Chapter Recognition – Five Star Level (the highest level of participation in PTK)

Individual Awards:

• Kylie Napier – Fifth Place, Distinguished Chapter Officer
• Ethan Sandstrom – Honorable Mention, Distinguished Chapter Officer (Top 10 in the region)
• Kathryn Boenher – Second Place, Distinguished Chapter Member

Distinguished Chapter Officer Team – Third Place in the Region:

• Elijah Long – President
• Taylor Rowald – Executive Vice President
• Kylie Napier – Public Relations Vice President
• Ethan Sandstrom – Recording and Finance Vice President

In addition to these achievements, the chapter is preparing for PTK’s annual international convention, which will be held April 3-5 in Kansas City. There, ECC’s Chi Delta Chapter will compete against nearly 1,300 PTK chapters nationwide for additional honors.

“We are optimistic about our chances of earning recognition at the international level, based on our performance at the regional convention,” said Kevin Dixon, PTK advisor. “Our students continue to raise the bar for excellence.”

ECC’s chapter is also proud to support student Ethan Sandstrom, who is running for a vice president position for Division III, representing 13 states in the upper Midwest. The chapter is actively planning campaign efforts for the convention and looks forward to the opportunities this leadership role could provide.

Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society for two-year colleges, recognizing academic achievement and providing students with opportunities for growth through leadership, scholarship, and service.

To be invited to join PTK, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.4 and be enrolled as a full-time student for one semester. After induction, members are required to uphold an overall GPA of 3.2 to remain in the honor society. Membership is open to students of all majors, including those pursuing degrees or certificates.

For more information about ECC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, email Kevin Dixon at kevin.dixon@eastcentral.edu.

Dry conditions and high winds sparked hundreds of wildfires around Missouri last week, primarily on March 13 and 14 before severe thunderstorms and tornados swept into the state and quenched many of the blazes. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), partnering fire departments and MDC staff reported 224 wildfires covering more than 15,500 acres between March 10-16. While more than 20 homes and numerous vehicles and outbuildings were lost to the flames, there were no reported injuries or deaths.

More than 90 specially trained MDC staff responded to 83 of the wildfires around the state, covering nearly 9,000 acres.

“We are so very thankful for everyone’s efforts in fighting these fires,” said MDC Fire Program Coordinator Ben Webster. “We greatly appreciate the expertise, hard work, and long hours from our staff, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and especially the many rural fire departments who are such vital partners in these efforts.”

According to MDC, the Camdenton area in central Missouri had 42 fires with a total of 6,086 acres burned, including 761 acres on Granny’s Acres Conservation Area in Benton County. More than 30 MDC staff responded.

Several dozen MDC staff assisted with a 150-acre fire on private land near Milan in northeast Missouri. They also fought a 78-acre wildfire on Big Creek Conservation Area in Adair County and a one-acre fire on nearby Sugar Creek Conservation Area.

MDC staff fought 19 fires in the Ozark region of the state covering nearly 1,500 acres, including nearly 300 acres of conservation lands. MDC reported that extreme weather conditions had one of its teams fighting a fire one minute and then taking shelter in a Dent County homeowner’s basement for a tornado warning the next.

MDC staff in the St. Louis region assisted with six separate fires covering nearly 300 acres, including in Davisville, on Highway 47 near Potosi, and on 178 acres at River 'Round Conservation Area in Franklin County, and on nearly 80 acres on the Glassberg Family Conservation Area in Jefferson County.

MDC staff in southwest counties responded to nine wildfires that consumed 583 acres, including 75 acres on Comstock Prairie Conservation Area in Barton County with the rest on private land. Staff also assisted the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) on a 173-acre fire that burned part of its Seligman Hollow area and private land.

More than two dozen MDC staff in southeast Missouri responded to five fires that consumed more than 300 acres, including a 115-acre blaze on USFS and private land south of Flatwoods Conservation Area in Wayne County and a fire on 110 acres of private lands northeast of Des Arc in Iron County. Staff contained a 26-acre fire on Magnolia Hollow Conservation Area in Genevieve County. Staff also assisted local fire departments in containing a 48-acre fire on private land in Ste Genevieve County and a 12-acre fire on private land in Reynolds County north of Current River Conservation Area.

While these fires have been contained and extinguished, the National Weather Service still has Red Flag Warnings for parts of Missouri. A red flag warning is issued to inform the public, firefighters, and land management agencies that conditions are ideal for wildfire ignition and rapid spread. These include drought conditions or warm weather with very low humidity and high or erratic winds. Learn more at www.weather.gov/.

Some wildfires are set by vandals. Help stop arson by calling Operation Forest Arson at 800-392-1111. Callers will remain anonymous and rewards are possible.

Learn how to help prevent wildfires at mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention.

DID YOU KNOW… MDC supports about 700 rural fire departments around the state by providing tens-of-thousands of dollars in annual grant monies that help these small-town, mostly volunteer fire departments buy personal protective gear and firefighting equipment. Grant funds are used on everything from radios and other communication equipment to chainsaws, hoses, and hand tools. Funding for the program is provided by MDC and the U.S. Forest Service Volunteer Fire Assistance Program. For more information on how MDC helps fire departments around the state, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/fire-department-assistance-programs.

Part of the enjoyment of fishing is being able to provide a meal for the dinner table.

People who want to learn more about how to turn the fish they’ve caught at area lakes and streams into tasty table fare should register for the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) virtual program “Pond to Plate: Fish Cooking: Equipment Needed.” This free online event will be from noon-12:30 p.m. on March 25. It is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center in Joplin. At this event, MDC Office Supervisor Tim Smith will talk about the equipment needed for frying, grilling, and other fish preparation methods. People can register for this program at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/205821

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate. Use the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. This program will include a chat-based question-and-answer period where participants can interact with the presenters.

MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center is located at 201 W. Riviera Drive. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at the Shoal Creek Center and other MDC facilities by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the Shoal Creek Center can call 417-629-3434.

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.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is announcing its Discover Nature Girls Camp for 2025, which is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, June 16 - 17, at the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area and Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center.  The camp is open to girls aged 11-15 years.  This is a free, two-day camp aimed at introducing girls to a range of outdoors skills in a supportive learning environment. 

The Discover Nature Girls Camp will run from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day.  Day one will start at the MDC St. Louis Regional Office on the Busch Conservation Area, 2360 Highway D in St. Charles.  The girls will experience canoeing, fishing, fire starting, and other outdoor activities. 

On day two, participants will meet at the nearby Busch Shooting Range, 3550 Hwy D in Defiance.  They will learn and practice all the skills needed to become Missouri Hunter Education Certified.   They’ll also get hands-on experience shooting .22 rifles, shotguns, and archery, along with learning the skill of atlatl throwing.

“The goal of this camp is to encourage participants to gain the confidence to explore Missouri’s diverse outdoors on their own,” said MDC Conservation Educator Becky Robertson.  “Discover Nature Girls Camp provides them with a comfortable learning atmosphere where they can actively participate in ‘hands-on’ outdoor skills led by conservation agents and MDC staff.”

Discover Nature Girls Camp is free with all equipment provided.  The camp is limited to 60 girls between the ages of 11 to 15 years old. The first 60 applications received will be selected to attend.  

To apply, participants should follow these steps:

• Pre-register online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4jc
• Supply a current email and address when registering
• Watch for an email confirmation and an information packet in the mail
• Fill out the packet as soon as possible and return. Students must complete the knowledge portion explained in packet.
• Return the packet prior to attending the Discover Nature Girls Camp by May 12

For additional information, contact Becky Robertson at Becky.Robertson@mdc.mo.gov,  or 636-441-4554, ext. 4126.

Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoF

* WINDS...Southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.

* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 22 percent.

* IMPACTS...These conditions are conducive for the rapid spread
  and growth of uncontrolled wildfires.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels can contribute
to extreme fire behavior.

Weaving white oak baskets is a craft dating to pioneer times that required nimble fingers and a knowledge of the trees around your log cabin.

People wanting to learn more about this traditional craft and how it fit into forest management should register for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Trees: Ozark White Oak Baskets” March 27. This online program will be from 1-2 p.m. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/207122

At the March 27 program, MDC Southeast Region Education Supervisor AJ Hendershott will discuss the type of white oak trees that were harvested to make these baskets. Program participants will also learn the process through which white oak strips were transformed into pliable pieces that could be woven together to form a basket.

It should be noted this program is not a start-to-finish “how-to-weave-a-basket” class. Rather, it will cover the vital functions these baskets had in the day-to-day lives of the families who settled the Ozarks. The program will also cover the connection the craft of white oak basket-making had with a pioneer version of forestry management in early Missouri.

People wanting to get more information about MDC programs in south-central Missouri can sign up for text alerts and email bulletins from MDC’s Twin Pines Conservation Education Center. The Twin Pines Center is located at 20086 Highway 60 in Shannon County just east of Winona. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at this facility by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from Twin Pines can call 573-325-1381.

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

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is again partnering with the Missouri Invasive Plant Council (MoIP), Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, and Forrest Keeling Nursery to host a Callery Pear Tree Buyback event in communities around the state on April 22 from 3 – 6 p.m.

Also known as Bradford pear trees, Callery pear trees’ white flowers in spring give a visual attractiveness to these non-native, invasive trees. However the trees pose problems for landowners and wildlife. Their top-heavy canopy and brittle branch structure leads to a tree that often breaks in storms. Their flowers may be appealing to the eye, but they have a foul smell and many varieties of this tree have thorns. The tree’s aggressive growth also causes problems for wildlife, native plant species, and property owners. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/invasive-plants/callery-pear-control.

“As we prepare for spring, many Callery pear trees—also known as Bradford pears—will soon begin to bloom,” said MoIP Chairperson Carol Davit. “The profuse white blossoms of this highly invasive tree make their alarming spread especially apparent in spring along roadsides, in fields, parks, and on private property.”

Register for the Callery Pear Buyback event from March 17 through April 17 at moinvasives.org/2025/01/31/2025-callery-pear-buyback/. The website also has information on how to identify Callery pear trees, a list of native tree species offered, and pick-up locations with specific addresses.

Missourians who register for the buyback can get their replacement native trees on April 22 from 3 – 6 p.m. in the following Missouri communities with specific address information provided at registration: Cape Girardeau, Columbia, Doniphan, Hannibal, Jefferson City, Joplin, Kirksville, Lebanon, Moberly, Park Hills, Rolla, Sikeston, Springfield, St. Joseph, St. Louis, Warrensburg, and West Plains.

Partnership members are grateful to the Richard King Mellon Foundation and the Missouri Community Forestry Council for their financial support of the 2025 Callery Pear Buyback event, as well as to Forrest Keeling Nursery and Forest ReLeaf of Missouri for tree donations. Financial and administrative support also come from the Missouri Prairie Foundation and MDC.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is soliciting input from the public on Missouri’s transportation priorities. The department has launched a survey to gather information as it updates both the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) and the State Freight and Rail Plan (SFRP). Both the LRTP and SFRP are federally required plans that serve as roadmaps for the state’s transportation network – addressing the evolving needs of the system and setting priorities.

“Input from our customers and stakeholders is critical when it comes to our long range and freight and rail planning process,” said MoDOT Director Ed Hassinger. “We want to hear directly from those who use the transportation system and how it’s working for communities across the state. These plans allow us to set goals and determine the long-term priorities that are right for Missourians.”        

The current LRTP was approved in June 2018 and will be updated in tandem with the current SFRP, which was approved in May 2022. The new LRTP will build upon the goals outlined in the current plan – including making investments in infrastructure that keep travelers safe and spur economic growth, giving Missourians more transportation choices and reducing congestion on the current system – while determining the goals and direction of the next 25 years.

The SFRP serves as a comprehensive assessment of Missouri’s freight and passenger rail systems and determines short-term and long-terms goals for improving the state’s freight and rail infrastructure. Updates to the SFRP will include an analysis of the economic impact of Missouri’s public ports and passenger rail systems, an analysis of the truck parking system and the identification of critical supply chains that move the state’s economy.

The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and allows Missourians to help inform the priorities and goals of both plans. The survey can be accessed at: Home | MoDOT Long-Range Transportation Plan and State Freight & Rail Plan on a computer, smartphone or tablet. Those needing access to a computer and/or internet connection are encouraged to visit their local public library. The survey will be open through Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Drafts of the LRTP and SFRP will be available for public comment in early 2026. The final plans will be presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for review and consideration later in 2026.

Additional questions about the survey and planning process for both plans can be addressed by calling 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636), or by mail at Transportation Planning, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, MO 65102.