On Saturday December 28, 2024, at 1:37 am our officers received a call of someone shooting another person in the 1600 Block of East 5^th Street.

At this point of the investigation it appears 5 young males, ages between 18 and 22 years of age were in a vehicle driving to an unknown destination after a night of drinking, when 2 of the males began to get into an argument.  The driver pulled the vehicle over in the 1600 Block of East 5^th Street, so the two males could fight and settle the argument. One of the males involved in the argument got out of the rear passenger seat and began yelling at the other male involved in the argument to get out of the vehicle and fight him.  The male in the front seat of the vehicle pulled out a handgun from glovebox and fired several rounds into the pavement near the other male. 

The male shooting the gun fled the scene and was later located on East 5^th Street near Southbend.  The male did not have the gun in possession, but was later located behind a nearby business.

The male that was shoot at had minor injuries to his lower legs.  It is unknown at this time if the injuries are from shrapnel from the bullet or debris from the pavement that stuck him. 

The male shooting the gun is at 20-year-old from the Robertsville area, charges will be sought for Assault 2^nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and possible other charges. 

This is active an ongoing investigation.

Reloading ammunition can be an enjoyable hobby and it’s a way for hunters and sport shooters to customize ammunition and get good shells.

People can learn more about this popular pastime at two Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) programs being held Jan. 11 at MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center. Both programs are free and will have in-person and virtual options for attending.

People can learn how to reload bullets at the Jan. 11 MDC program “Learning to Shoot: Metallic Reloading.” This program will be from 9-11 a.m. At this program, MDC Outdoor Education Center Specialist Ali Cannefax will cover the basics of reloading rifle and pistol ammunition. People wishing to attend this program virtually can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/204129

Those wishing to attend this program in-person can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/204128

Later that same day, from 10-11 a.m., people wishing to learn about reloading shotgun shells can register for the MDC program “Learning to Shoot: Shotshell Reloading.” At this program, Cannefax will cover the basics of shotgun shell ammunition. Shell preparation, shot selection, and primer selection are among the topics that will be covered. (In regards to the time of this program, the metallic reloading program overlaps into the shotgun shell reloading program.)

People wishing to attend the shotgun shell reloading program virtually can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/204131

Those who want to attend this program in-person can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/204130

Dalton Range staff will provide all reloading materials for both the bullet and shotgun shell programs on Jan. 11. People attending the class in-person are reminded that there should be no live ammunition, loaded firearms, or uncased firearms inside the classroom.

MDC’s Andy Dalton Range is located near Ash Grove at 4897 N. Greene County Farm Road 61. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at the facility by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about upcoming events or how to sign up for text alerts from the Dalton Range can call 417-742-4361.

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.

For generations, families have relaxed to stories built around nature-themed characters.

On Jan. 3, families are invited to cozy up to their computer for Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Tales of the New Year.” This online program will be from 4:30-5:15 p.m. and is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center. This program is designed for all ages. People can register for this program at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/205178

At the Jan. 3 program, MDC Naturalist Jordi Raos will share some traditional tales involving animals and plants. This program will not be recorded.

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate using the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them.

People can stay informed about upcoming programs at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature 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 nature center can call 417-888-4237.

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.

A live Christmas tree brings us many gifts for the season.  From the spicy-sweet aroma, the elegance of their stature, to the charming decorations that adorn them.  But after the holidays, you can carry on the benefits of live Christmas trees in many conservation-friendly ways by regifting them back to nature, according to Missouri Department of Conservation Department (MDC) foresters.  

Since they come from nature in the first place, one of the advantages live Christmas trees is that they can be recycled to benefit the environment, wildlife, and even people. There are plenty of after-holiday uses to consider. 

“Most live trees can be chipped and turned into mulch, which you can use to return organic matter to the soil,” said MDC Community Forester Mark Grueber.  “As the mulch breaks down, it helps keep soil moist and cool during the summer and warmer during the winter.”

Many municipalities will offer mulching services where residents can drop off their trees and return later to collect the mulch.  Or, if homeowners have no use for it, the mulch might find a place in public works projects to benefit the community.

Along the same lines, gardeners can cut boughs and branches from their trees and place over perennial beds to help protect from frost and snow.  Pine needles are very moisture and mold-resistant, thanks to their waxy qualities.

Used live Christmas trees can also give a holiday gift to wildlife, according to Grueber.  “They are great for habitat – place them in a quiet corner of your yard to provide cover for wildlife or stand them up and place bird feeders on them for winter feeding,” he recommended.  Those with property might also use the used trees to build brush piles for wildlife.

And naturally, there are craft ideas that make use of post-holiday trees.  Grueber said there are plenty of ideas to be discovered online.  The branches can find a use as part of a potpourri mix or be woven into an after-holiday wreath.  Discs cut from the trunk, dried in the oven, and painted, will create a multitude of things, like drink coasters, refrigerator magnets, wall art, even ornaments for next year’s tree.

Property owners can sink used trees into their ponds to help create homes for fish.  The trees benefit some of the most popular species that anglers like to pursue, including largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and crappie.

Since these fish typically spawn in shallow water, MDC recommends tying the tree to a cement block and submerging it at a depth of four-to-seven feet.  This gives emerging fish easy access to the cover.  No need to cut it up, the entire tree is best for creating fish structure.  Of course, you do need to remove all traces of decorations, tinsel, or garlands.  Since the underwater habitat will concentrate fish, place the tree so you can easily cast nearby, and you might see a boost in your catch rate.

Something absolutely not to do with a Christmas tree, though, is burn it in the fireplace.   Evergreen needles contain nitrogen and substances called terpenes, which are highly toxic when burned, making the smoke unsafe to breath.  Burning coniferous trees can also build up flammable, corrosive creosotes on the inside of a chimney.  Finally, evergreen needles might cause sparks, and a fire danger in your home.

One of the beauties of live Christmas trees is their potential to be recycled in so many beneficial ways.  Regifting them to nature truly embodies the spirit of the season and can continue to provide natural benefits long after the holidays are over.

Scientists anticipate 2024 will be the warmest year on record globally, surpassing a record set last year. In St. Louis, 2024 is unlikely to set a record but the temperatures continue to trend warmer. 

Following Earth’s second-warmest November on record, scientists predict 2024 will end as the hottest year ever measured, surpassing the record set in 2023, according to a report Monday by European climate service Copernicus. 

In St. Louis, 2012 remains the hottest year on record, with 2023 in second place. While 2024 is unlikely to beat the 2012 record, Garden Scientist Adam Smith said hotter days will lie ahead for the St. Louis area. 

“We will experience more days hotter than 105°F, and more overall hot days,” Smith said. 

Smith uses mathematical models to create maps that predict long-term impacts of climate change. For St. Louis, his projections show that if we continue the current greenhouse gas emissions path, sometime in the next century we will have a climate like eastern Texas. That will mean more very hot days, more humidity and infrequent snow.  

“We often talk about ‘global warming,’ but climate encompasses all aspects of the system—rain, snow, drought, fog, wind, sun,” Smith explained. 

In 2024, the St. Louis area experienced a drought for most of the summer, followed by catastrophic storms. This is a pattern likely to continue, which could cause problems for plants and people. 

“In the Midwest, we’re actually getting more rainfall, but it comes in bigger storms with longer periods of dry spells between them,” Smith said. “This makes it hard for plants and people to manage—when rain hits really dry soil, it tends to run off rather than soak in, so ironically, there’s less water for plants, and more flooding for people.” 

Smith said it can be tempting to write off 2024’s high temperatures and heavy storms as an anomaly caused by El Niño. 

“But the fact that El Niño is happening more frequently because of climate change means that the basis for the heat this year is still climate change,” he explained. 

The Missouri Botanical Garden continues to respond to climate change through sustainability efforts on its grounds, by adapting its living collection to include species that will be better able to thrive in climate change, through community outreach, and research and conservation projects in the U.S. around the world. Learn more at mobot.org. 

As Governor Mike Parson concludes his tenure as Missouri’s top economic developer, the Department of Economic Development (DED) celebrates the impact of the Parson administration on the state’s economy.

“Due to our unwavering commitment to supporting Missouri workers and business growth, we can confidently say that Missouri’s economy is stronger than ever,” said Governor Mike Parson. “From day one, our administration prioritized infrastructure and workforce development because we knew they would bring business investments and job creation. Today, we continue to see positive results of our hard work that are improving lives across every region of our state. We are humbled by and beyond proud of the legacy we have achieved through partnership.”

Since Governor Parson took office in June 2018, the state has experienced far-reaching economic growth that has positively impacted businesses, communities, workforce, and tourism.

“For more than six years, Governor Parson has helped Missourians prosper by serving as our state’s number one economic developer,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “The positive impact of the Parson administration’s efforts to strengthen our economy will benefit generations of Missourians for years to come. We’re grateful for Governor Parson’s dedication and look forward to building upon his legacy of economic growth.”

Business Growth

Under Governor Parson’s leadership, from June 1, 2018, to present, DED supported more than 740 business projects that totaled more than $17 billion in investment and more than 60,000 jobs created. DED’s promotion of business growth includes the use of programs, such as the Missouri Works Program, that assist companies in expanding, retaining workers, and creating new jobs. Governor Parson’s emphasis on improving critical infrastructure and strengthening Missouri’s workforce greatly contributed to the number of new projects and overall project size during the last several fiscal years.

Significant business projects completed during the Parson administration include the expansion of General Motor’s manufacturing plant in Wentzville, American Foods Group’s new facility in Warren County, Google’s new data center in Kansas City, EquipmentShare’s multiple expansions in central Missouri, Carlisle Construction Materials’ new facility in Sikeston, Casey’s General Stores’ new distribution center in Joplin, and Western Smokehouse Partners’ new facility in Mexico, among others.

Today, Missouri is ranked seventh nationally and first in the Midwest for job growth in the last year. Since June 2018, Missouri has added nearly 190,000 jobs to its economy. The state’s GDP growth is also outpacing national growth.

Community Development

During the Parson administration, DED supported a variety of projects to strengthen communities and increase their capacity for economic growth. Since June 1, 2018, DED’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program awarded funds to 320 projects across the state that totaled $230.6 million and have impacted more than 1 million Missourians.

Through ten grant programs funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), DED awarded more than $530 million to more than 700 communities, nonprofits, and businesses for projects supporting broadband access, workforce training, community revitalization, local tourism, industrial sites, and more.

DED’s Office of Broadband Development (OBD) greatly expanded efforts to connect all Missourians to quality internet access as it secured $1.7 billion in funding through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program – the third largest allocation in the nation. As OBD begins BEAD implementation, more than 75,000 new and improved connections have already been made through other programs that have awarded more than $310 million.

Workforce Training

Missouri One Start, the state’s premier workforce recruitment and training division, was formed by an executive order signed by Governor Parson in 2019. Since then, Missouri One Start has trained more than 173,000 employees as it supported more than 1,300 projects that represent a total of more than $10.7 billion in capital investment.

Tourism Impact

Missouri’s vibrant tourism industry also thrived under Governor Parson’s leadership. Since June 1, 2018, the state saw more than $103.7 billion in tourism-related spending with an average of more than 288,000 people working in tourism/hospitality each year.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol wishes everyone a merry and safe Christmas. One way for it to be merry is for everyone to arrive at their holiday celebrations safely. Wear your seat belt, obey all traffic laws, pay attention, and please, don’t drive impaired. Remember: Missouri is now a hands-free state.

Over the 2023 Christmas holiday, there were 1,034 traffic crashes statewide. In those crashes, three people were killed and another 346 were injured. Last year, the 78-hour counting period began at 6 p.m. Friday, December 22, 2023, and ended at 11:59 p.m. Monday, December 25, 2023. The 2024 counting period begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, December 25, 2024.

Travelers are reminded that holiday drivers will affect traffic patterns. If you’re planning a trip during the holiday, please keep this in mind. Drivers are encouraged to make sure they are well rested, no matter how short their driving distance. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Downloading the MoDOT Traveler Information app to your smart phone allows you to check road conditions before you travel. Be proactive: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and allow enough time to reach your destination safely. Winterize your vehicle before bad weather arrives, but realize that sometimes, it’s safest to stay home.

If faced with a traffic emergency, motorists can contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. This emergency number will ring into the nearest Highway Patrol headquarters. Motorists should use this number if they are in a traffic crash, witness a crash or crime, or pass a stranded motorist in need of assistance, etc.

Troopers encourage motorists to protect themselves from all types of hazardous drivers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Please obey all traffic laws, and if alcohol is part of your holiday, designate a sober driver. Every driver can help make our roadways safer this holiday season.

Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on X @MSHPTrooperGHQ

The Missouri Department of Transportation will close Route M between Route 100 and Route AT for a culvert pipe replacement on Thursday, December 26.

Crews will close Route M near Penn Street from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Please seek alternate routes during the closure. Electronic message boards are in place to inform drivers about the scheduled work zone.

For up-to-date traffic and travel info, motorists can check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites waterfowl hunters to a series of public workshops around the state to gather hunter input about duck season dates and zone boundary locations for the 2026-2030 seasons.

Participants will have the opportunity to review long-term waterfowl data about weather, migration, habitat use, harvest, and hunter opinions, and discuss their season date and zone preferences with other hunters and MDC staff. MDC will use hunter input gathered through the workshops combined with hunter opinion surveys to establish Missouri’s 2026-2030 duck season dates and zones.

The 2025 workshops will be held from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Registration is not required. Call the related phone number for more information.

• JAN. 13 IN COLUMBIA: Riechmann Indoor Pavilion at Stephen’s Lake Park, 2300 E. Walnut St., 573-815-7900;
• JAN. 16 IN HARRISONVILLE: Cass County Sherriff’s Office, 2501 W. Mechanic, 660-885-6981 or 816-622-0900;
• JAN. 21 IN ST. JOSEPH: MDC Northwest Regional Office, 701 James McCarthy Drive, 816-271-3100;
• JAN. 22 IN CHILLICOTHE: Comfort Inn and Suites, 250 E. Business 36, 816-271-3100;
• JAN. 23 IN CARROLLTON: Carrollton Public Library, 1 North Folger Street, 816-622-0900;
• JAN. 28 IN ST. CHARLES: Wapelhorst Park Gould Upper Level, 1875 Muegge Road, 636-441-4554;
• JAN. 29 IN ELSBERRY: American Legion, 111 Legion Drive, 636-441-4554;
• JAN. 30 IN KIRKSVILLE: MDC Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore St., 660-785-2420;
• FEB. 4 IN PORTAGEVILLE: Fisher Delta Research Center, 147 State Hwy T, 573-290-5730.
• FEB. 5 IN DEXTER: National Guard Armory, 1702 Missouri Hwy 114, 573-290-5730;
• FEB. 6 IN JACKSON: Jackson Civic Center on 381 E. Deerwood Dr., 573-290-5730;
• FEB. 13 IN SPRINGFIELD: MDC Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 4600 S. Chrisman, 417-895-6880;
• FEB. 14 IN JOPLIN: MDC Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center, 201 W. Riviera Drive, 417-895-6880;

For more information, visit the MDC website at https://huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/waterfowl/waterfowl-reports-prospects/duck-zones-and-season-dates

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,200 jobs in November 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased by one-tenth of a percentage point. Private industry employment decreased by 1,500 jobs and government employment increased by 2,700 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 81,800 jobs from November 2023 to November 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by four-tenths of a percentage point, from 3.3 percent in November 2023 to 3.7 percent in November 2024.        

EMPLOYMENT    

Missouri's nonfarm payroll employment was 3,077,000 in November 2024, up by 1,200 from the revised October 2024 figure. The October 2024 total was revised upward by 4,900 jobs from the preliminary estimate.

Goods-producing industries decreased by 800 jobs over the month, with mining, logging, and construction gaining 200 jobs and manufacturing declining by 1,000 jobs. Private service-providing industries declined by 700 jobs between October 2024 and November 2024. Employment in private service-providing industries decreased in leisure and hospitality (-2,900 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (-2,400 jobs); and information (-200 jobs). Employment increased in private education and health services (2,700 jobs), other services (900 jobs), financial activities (800 jobs), and professional and business services (400 jobs).  Total government employment increased by 2,700 jobs over the month, with increases in local (2,700 jobs) and state government (200 jobs) and decreases in federal government (-200 jobs).

Over the year, total payroll employment increased by 81,800 jobs from November 2023 to November 2024. Employment gains were in private education and health services (25,100 jobs); leisure and hospitality (8,900 jobs); mining, logging, and construction (7,400 jobs); financial activities (7,300 jobs); professional and business services (5,400 jobs); manufacturing (4,500 jobs); other services (3,200 jobs); and trade, transportation, and utilities (1,300 jobs). Employment decreased in information (-200 jobs). Government employment increased by 18,900 jobs over the year, with increases in local (14,100 jobs), state (4,100 jobs), and federal government (700 jobs).         

UNEMPLOYMENT   

Missouri's smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased by one-tenth of a percentage point in November 2024, declining to 3.7 percent from the revised October 2024 rate of 3.8 percent. The November 2024 rate was four-tenths of a percentage point higher than the November 2023 rate. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 118,351 in November 2024, down by 1,670 from October's 120,021.

The state's not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate decreased in November 2024, declining by one-tenth of a percentage point to 3.3 percent from the October 2024 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 3.4 percent. A year ago, the not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 2.8 percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for November 2024 was 4 percent.

Missouri's labor force participation rate was 63.9 percent in November 2024, 1.4 percentage points higher than the national rate of 62.5 percent. Missouri's employment-population ratio was 61.5 percent in November 2024, 1.7 percentage points higher than the national rate of 59.8 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate was 3.7 percent in November 2024, half of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.2 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for more than nine years.

Are you making a New Years’ resolution for 2025 to get more exercise, be healthier, or spend more time in nature?  The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites walkers and hikers to lace up their virtual boots and learn more about how to get started hiking with MDC.

During the month of January, MDC staff from the Howard Wood Urban Outreach Office in St. Louis City will lead a series of “Hiking 101” virtual programs.  Each program will take place from 12 - 1 p.m. on successive Fridays during the month.  They will introduce participants to essential hiking skills and gear, safety tips, and insights into beginner-friendly trails in the St. Louis region.

“Each of these programs will highlight a different aspect of getting out and hitting the trail. They are tailored to people who are looking to get started but will offer tips and tricks for anyone who is interested in hiking,” said MDC Conservation Educator Mary Fuller.

All programs are free and open to all ages, however online registration is required to participate. Each program and registration link is listed below:

Hiking 101: Getting Started

Jan. 3, 2025

This program will cover the basics of hiking, including safety, gear, resources and where to go.  http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4rG

Hiking 101: Cold Weather Hiking

Jan. 10, 2025

Winter hiking can be intimating, but this session will cover ways to stay warm, stay safe, and highlight a few St. Louis-area trails that are especially interesting in the winter.  http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4rN

Hiking 101: There's an App for That

Jan. 17, 2025

This program will highlight some great apps and websites that can be used in planning, tracking, and contributing to citizen science while hiking or spending time outdoors.  http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4rx

Hiking 101: Hiking with Kids

Jan. 31, 2025

This session will cover the basics of hiking with kids of all ages – from babies and toddlers to tweens and teens.  http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4rf

“Every session also will include a chat-based question-and-answer period where participants can interact with the presenter and other participants,” Fuller said. 

Participants can register for any – or all – of the programs, however each participant must register in advance separately and provide a valid e-mail address to receive an online meeting link.   Log in instructions will be provided by email beforehand.  These virtual programs will be held via Webex.

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.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds St. Louis area duck and goose hunters that the fall/winter migration is now in full swing, and all waterfowl seasons are currently open. As colder weather continues to roll in, new birds are arriving in the St. Louis area. The St. Louis region sits in the Mississippi Flyway, which accounts for 40 - 50% of the country’s annual duck harvest and 30 - 40% of the country’s goose harvest.

“If you are in the St. Louis region and are a duck hunter, or even wanting to try waterfowl hunting for the first time, you are in one of the best areas to get out and experience the sport,” said St. Charles County Conservation Agent, Zack Durbin.

Durbin said the St. Louis region provides many opportunities for waterfowlers to get out and hunt. MDC currently has two intensively managed waterfowl hunting areas in the St. Louis region. Those conservation areas are Marais Temps Claire in St. Charles County and B.K. Leach in Lincoln County. Waterfowl population and harvest information about these two conservation areas can be found by calling the waterfowl hotline at 573-898-5905.  

“There are some additional conservation areas and portions of both the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers that may provide waterfowl hunting opportunities in the region, such as Prairie Slough, Cuivre Island, Upper Mississippi conservation areas, and the unrestricted portion of the Mississippi River,” said Agent Durbin.

Duck hunting in Missouri is split into three separate zones with different start and end dates for each zone. The St. Louis region has areas in both the north and middle zones. The last day of season for the north zone is Dec. 31 and the last day of season for the middle zone is Jan. 5.

“Although these end dates are approaching, waterfowlers should be reminded that there is still opportunity to harvest geese once the duck season closes,” Durbin said.

Goose season started on Nov. 11 and runs through Feb. 6 and the light goose conservation order begins Feb. 7 and runs through April 30. During regular goose season hunters may harvest Canada, brant, greater white-fronted geese, and light geese (snow, blue, and Ross’s). The daily/possession limits for each species are as follows.

Species                                                Daily                                          Possession

Canada/Brant                                     3 combined total                        9 combined total

Greater white-fronted                        2                                                6

Light Geese                                        20                                              No possession limit

During the light goose conservation order species that may be harvested are snow, blue, and Ross’s geese. Also, during the conservation order there is no daily or possession limit for light geese.

“These two seasons provide great opportunity for hunters to continue to chase waterfowl species after the duck seasons have closed,” Agent Durbin added.

Additional important information hunters should remember about these two seasons is summarized below:

Regular Goose Season: Nov. 11 – Feb. 6

• Permits required: Small Game hunting permit, Migratory Bird Hunting permit, Federal Waterfowl Stamp.
• Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
• Possession and use of lead shot is prohibited.
• Shotguns must be 10 gauge or smaller and cannot be capable of holding more than three shells.
• Recorded or electronically amplified bird calls are prohibited.
• The head or one fully feathered wing must remain attached to all waterfowl while being transported from the field to one’s home.
• Report banded birds. Bands recovered and reported by hunters provide important information about survival, migration, and harvest rates for a variety of migratory game birds.

Light Goose Conservation Order: Feb. 7 - April 30

• Permits required: Conservation Order Permit.
• Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
• Shotguns must be 10 gauge or smaller and you may use shotguns that are capable of holding more than three shells.
• Electronic calls and electronically activated calls are permitted.

“St. Louis area hunters are lucky to be in one of the county’s best hot spots to hunt ducks and geese.  We hope hunters take advantage of these great opportunities, and above all, stay safe out there,” said Agent Durbin.

Three East Central College Rolla graduates from the LPN to RN Bridge program were honored for their exceptional performance in clinical settings and academics.

Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, and Tabitha Martin received recognition on Dec. 10 during the program’s pinning ceremony, which celebrates licensed practical nurses who continued their education to become registered nurses.

This year’s guest speaker was Leslie Crabtree, Clinical Nurse Educator at Mercy Hospital Washington and a Class of 2022 ECC LPN-to-RN graduate.

The ECC Rolla LPN to RN Bridge Class of 2024 includes Priscilla Brandhorst, Kimberly Bridgeman, Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, Caitlin Hughes, Faith Kelley, Tabitha Martin, Samantha Pointer, and Carley Tritch.

Awards of Excellence

As part of the ceremony, graduates were recognized for their outstanding achievements in clinical and academic settings.

• Savannah Gregory received the ECC Outstanding Nursing Student Award, showcasing her commitment, adaptability, and integrity. Savannah has been described as highly organized and determined, excelling in clinical settings and seeking unique learning opportunities. Her preceptor noted that she is a "phenomenal addition" to the nursing profession.
• Tabitha Martin was honored with the Mercy Hospital Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Tabitha’s quiet focus and compassionate care have left a lasting impression on clinical staff. Her ability to prioritize patient-centered care with confidence and organizational skill distinguishes her as a future asset to any nursing team.
• Morgan Buffington was recognized with the Phelps Health Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Morgan’s dedication to quality, compassionate care and her willingness to embrace challenges were celebrated. Her preceptor described her as a "good team player" who skillfully translates knowledge into practice.