By Rudi Keller Lawmakers “invaded” the authority of the Missouri Conservation Commission (MCC) when they tried to limit the use of its dedicated funds, the Missouri Supreme Court ruled in mid-June. In the long-anticipated decision, the court split 4-3 over whether appropriation bills could bar the commission from spending money on land acquisition or for…
On Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, and Monday, April 8, 2024, North America will experience two solar eclipses. The Oct. 14 solar eclipse will be a “partial eclipse” for Missouri, and a good chance to practice for the April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse. On April 8, 2024, portions of Southeast Missouri will experience more than…
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways visitor information center previously located in the lobby of the park headquarters building in Van Buren has moved to the newly reopened historic entrance station at Big Spring. Last year, renovations were completed on the Big Spring entrance station. The original Missouri State Parks once used this historic building, continuing…
A groundbreaking ceremony for a new biking and walking trail at the Edward “Ted” and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park was held on June 3. Following a brief program and tour of the new trail, volunteers from Edward Jones planted native Missouri prairie grass in the area. The trustees of Pat Jones’ estate – retired…
The Missouri Conservation Commission met May 18 for a workshop and closed executive session, and May 19 for its regular open meeting. All were held at Washington City Hall Council Chamber, 405 Jefferson St. in Washington, Mo. Commissioners attending the open meeting in person or online were: Mark L. McHenry, chair; Steven D. Harrison, vice…
When finished, new building will be more than double the size of previous structure With a few ceremonial shovelfuls of dirt, the new Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center moved one step closer to becoming a location that can better welcome the large crowds that have literally lined up at…
By Emma J. Murphy JEFFERSON CITY — Discussion at a House Budget Commitee meeting in late April signaled another year of delay for the proposed Rock Island Trail. “We’re still hoping to hear conversations about it. But at this point we don’t see a clear path forward,” said Dan Haug, budget director from the Office of…
Forest Service recreation managers have been working hard to get all the recreation areas cleaned up and ready for use on the Potosi/Fredericktown Ranger District. Silver Mines, Marble Creek, Hazel Creek, Berryman, Brazil Creek, and Wild Boar Ridge Campground at Council Bluff are open for business. Picnic tables awaiting to be installed at new camping…
