Mark Twain National Forest (MTNF) invites anyone ready for a leisurely drive through a beautiful stretch of forest and open woodlands to learn about the restoration work that goes into caring for these landscapes.
Southern Missourians may have seen smoke in the sky in recent weeks from prescribed burns. Some may wonder why these controlled burns are conducted and about their on-the-ground effects.
A new self-paced driving tour in the southern part of the Forest holds the answers to these questions, and more.
Historically, habitat in the Ozarks were shaped by fire, and many plants and animals are adapted to or even dependent on it.
In modern times, prescribed fires are used to: improve forage and habitat for deer, turkey, and other animals; to help keep woodlands and glades open; and to reduce fuels on forest floors to decrease the threat of severe wildfire.
