VOLUME 82, ISSUE 1, JANUARY 2021 MISSOURI SERVING NATURE & YOU CONSERVATIONIST Bald eagle
tufted titmouse
inin winter is BIRDingWinter isAWESOME In Your Yard Get started by putting out a backyard feeder care about and heated water source when natural foods are birds tougher to find. This is especially helpful with North American bird snow cover or very low temperatures. Add a bird populations are declining, guide or online tool such as eBird to help identify and you can help this winter: birds and learn more about their habitat. Make windows safer. To break up reflections and cut on a Walk or Hike down on window strikes, Bundle up and head outside. Birds don’t install stickers, film, or screens hibernate, and less foliage means you may see to the outside of windows. more birds and hear more sounds, from chirping to tree pecking. Remember to wear proper Be a citizen scientist. Learn footwear, layer clothes, and take a snack, your birds by sight and sound, water, and binoculars for a better record sightings on eBird, or pileated view. For a place to go, check out join monitoring efforts. woodpecker greatmissouribirdingtrail.com.
american goldfinch
northern cardinal Enjoy the experience. Birding is fuN! titmouse tufted Contents 33 32 30 28 Year 2020. Fiscal Nature and You:Serving Review Annual 10 DEPARTMENTS FEATURES 5 4 3 2
Get Outside Get In Brief In Nature Lab Up Front With Inbox Outdoor Calendar Outdoor Guide Wild Places To Go Sara ParkerSara Pauley
VOLUME 82, ISSUE 1 ISSUE 82, VOLUME JANUARY 2021 10 32
JOSEPH OBRIEN, USDA FOREST SERVICE, BUGWOOD.ORG mdc.mo.gov/mocon at tablet or phone toissue your Download this CONSERVATIONIST MISSOURI THE CONSERVATION COMMISSION VICE CHAIR Noppadol Paothong, David Stonner Bonnie Chasteen, Kristie Hilgedick, Hilgedick, Bonnie Kristie Chasteen, : Mike Hubbard, Aaron Jeffries, Jeffries, Aaron Hubbard, Mike SECRETARY mdc.mo.gov/conmag
MEMBER NOPPADOL PAOTHONG Shawn Carey, Marci Porter Marci Carey, Shawn CIRCULATION MANAGER Jennifer Battson Warren Jennifer Battson MAGAZINE MANAGER White-tailed deer White-tailed ON THE COVER THE ON CHAIR DEPUTY DIRECTORS ASSOCIATE EDITOR 70 Angie Daly Morfeld PHOTOGRAPHERS 1/500 sec, ISO 400 ISO sec, 1/500 Stephanie Thurber Sara Parker Pauley Parker Sara MAGAZINE STAFF Michael L. Parson L. Michael STAFF WRITERS ART DIRECTOR Laura Scheuler – Larry Archer Larry GOVERNOR
DESIGNERS lens, f/4 200mm DIRECTOR Cliff White Cliff
Wm. L. (Barry) Orscheln (Barry) L. Wm. Joe Jerek
Steven D. Harrison EDITOR Don C. Bedell
Mark L. McHenry L. Mark
Android Download for . Inbox 2 Connect With Us! With Connect Washington Rau Dalton Andrea us each day. offered theof gifts be good stewards all to encourages Your magazine my Missouri!” that’s exclaim, “Now to me prompted November cover The generations. magazine the for Our family has read MISSOURI MY 65102 MO CITY, JEFFERSON BOX 180PO CONSERVATIONIST MISSOURI us: to write or [email protected] Email and clarity. length for edited be may readers’ opinions and Submissions reflect Editor the to Letters
Missouri Conservationist Missouri @ /moconservation MDC_online @
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January 2021January
diverse audience. diverse its address to continues The collected. we antlers the for a place and found friends for greenery with 16). stars Page wooden several Imade (November, andChristmas Thanksgiving past this Decor Holiday Nature’s from inspiration I used HOLIDAYNATURAL DECORATING initiatives. similar taking are states other that hope only Ican Missouri. for future make to abrighter work outstanding performing planners, community local in with unison working MDC at andwomen men have we knowing encouraged I’m very elements. natural back hold to effort futile in the building of levees mentality previous the outweighs far that ecosystem and the to Missourians benefits long-term immeasurable will bring nature with working that I’m confident ( wetlands Missouri’s restore to taken efforts successful the on article Archer’s Larry read to thrilled I was WETLANDS RESTORING businesses. local to even and centers, retirement offices, doctor’s nearby to copies outdated take we your articles, read to our time taking After them. read to wait best. the are photographs and Your topics interesting. all are very magazines Your issue. your October reading We loved CONSERVATIONSHARING MESSAGE Sally and Bill Frederick Frederick Bill and Sally As soon as we receive your magazines we cannot cannot we your magazines receive we as soon As Northeast/Kirksville: Kansas City: Central/Columbia: Girardeau: Southeast/Cape Regional Offices 573-751-4115 Conservation Headquarters Jerry and Stephanie Dandridge Family Dandridge Stephanie and Jerry Wetland Restoration Conservationist via emailvia 816-622-0900
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PO Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180 MO City, 180, Box Jefferson 573-815-7900 660-785-2420
, November, Page 22)., November, Page via email via Dreher Paul 573-290-5730 via emailvia
Ozark/West Plains: Ozark/West 636-441-4554 Louis: St. Joseph:Northwest/St. Southwest/Springfield: KEEP NATURE CLEAN occasional soaring eagle near my home in St. Louis. in my home St. near eagle soaring occasional the as well as trips, all my float on almost them Now, Isee state. in the eagle abald spot to a rarity was it achild, river. As the high above eagle’s nest apriority. resources our of conservation andmakes opportunity, outdoor much so offers that in live astate to blessed I feel articles. and photography exceptional with magazine Conservationist Missouri I love the EAGLES — it. found you how than way.the better nature Leave mayalong you find up trash topick use it and gear outdoor your with asmall sack Include behind. trash no leave hand! you’re ahelping lend When outdoors, can you Trash towildlife. But, is innature harmful litter. andnot properly trash their of dispose should people why of example aperfect but anddisturbing, sad very was It dog. my on ahike fellow with poor this across I came the editors the Floating the Eleven Point River, we spotted an an Point River, Eleven spotted the we Floating
Raccoon 417-256-7161 816-271-3100 417-895-6880 David Louis Breitenfeld St. Dave Kammer Mehlville Kammer Dave . It’s a wonderful awonderful . It’s commissioners mdc.mo.gov/ at form contact online our using anote Send Commissioner? a for Question a Have
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RACCOON: COURTESY DAVE KAMMER Want to see your photos in the Missouri Conservationist? Share your photos on Flickr at Up flickr.com/groups/mdcreaderphotos-2021, email [email protected], or include the hashtag #mdcdiscovernature on your Instagram photos. Front with Sara Parker Pauley
_ ’Twas our annual viewing of It’s a Wonderful Life. Most of our normal holiday traditions had gone by the wayside — we’d hosted none of the typical gatherings, a fake tree replaced a real one for the first time in memory, and most of our deco- rations remained tucked away in the attic. But pandemic or not, we held the line with the film classic and the story of its hero George Bailey, who had to journey to the edge of despair before his reawakening to the true meaning of life and what mattered most. 1 Many say they are eager to see 2020 in the rearview mirror. The COVID pandemic has altered our worlds, perhaps in some ways permanently. Still, as is the nature of life, amid all the 1 | Bobcat by 2 turmoil, there were silver linings — like time to slow down, to lindashannonmorgan, via Instagram reflect, to have conversations around the dinner table versus a fast food drive-thru between ballgames or social events. And 2 | Empty hornet nest by Karen there was a spectacular and rousing return to nature for those McGillis, via email who sought connection, solace, and healing there. As your Department of Conservation, we did our best to 3 | Champion bur oak tree in fog pivot, adapt, and innovate during these uncertain times. We by tree-razzo, took a page from nature’s playbook and embraced these chal- via Flickr lenges as an opportunity to develop resilience, while staying focused on the important work at hand. (See Annual Review 3 on Page 10.) Now heading into 2021, may we all take the best from les- sons learned — to be more resilient, more present, and like George Bailey, remember to always keep front of mind what matters most.
SARA PARKER PAULEY, DIRECTOR [email protected]
The Missouri Conservationist (ISSN 0026-6515) is the official monthly publication of the Missouri Department of Conservation, 2901 West Truman Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO (Mailing address: PO Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102.) SUBSCRIPTIONS: Visit mdc.mo.gov/conmag, or call 573-522- MISSOURI CONSERVATION COMMISSIONERS 4115, ext. 3856 or 3249. Free to adult Missouri residents (one per household); out of state $7 per year; out of country $10 per year. Notification of address change must include both old and new address (send mailing label with the subscriber number on it) with 60-day notice. Preferred periodical postage paid at Jefferson City, Missouri, and at additional entry offices.POSTMASTER : Send correspondence to Circulation, PO Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180. Phone: 573-522-4115, ext. 3856 or 3249. Copyright © 2020 by the Conservation Commission of the State of Missouri. Equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from programs of the Missouri Department of Conserva- tion is available to all individuals without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, or disability. Questions should be directed to the Department of Conservation, PO Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102, 573-751-4115 (voice) or 800-735-2966 (TTY), or Don Steven Mark Barry to Chief, Public Civil Rights, Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of the Interior, 1849 C Street, NW, Bedell Harrison McHenry Orscheln Washington, D.C. 20240. Printed with soy ink mdc.mo.gov 3 LAB Nature 4 at aGlance Bottomland Functional Assessment Present Potential and Tracing Past today. occur they where and historically occurred interactions how habitat summarized which assessment, functional tomland bot aMissouri-based develop to of partners range overlooked.”largely been has occur currently they where quantifying and time, over changed how they’ve functions, these ing “Articulat Nelson. Frank Scientist MDC said wildlife,” and fish of range as a well as people benefit functions water. for clean process essential —an phosphorus and nitrogen cycle and carbon, store flows, stream tain main banks, stream stabilize damage, flood reduce to ability wetlands’ include These functions. often-unseen and important many reduced also they wetlands, steading, farming, and industry-building. home to obstacles swampy saw often they wetlands, _ Assessment Functional Missouri Bottomland and management. wildlife forest, fish, improve to uses MDC research highlight we month, Each WETLAND MANAGEMENT WETLAND
• • • • • •
Missouri Conservationist Missouri
To fill this knowledge gap, MDC worked with a with worked gap,MDC knowledge this To fill ecological it or these not, realize we “Whether Missouri’s developed and changed settlers But as When settlers first encountered Missouri’s Missouri’s encountered first settlers When maintenance flow Stream Phosphorus retention Denitrification Carbon sequestration stabilization bank Stream Flood damage reduction
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January 2021January
Chasteen Bonnie by - - - - much-needed Collaborative conservation effort fills a effort in wetland data gap gap data need functioning bottomland habitat.” bottomland functioning need that wildlife and fish the help as well as pollution water and floods by affected those help to lands wet use could how we understand us ment helps assess The quality. water poor and flooding like problems solve to infrastructure and technology said. he opportunities,” new explore and goals servation con appropriate establish to partners with work can we so trade-offs, potential and occurred have understanding. scientific to according work, systems bottomland howMissouri’s for stating tion functions. ecological for six capacity present and past the ing outlin layers valuable and new several provides This bottomlands. of Missouri’s acres 10.27 million “For example, in the past we’ve often looked to looked we’ve often past the in example, “For that changes the understand to is step first “The afounda provides assessment the said Nelson across dataset geospatial rich is a result The Partners • • • • • • • • •
University of Missouri of University Service Wildlife and Fish U.S. of Engineers Corps Army U.S. NRCS Partnership Assessment Missouri Resource of Transportation Department Missouri of Natural Resources Department Missouri EPA Unlimited Ducks that help clean water and many ecological services reduce flood damage. Black River, provide provide River, Black this one along the corridors, likecorridors, Wide riparian - - - - -
FRANK NELSON DAVID STONNER News and updates OF FEBRUARY OF AT END EXPIRE THE ANGLERS THAT PERMITS MDC REMINDS HUNTERS, PERMITS FISHING HUNTING AND 2021 YOUR BUY
from MDC from MDC Permit Services Unit by calling 573-522-0107 by calling Unit application. an for Services Permit MDC purchase. permit Customer Additional the Select transaction. asingle in devices. Apple for Store App the or devices Android Play for Google through download for available Fishing, MO and Hunting MO apps, mobile around the state, online at at online state, the around of February. end the at expire fishing and hunting combination and fishing, trout fishing, game, small for 2020 permits
Don’t get caught without a permit! Many annual permits, including including permits, annual Many apermit! without caught get Don’t Commercial and lifetime permits can be purchased only through the the through only purchased be can permits lifetime and Commercial people multiple for permits fishing and hunting by buying Save time Buy Missouri hunting and fishing permits from one of many vendors manyof vendors one from permits fishing and hunting Missouri Buy mdc.mo.gov/buypermits In Brief In , or through MDC’s free free MDC’s through , or option during the the during option mdc.mo.gov
5 In Brief
Ask MDC Got a Question for Ask MDC? Send it to [email protected] or call 573-522-4115, ext. 3848.
GIVE A GIFT BACK TO NATURE Q: While hiking at Cathedral MDC forestry staff reminds you not to throw that Canyon, I came across this cut Christmas tree into the trash after the holidays. interesting growth. Can Recycle it! Many communities have a Christmas you tell me what species tree-recycling program. If not, there are several of tree or fungus this is? creative ways to make further use of your tree. h It’s the thin, corky “wings” Place the tree in the backyard to offer cover for on the young branches of wildlife, or under bird feeders for temporary shel- a winged elm (Ulmus alata ter. Add some post-holiday treats as ornaments by Michaux). These flat protrusions coating pinecones with peanut butter and adding are typically up to one-half-inch bird seed. wide on each side of a twig. Have your tree shredded or chipped for mulch, They often become irregular or place cut branches over dormant plants to pro- with age as portions slough off, and they can be totally absent. vide a bit of insulation during the winter and to add Winged elm organic matter as the needles fall. Why some species of plants You can also sink the tree in a pond to enhance and trees grow these winged 5 fish habitat by giving them a place to rest, nest, and structures is not well understood this. Drill a mix of holes 3/8 to /16 escape predators. Multiple live trees make the best by scientists. inches in diameter into a block cover, so work with friends, family, and neighbors Frequently used as a shade of wood. The holes should be to combine efforts. Anchor the trees with concrete tree in the southern United States, 4 to 6 inches deep, but should blocks and sink them in a row about 8 feet deep. winged elms are medium-sized not penetrate through the wood If you used a balled live evergreen and your trees that grow rapidly and are block. Fewer than 20 holes per ground is still soft enough to dig, add it to your relatively pest-free, although block is adequate, since larger home landscape for years of enjoyment and wild- they are susceptible to Dutch colonies with dozens of holes life cover. elm disease. In Missouri, they are have been known to attract most prevalent in the southeast parasites and predators. Protect WINTER TROUT HARVEST BEGINS and along the southern border. the wood blocks from inclement FEB. 1 Rabbits, opossums, squirrels, weather conditions with a roof MDC fisheries staff stocked more than 70,000 rodents, and some birds eat the or a similar overhang. Once rainbow trout in urban-area lakes around the state seeds, and whitetail deer eat the complete, scatter the new bee for winter trout fishing beginning last November. leaves and twigs in the spring. hotels around the perimeter Many of these areas allow anglers to harvest trout of the planted area to protect as soon as they are stocked, while other areas are Q: We are developing 12 them from future catch-and-release until Feb. 1. acres of pollinator grasses prescribed fires. Beginning Feb. 1, all urban-area lakes allow the and would like to install Finally, position harvest of trout. The daily limit at these locations some bee hotels nearby. the houses is four trout with no length limit. All Missouri resi- Do you have any advice with the holes dents older than age 15 and younger than age 65 for how to proceed? facing east. must have a fishing permit. All nonresidents over h Repurposing scraps of age 15 must have a fishing permit. To keep trout, untreated lumber is the easiest
all anglers, regardless of age, must have a Missouri and most affordable way to do CHRISTMAS TREE: DAVID STONNER; WINGED ELM: JERRY HEUER; LEAFCUTTER BEE: JOHNNY N. DELL, BUGWOOD.ORG; BALD EAGLE: PATRICIA HOUGH trout permit. Find locations of winter trout fishing areas at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoH. Leafcutter bee 6 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 Once the bees have emerged the following year, take the hotels down to prevent the spread of fungi, parasites, and disease and do not reuse them. Bee tubes also may be purchased online, but be careful to follow the guidelines for proper length. The tubes need to be fastened together in such a sturdy manner Kyle Dick that wind will not damage them. ATCHISON COUNTY Be cautious of buying bee houses CONSERVATION AGENT online. Most of the commercial offers this month’s ones may look attractive to homeowners, but lack tubes of adequate length and diameter. AGENT For more information, visit short. mdc.mo.gov/ZbG. ADVICE Q: Can you tell me more Bald eagle about this eagle’s pose? If 2020 had you cooped up h Raptors are known to spread and you want to kick-off their wings away from their torsos commonly called the “horaltic to dry their feathers and warm pose,” although that term is less the new year with healthy their bodies. By creating more commonly used when referring habits, check out your surface area, these majestic to bald eagles. Scientists believe nearest conservation area. birds take advantage of the the pose also may help carrion- You will find plenty of sun’s rays on wintry days. When eating birds bake away bacteria vultures and hawks do this, it’s and rid themselves of parasites. opportunities to hike in a safe, socially distanced atmosphere. When hiking in the cold, layers are key. Avoid cotton fabrics, and opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like wool. Wear waterproof shoes or boots. Stay hydrated. Know the signs of cold-related What injuries — frost bite and IS it? hypothermia — and Can you stop if you get too cold. guess this There is no need to tough month’s it out. It’s ideal to hike natural wonder? with others, but if that’s The answer is on not possible, tell someone Page 9. your route. To find a place to hike near you, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Z4V.
mdc.mo.gov 7 In Brief
Spotlight on WE ARE people and partners CONSERVATION by Angie Daly Morfeld Will and Drew Coates h Will and Drew Coates’ passion for habitat management started in the Hill Country of Texas, where they grew up. Both brothers moved to Missouri where the terrain had changed, but their passion for improving it had not. Residing in Lee’s Summit, Will and Drew sold their lawn and garden equipment manufacturing business in 2015 and purchased 500 acres in St. Clair County, east of Osceola.
Our own canvas The brothers began with an aggressive timber stand improvement plan that includes cedar removal, hardwood thinning, and prescribed fire, and supplemented it with a pollinator set-aside and warm-season grasses for deer and turkeys. They’ve also installed two water features for amphibians and mammals and five permanent wildlife openings.
In their own words “We’re at year five of our efforts and it’s fascinating to see the property transformation,” Will said. “Our turkey population has exploded and the deer herd is reaching Brothers Will (left) and carrying capacity. MDC Drew Coats do timber stand has been an outstanding improvement to open up a partner to our efforts — we glade on their property in couldn’t be happier.” west central Missouri.
: by Cliff White
What’s your conservation superpower?
8 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 ROBERT MCGRATH: COURTESY MCGRATH FAMILY; PANCAKE ICE: DAVID STONNER or the App Store for Apple devices. Apple for Store App or the devices Android for Play Google through MO Hunting Hunting MO through the MDC free mobile app app mobile free MDC the through online mdc.mo.gov/buypermits at state, the around vendors numerous short.mdc.mo.gov/ZZy at site web MDC’s visit hunting in Missouri, turkey about To more learn in February. beginning sold are permits where able tions and Information 2021 Turkey Spring Regula Hunting in MDC’s available will hunting key be 9. May 19 running April through season spring end will be April 10 April willend be 15. March starting posted will be results Drawing webpage. the on outlined are procedures application keyhunts Feb. 1 Feb. hunts managed 2021 turkey spring online for apply can hunters turkey and firearms archery, youth, Missouri APPLY FOR SPRING MANAGED HUNTS TURKEY Buy Missouri hunting permits from from hunting permits Missouri Buy tur on spring information Detailed Spring turkey hunting youth week youth hunting turkey Spring – 28 mdc.mo.gov/springtur at solid sheet ofsolid ice. sheet a freeze to form together individualthe pancakes can below freezing. In time,just and air temperatures action in wave some areasform with and They up to thick. 4 inches 1tofrom 10 in diameter feet resemble lily range pads, ice, frozen these which disks, pancake as Known surface. water’s the of ice dotting slabs circular may have seen inriver winter you the months, you’veIf near been alake or ICE PANCAKE WHAT . Managed hunt details and hunt details . Managed — available for download download for available – 11 regular the with booklet, avail booklet,
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portion of firearms deer season, with 91,917with season, deer firearms of being antlered portion andself-inflicted. all non-fatal being with season deer firearms the of portion November during the outdoors. andenjoy the out get still can age, you your what matter No passions. lifelong his and enjoy of one out go to continue can he that it quite incredible find They lovers. andnature enthusiasts, sports shooting anglers, hunters, of many generations and encouraged inspired has he says family His his son. in Columbia with lives there, property owns still and area Millersburg the from is who land. McGrath, private on buck anine-point took who 98, McGrath, Robert veteran early.” mark year’s last behind falling numbers in harvest resulting season, the start to high and winds rain by greeted were hunters Unfortunately, season. the of days two first during the occurs harvest the of half cally, about “Typi Isabelle. Jason Supervisor Program Cervid MDC said weekend,” on opening particularly conditions, challenging 3,374. 3,409,lin andTexas with with Frank 3,496 harvested, with deer Howell were counties vest Top 64,905 and har does. were bucks, 16,045 button were bucks, antlered were 95,654 176,604 the Of harvested, deer November portion of the fall firearms season Nov. season 14 firearms fall the of portion November 176,604 during the deer harvested in Missouri hunters Deer PORTION FIREARMS NOVEMBER DURING 176,604 HARVEST HUNTERS DEER Hunters checked 179,960 checked Hunters 2019 during the deer November hunting incidents firearms-related three reported MDC War Marine II World was hunters successful the Among the given total harvest an impressive posted “Hunters – 24. 24. - - - son runs through Jan. 15. through runs son sea Jan. 5, through andarchery runs short.mdc.mo.gov/Z3M visit years, mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table extra. deer, of visit type and county, season, by totals harvest preliminary 70,713and ongoing For does. being 17,330 bucks, bucks, button being of the fall firearms season. firearms fall the of the recent November portion buck on private land during this nine-point 98, on harvesting McGrath, Robert veteran Marine toCongratulations World War II The alternative methods portion portion methods alternative The past from summaries harvest For mdc.mo.gov
. . 9 - 10 “P outside. Bikes and camping gear camping and outside. Bikes camp,enjoy being simply or fish, hunt, walk, bike, hike, outdoors to well-being. outdoors own for their the needed —people chaos the from a common emerged theme we serve, for public as the And resilience. our resolve, grow our and check processes, our to evaluate opportunity great a of Conservation Department the it presented uncertainty, it and fear with year, bringing last communities unlikely. is success sustained then established, habits and priorities or isn’t place, process in or framework underlying the if that know weon, all wanes but time intentions clear, as and strong is when willpower year of a new start at the particularly King. Elizabeth
Many Missourians flocked to the to flocked Missourians Many our through surged COVID When me, quote resonates with This Missouri Conservationist Missouri said American sculptor sculptor American said intention,” of our poverty the from saves us rocess Review
Annual Annual Serving Nature and You:Serving
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Fiscal YearFiscal 2020 January 2021January
July 1, 2019
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June 30, 2020 and streams. One example — the —the example One streams. and lakes, forests, to our fields, droves citizens. its to abarrier be might cost of apermit the more to people get outdoors, noting to encourage permits for fishing requirements waived Commission Conservation Missouri The stores. sporting-goods the shelves at off flew Hunters and anglers came out in out in came anglers Hunters and SARA PARKER PAULEY, DIRECTOR
Together anything is possible. is anything Together trust. public the maintaining and nature, with people connecting of nature, care taking we are ensure to —all times uncertain and unrest, political and social despite pandemics, partners, committed help of our the with staff MDC by made plishments accom some great see of the you will review, annual of few pages our next the In resolve our intact. clear, ties priori place, were in Processes hand. work at conservation critical on the presented, others stayed focused COVID pivot challenges to meet the outdoor new to skills. acquire hungry People seemed to be open, even enjoy safely. could anyone activities promoting outdoor Naturalists MDC with events Facebook Live weekly included connections New time. first for very the online MDC with engaged Missourians Many classes. virtual the in participated hundreds as spiked Registrations butterflies. and birdwatching, backyard gardens, rain wildflowers, featuring programs online developed team Our option. aviable programming virtual to make quickly shifted team MDC the cancelled, were immediately States. United the across sales license fishing in a14documented percent increase 2020) data (Unpublished dation Foun Fishing and Boating ational Recre The well. as country the across mirrored was activity angling total. 2019 the from increase a7percent 41,461 turkeys, harvested hunters season, regular and youth the 8percent. During hunters increased turkey spring of Missouri number While some MDC staff needed to to needed some staff MDC While programs in-person MDC Though and hunting in increase This - - - -
TAYLOR LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY State of Missouri Operating Budget
Total State of Missouri Operating Education Budget for Fiscal Year 2020
$29,757,795,223 Services Social Health and Government ServicesGovernment
Missouri State Transportation Operating Budget MDC represents less than 1 percent of
the total state budget and receives no Resources Economic Natural &
state general revenue. Conservation
9.7% 3.0% 0.6% 46.0% 25.6% 15.1%
MDC Receipts MDC Disbursements MDC gets the majority of its funding through the Funds are distributed throughout the divisions to conservation sales tax. For every $8 spent on accomplish the top conservation priorities across the taxable items, one penny goes to conservation. state for MDC.
Conservation Sales Tax...... $123,010,768 Capital Improvements...... $29,498,017 Permit Sales...... $34,788,222 Wildlife...... $23,462,979 Federal Reimbursements. . . . . $33,498,035 Forestry...... $18,636,784 Sales and Rentals...... $6,421,073 Protection...... $17,410,963 Other Sources...... $3,416,116 Outreach and Education...... $16,668,606 Interest...... $1,537,451 Information Technology...... $15,323,652 Fisheries ...... $14,451,221 1.7% <1% 3.2% Design and Development...... $14,312,116 Resource Science ...... $13,686,282 16.5% Administrative Services...... $10,529,440 Conservation Sales Tax 60.7% Private Land Services...... $9,618,308 Administration...... $4,088,499 Permit Sales County Assistance Payments...... $2,686,946 TOTAL Federal ReimbursementsHuman Resources...... $2,546,570 Regional Public Contact Offices...... $2,214,489 RECEIPTS Sales and Rentals
17.2% Other Sources
Interest NOTE: Disbursements include all operating, other agency, and capital improvements from the Conservation Commission Fund. Other agency disbursements are appropriated outside the Department of Conservation operating budget. Fuel, benefits, and other disbursements were allocated to the appropriate divisions.
SOURCE: Missouri Office of Administration mdc.mo.gov 11 MDC Takes Care of Nature We protect and manage Missouri’s fish, forests, and wildlife, so you can enjoy healthy and sustainable resources now and in the future. Monarch butterfly
Youth Pollinator Event More than 40 children and their families attended the Youth Pollinator Event on Feb. 29, 2020. Hosted by MDC, Mid-Mo Uplanders Quail Forever Chapter, and A.L. Gustin Golf Course in Columbia, the event introduced children to pollinators, such as butterflies, and the important role they play in the environ- Monitoring ment. The children also spread native seed on a half-acre tract The Missourians for Monarchs and Pollinators Collaborative of property on the golf course. was formed in 2016 and has over 45 partners working to restore Over the past 20 years, the staff at A.L. Gustin Golf Course pollinator habitat in Missouri. They set a goal of 385,000 acres has worked to enhance natural communities on the course of habitat that would benefit monarch butterflies. This goal — restoring habitat for wildlife and pollinators. This work has been exceeded with over 448,000 acres of habitat reported has made A.L. Gustin the first university golf course in the restored. The acreage comes primarily from MDC conservation country to achieve full certification in water conservation, areas and private land cost-share programs. The collaborative is environmental planning, outreach and education, water quality acquiring drone technology that will save volunteers thousands management, integrated pest management, and wildlife and of hours in determining if enough milkweed is present in these habitat management. areas to impact monarch populations.
12 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 MONARCH: NOPPADOL PAOTHONG; GROUSE: JIM RATHERT and nearby on private properties continues. properties on private nearby and areas conservation work on the Habitat 2021. September and August until relocation grouse of the year last the delay to agreed Resources of Natural Department Wisconsin the and effort. restoration for this success early shows which properties, on their sightings grouse reported have area the in landowners private several surveys, the during detected grouse the to addition In grouse. three tional addi an flushed and grouse drumming seven detected Staff areas. conservation Boone Daniel and Creek Lost Little on both surveys annually. are conducted These surveys. ming drum grouse as known wings, drumming birds’ for the listening begun have researchers MDC effort, restoration of the success the 2019. in To CA Boone monitor Daniel to relocated were 100 grouse additional An CA. Creek Lost Little to relocated and trapped were Wisconsin from northern grouse ruffed of east-central Missouri. Region Hills River the in populations grouse restore to a plan developed MDC area, the in lands private and CA, Creek Lost Little (CA), Area Conservation Boone Daniel on efforts management habitat of intensive years many After decline. their in resulted hunting market and loss habitat 1900s, early the however, by state; of the most throughout present ( grouse Ruffed Restoration Grouse Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MDC MDC pandemic, COVID-19 the to Due drumming conducted 2020, staff April In of 2018, 100 September and August In Bonasa umbellus Bonasa ) were once) were - - Record Fish • • • • methods. alternative by taken were seven and line, and pole by caught were records of the Seven FY20. in catches 14 to record-breaking year. He contributed one in records state four broke who Rackers, Bryant ask Just fish. to place a great is Missouri • • • • • • • • • •
from Bull Creek in Taney County. in Creek Bull from inches 194/5 measuring shad gizzard 13-ounce a2-pound, caught Rogersville, Jacob Morgan, County. Taney in Taneycomo Lake from 41¼ inches measuring trout brown 6-ounce a40-pound, Blue Babler, Eye, caught Bill County. Perry in pond at aprivate line jug by 16 inches measuring bullhead black 13-ounce a2-pound, hooked Perryville, Sparkman, Cody County. Wayne in River Francis St. the in line and pole by inches 34½ measuring gar spotted 2-ounce 6-pound, a caught Wappapello, Dering, Mitchell Stoddard County. Stoddard in CA Creek Duck from sucker spotted 4-ounce 5-pound, a hooked Bluff, Poplar Tyler Goodale, County. Stoddard in CA Creek Duck from sucker spotted 6-ounce a3-pound, caught Williamsville, Garver, John County. Madison in pond a private from shad gizzard 9-ounce 3-pound, a caught Fredericktown, Duncan, Joseph County. Taney in Taneycomo Lake from inches 23 measuring sucker white 1-ounce a5-pound, caught Ava, Lakey, Justin County. Osage in River Osage the from 18½ inches measuring redhorse shorthead 6-ounce 2-pound, a caught Mill, Bonnots Rackers, Bryant Taney County. in Lake Shoals Bull from 149/10 inches measuring perch yellow 3-ounce a2-pound, caught Holiday, Fordland, Brian County. Nodaway in pond aprivate from 147/8 inches measuring perch yellow 14-ounce a1-pound, hooked Maryville, Tyler Halley, County. Osage in River Osage the from inches 171/8 measuring sauger 1-ounce 2-pound, a caught Mill, Bonnots Rackers, Bryant County. Osage in River Osage the from inches 105/16 measuring perch white 10-ounce a caught Mill, Bonnots Rackers, Bryant County. Osage in River Osage the from inches 205/8 measuring herring skipjack 3-pound a hooked Mill, Bonnots Rackers, Bryant mdc.mo.gov
13 Turkey Management Plan MDC is revising the Missouri Wild Turkey Management Plan. As part of the process, MDC hosted a partner meeting May 18, 2020. Due to COVID-19, eight partners from a variety of agencies and nongovern- mental organizations met online and provided input on the plan. Public input was collected on the revised Wild Turkey Management Plan from June 1–July 1, 2020. Almost 700 people provided comments via the online questionnaire, while some were received through handwritten letters, emails, and the Wildlife Health comment box. Comments were received from eight states in addition to Missouri. For more information about the state’s Wild Turkey Management Plan, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Z2W.
Peanut the turtle
Due to COVID-19, Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center was closed, but that didn’t stop Peanut’s fans from sending love. Peanut was flooded with cards and well-wishes. Peanut Recovers from Surgery Peanut the turtle returned to Powder Valley Conservation into a plastic six-pack ring and it stuck around her shell. As her Nature Center in Kirkwood after undergoing surgery at the St. shell grew, it was constricted by the plastic ring and developed Louis Zoo May 4. Due to a condition known as follicular stasis, an unusual, figure-eight shape. In 1993, when she was about Peanut had to have both of her ovaries surgically removed. The nine years old, someone found her and brought her to the St. condition prevented her from eating properly and stressed her Louis Zoo where the ring was removed. other organs, like the liver and lungs. They named her Peanut because of her shell’s shape and gave The 36-year-old Peanut has attracted attention all over her to staff at MDC. Peanut has been under the care of MDC Missouri, along with national and worldwide fame, as an anti- since then, where she has served as a popular ambassador for littering mascot. At a young age, the red-eared slider wandered litter awareness.
14 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 PEANUT THE TURTLE: TAMIE YEGGE; FLOOD: DAVID STONNER; TURKEY: NOPPADOL PAOTHONG area were held. were area on the hunts dove No managed season. the of remainder the for hours shooting legal during and season hunting dove the of days seven first the during p.m. 1 after to but limited permitted was hunting Dove landscape. area’s entire the changing effectively and privies, and lots parking roads, like facilities burying or completely nearly high, feet 4 were deposits the portions, many In area. the using doves few very reported staff Bottom Columbia area. the throughout mud left were and silt sive fields. sunflower planting including management, dove normal perform to unable were staff MDC so flooding, due near-record to water under summer and spring of the most spent Bottom Columbia 1. on Sept. opening statewide season’s the to 2019 prior Lake Spanish in CA Bottom at Columbia procedures hunting dove normal changed MDC in 2019, flooding spring damaging to Due Columbia Bottom Dove at Season Impacts Flooding Once the floodwaters - exten receded, no morning draw for hunting positions. for hunting draw no morning was but there 2019–2020 season, duck the during headquarters at area tion self-registra through zones hunting at waterfowl available was hunting waterfowl opportunistic Some work. construction delayed basin, River Osage the 2019 in August through persisting and 2018 October starting flooding, But severe drained. were wetlands and Lake Schell begin. could project the so 2018–2019 the seasons during hunting shorebirds. and waterfowl including species, wetland of for arange habitat wetland better and provide lake the in fishing improves project The lake. the to adjacent for wetlands pump awater and levees as such structures, control water and River. Osage the along in 2019 flooding summer and spring due major to delayed were CA at Schell-Osage Renovations Delays Project Schell-Osage: The area was closed to waterfowl waterfowl to closed was area The Lake Schell improve The renovations - bottoms prevented access. river the in bridges and roads public to damage flood because hunters to able unavail essentially were Holt counties and Atchison in River Missouri the along entrance. the near self-register could but hunters canceled, was positions for hunting system draw The morning breached. were levees River Missouri bottoms. River Missouri the along Missouri, northwest in 2019–2020the season during opportunities hunting fowl water winter and fall affected Flooding Missouri Northwest mo.gov/Z5C at short.mdc. online work progress watchers, hunters, and anglers. wildlife for waterfowl, better area the make to partners of conservation group adiverse from dedicated been has that $3.5 million the match to grant the use will Unlimited Ducks and MDC Act. tion Conserva Wetlands American North federal the from grant match million a$1 from help with forward move will Most of the other conservation areas areas conservation other ofMost the Forest City, near CA, Brown Bob At and plans follow can public The CA at Schell-Osage Renovations . mdc.mo.gov
Overton flood
15 - - - Poaching Penalties Increase On July 11, 2019, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed HB260. Called the Poaching Bill, it significantly raised fines for those convicted of illegally taking Missouri game species and other native wildlife. HB260 was sponsored by Representative Jered Taylor (Republic) and Senator Mike Bernskoetter (Jefferson City). New fine amounts include $10,000–$15,000 for each elk or black bear killed illegally, $1,000–$5,000 for each white-tailed buck, $500–$1,000 for each wild turkey, and $500–$1,000 for each paddlefish. The fines are considered restitution payments for poaching game animals and are ordered by a judge. Monies from the fines go to the state’s school monies fund. The restitution payments are in addition to other fines and penalties for violating the Wildlife Code of Missouri. The new fines went into effect Aug. 28, 2019. MDC and the Missouri Conservation Commission also increased the penalty points given to individuals convicted of violating the Wildlife Code of Missouri for illegal activities, including poaching. According to MDC records, 547 wild turkeys, 58 paddlefish, and 4,731 deer were illegally taken, or poached, in 2017 and 2018. MDC is also investigating the poaching of five elk over the past several years. Black bear poaching incidents are a growing concern as well. Arrests in Walnut Timber Theft An investigation into walnut timber theft in southwest Missouri resulted in multiple felony and misdemeanor charges against eight suspects in July 2019. MDC conservation agents began the investigation in early 2018, working with sheriff’s departments in Benton, Cedar, Henry, St. Clair, and Vernon counties, the El Dorado Springs Police Department, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other MDC staff. According to MDC Protection Captain Joni Bledsoe, walnut timber with an overall saw log value of $61,804 was taken off public lands in Henry, Benton, St. Clair, and Vernon counties. Bledsoe noted the trees also had a scenic value to people, and a food and habitat value for wildlife. In addition to the thefts A conservation agent uses swift-water from public lands managed by MDC and the Corps of Engi- rescue training in times of flooding. neers, thefts from private lands, including property owned by the Nature Conservancy, were reported. MDC asks the public to be on alert for illegal timber theft and report any suspicious activity to the Operation Game Thief take of deer during closed season, two misdemeanors for the hotline at 1-800-392-1111. For information about the Opera- illegal possession of wildlife parts, one misdemeanor charge for tion Game Thief hotline, visitshort.mdc.mo.gov/ZoB . taking furbearers in closed season, as well as both misdemeanor and felony drug possession, and drug paraphernalia charges. Poaching Arrest Each wildlife misdemeanor charge comes with a potential fine Throughout October 2019, conservation agents working the area of as much as $2,000 and/or one year in jail. With the recent near the Lake of the Ozarks responded to multiple complaints passage and signing of Missouri House Bill 260 by Gov. Parson, of dead deer with only the heads, tenderloins, and other parts authorities may also seek restitution of $1,000–$5,000 for each removed. A call to the Operation Game Thief hotline ultimately antlered deer, with all associated monetary penalties going to led investigators to a suspect in the Tuscumbia area who now public schools in the counties where the violations occurred. faces charges in Miller and Shannon counties. The firearms, including a .30-06 rifle, a .243 rifle, and a .22 Harold P. Piatt, 23, was charged with 14 misdemeanors for rifle, suspected of being used to commit the violations, were the illegal take of deer with the aid of artificial light and the also seized.
16 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 AGENT: DAVID STONNER; DOVE, DEER: NOPPADOL PAOTHONG • • • regulations: new The season. the 2020deer in reflected were and Feb. effective 29, 2020, became changes The taxidermists. and for meatprocessors parts of carcass disposal the and Missouri within and into parts carcass and carcasses of deer transport the to regulations added MDC CWD, of spread the slow to efforts ongoing of its part As 2020 for Carcasses Deer of Disposal and Transportation for New Rules Passes MDC at more Learn state. the in rare relatively remains disease the so 137,000 out of more 2012 than sampled, since deer Missouri in of CWD 162 found cases has MDC it infects. animals all kills eventually that family deer of the members other and Zone. Management CWD the within processors meat and taxidermists participating through and hours business regular during offices regional at MDC season hunting deer entire the throughout Missouri in anywhere harvested of deer testing and sampling CWD tary zone. the throughout stations sampling CWD numerous oneto of MDC’s of harvest day on the attached) of neck 6inches at least (or with deer head the harvested their take to required were Hunters Zone. Management CWD the as known counties, 29 in stations sampling (CWD) disease wasting 17,16 and chronic 2019, upmandatory set MDC Nov.season, deer firearms of the weekend opening During Disease Wasting Chronic short.mdc.mo.gov/Zgt visit lations, prone. areflood that areas are conservation These areas. conservation on several species wildlife for all shotguns with hunting for all prohibited shot of was lead or possession use the addition, In areas. conservation at 20 MDC hunting requirement. the to areas more conservation added Commission Conservation Missouri the by approved regulations New wildlife. in poisoning of lead incidences the since 1991 because the requirement been shown to has reduce shot nontoxic 2019. used in have hunters Waterfowl starting areas conservation public shot on many nontoxic required MDC Shot Nontoxic Dove Hunting,
county of harvest within the CWD Management Zone, except except Zone, Management CWD the within of harvest county out of the carcasses of cervid whole transportation the Limit of entry hours 48 within taxidermist a to licensed taken are they if Missouri into capes attached with heads of cervid importation for the Allow state the into carcasses cervid of whole transportation Restrict mdc.mo.gov/cwd CWD is a deadly, infectious disease in white-tailed deer deer white-tailed in disease infectious adeadly, is CWD volun free offered MDC weekend, opening to addition In shot nontoxic regu new MDC’s about For more information fordove prohibited was shot of lead possession or use The under “CWD in Missouri.” in “CWD under Wildlife Code of Missouri Code Wildlife . regarding the the regarding - - mation mation 2020 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Infor and 2020 &Turkey Regulations Fall Deer the Hunting and • • • short.mdc.mo.gov/ZZf
of cervid carcass disposal. carcass of cervid records keep taxidermists and meat processors that Require and station; transfer waste or landfill permitted aproperly in remains carcass cervid to discard taxidermists and meat processors Require products taxidermy finished and skills, or cleaned plates skull to attached removed), antlers tissue excess all (with hides cleaned antlers, attached, column spinal the without quarters out, or boned wrapped and cut is that meat includes which Zone, Management CWD the within of harvest county out of the parts carcass of low-risk transportation the Allow hours 48 within processor or meat taxidermist apermitted to transported being those Full regulations are available in the the in available are regulations Full booklet, available where permits are sold and online at online and sold are permits where available booklet, . Wildlife Code of Missouri of Missouri Code Wildlife
Mourning dove mdc.mo.gov
17 -
Feral Hogs on Public Land counties. Recreational hunting of feral hogs complicates efforts In December 2019, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) announced to trap and eliminate them. Hunting activities, particularly its decision to prohibit feral hog hunting on public land in the hunting with dogs, scatters the sounder and makes hogs trap- Mark Twain National Forest (MTNF). While prohibiting hog shy and wary of baited sites, which makes trapping efforts hunting, the USFS decision allows for the “opportunistic take” aimed at catching the entire group very difficult. This pattern of feral hogs in the MTNF during all deer and turkey hunting has been repeated in several states where the combination of seasons, effective beginning with the 2019–2020 seasons. With recreational hunting and trapping programs has resulted in a the USFS announcement, the Missouri Feral Hog Elimination larger feral hog population. Examples from other states and Partnership developed an operational plan to provide addi- from large areas of private land in Missouri show that allowing tional staff and resources on private and public land around state and federal wildlife managers to eliminate feral hogs MTNF. The Conservation Commission is providing $1.8 million yields the best results. annually to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for trapping A group of 10 hogs can destroy 10 to 20 acres overnight, services, and MDC staff contribute more than 25,000 hours including crops, causing financial burdens on Missouri’s land- annually towards feral hog elimination on private and public owners and agricultural producers. land. Other agencies are contributing staff and resources and Feral hogs are known to carry diseases such as swine brucel- will be stepping up their fight against feral hogs. The new plan losis, pseudorabies, trichinosis, porcine reproductive and respi- will reassign staff from across the state to help with feral hog ratory syndrome, and leptospirosis. The reintroduction of these removal in southern Missouri. For information about MDC diseases into the domestic hog population would be devastating efforts to eliminate feral hogs, go tomdc.mo.gov/feralhog . to the agriculture industry. Following the USFS announcement, the Conservation Feral hogs spend a lot of time rooting and wallowing, behav- Commission approved identical regulations to ensure consis- iors that contribute to soil erosion, reduce water quality, and tency regarding opportunistic take of feral hogs during all deer damage agricultural crops and hay fields, as well as destroy and turkey hunting seasons on USFS and MDC managed lands. sensitive natural areas such as glades, fens, and springs. Feral Feral hogs became established in southern Missouri after hogs will eat nearly anything they encounter, including deer being released for hunting. Between natural reproduction and fawns and turkey nests. They compete directly with native wild- continued illegal releases, the feral hog population exploded in life by eating acorns, a major fall food source for deer, turkey, southern Missouri and has spread to more than 30 Missouri and black bear.
A sounder, or group, of feral hogs gathers in the wild.
18 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 Missouri Increases Feral Hog Elimination Efforts, Adapts Strategy for 2020 In 2019, the Missouri Feral Hog Elimination Partnership eliminated 10,495 feral hogs from Missouri, and increased The strategy is to pinpoint the location of a sounder and those efforts in 2020. Some of the partnership members remove the entire sounder, keep feral hog numbers from participating in on-the-ground trapping efforts include MDC, increasing in the heart of the population and stop the spread of the U.S. Forest Service, USDA APHIS Wildlife Services, and the feral hogs into new areas. Technicians will strategically remove L-A-D Foundation. feral hogs along the perimeter of the known hog population, Increased efforts included a workforce focused on feral hog shrinking it until the hogs are eliminated. elimination in key areas, including Mark Twain National Forest Trapping feral hogs takes place year round. Effort is lands, beginning in late January. The partnership established increased during the summer and winter months when food a unified incident command structure to manage the effort is either scarce or when hogs are around water sources and efficiently and effectively. This structure allowed staff from wallows. These are times of the year when trappers see even across the partnership organizations to work more efficiently greater success. together. Monitoring for new populations or releases of hogs to The partnership’s mission is to eliminate feral hogs in re-establish populations, is another key component of elimi- Missouri by implementing the Statewide Strategic Plan for nating feral hogs. Genetic testing completed by USDA, APHIS Feral Hog Elimination. This is a strategic incremental approach, Wildlife Services’ National Feral Swine Genetic Archive team, clearing each watershed inhabited by feral hogs one at a time. has identified 14 distinct genetic populations of feral hogs in Beginning in 2016, agencies involved in the partnership Missouri. Their work has shown that one out of every eight significantly increased feral swine removal efforts and put in hogs tested in Missouri comes from a genetic source outside place hunting prohibitions consistent with the hog elimination Missouri. Trappers frequently encounter hogs that indicate plan. This has resulted in the total elimination of feral swine they have been released, such as castrated boars, one or both from 116 watersheds totaling over 2.7 million acres previously ears removed, ear notches, and holes in ears, indicating the occupied by feral hogs. previous presence of an ear tag. Trappers have also seen an Efforts on private land are only in partnership with the increase in domestic breed hogs that have been released. landowner. Landowners receive assistance from MDC and Report feral hog sightings or damage, and learn more about USDA employees to trap and remove the feral hogs. Success is feral hog elimination at mdc.mo.gov/feralhogs. Sign up to measured in acres covered by staff, number of hogs removed, receive updates from the Missouri Feral Hog Elimination Part- number of landowners assisted, and watersheds cleared of hogs. nership at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.
MDC Oversees Return of Elk Hunting In October and December 2020, MDC oversaw the state’s first-ever regulated elk hunting season. MDC received 19,182 Resident Antlered Elk Applications and 33 Resi- dent Landowner Antlered Elk Applications. From those applicants, MDC issued five permits for the inaugural season — four to members of the public and one to a qualifying landowner in MDC’s elk hunting zone. The return of elk hunting came after years of restoration efforts of the native species by MDC, numerous partners, including the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and many supporters, including local communities and landowners. For this first elk season, MDC designated a nine-day archery portion that ran Oct. 17–25 and a nine-day fire- arms portion that ran Dec. 12–20. The five permits were for bull elk and valid for both portions. All permits were ELK: DAVID STONNER; FERAL HOGS: MARK MCCLAIN assigned through a random-lottery drawing. Learn more about elk restoration in Missouri at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZYJ.
mdc.mo.gov 19 Changes to Coyote Hunting, Invasive Species Control The Missouri Conservation Commission approved regulation changes to theWildlife Code of Missouri regarding coyote hunting and feral hog control. In response to citizen requests, MDC presented the proposed changes, which included the use of night vision, infrared or thermal imagery equipment, or artificial light to hunt coyotes from Feb. 1–Mar. 31. In addition, the changes allow for landowners or their representatives to use night vision and infrared or thermal imagery equipment without approval from a conservation agent to address damage-causing feral hogs. MDC received public comment on the proposed changes through July 31, 2020. For more information on nuisance and problem species, visit the MDC website at short.mdc.mo.gov/Z5L.
Tiger and Lily Celebrate Birthday Tiger and Lily, the two-headed western ratsnake that is on display at MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center, celebrated her second birthday in October 2019. The snake, a female that was found in Stone County in the fall of 2017, has grown quite a bit and is about 2 feet in length. A polycephalous — or two-headed animal — would be extremely vulnerable to predation in the wild. A two-headed snake wouldn’t have the ability to escape into the holes and crevices that normal snakes can fit into. In a captive situation, however, a two-headed snake’s chances of surviving are improved. A two-headed western ratsnake that was found in 2005 is on display at the Missouri Depart- ment of Conservation’s Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center.
MDC, Partners Seek Help For more information on the Missouri How to Help Reversing Bird Decline Bird Conservation Plan, bird species at • Plant natives A recent study from prominent bird risk, and land management needs, visit • Use window stickers to reduce researchers in the U.S. and Canada, short.mdc.mo.gov/ZAF. collisions including Cornell Lab of Ornithology, There are roughly 335 bird species • Be a citizen scientist found that North America has lost that commonly occur in Missouri. Of nearly 3 billion birds in the last 50 years, that number, 29 are included in the For citizen scientist and those declines are also occurring in Missouri Bird Conservation Plan. The opportunities, visit: Missouri. list includes the eastern meadowlark, • greatmissouribirdingtrail.com Over the past year, MDC has been prairie warbler, northern bobwhite, • eBird: ebird.org/science/status- working with the U.S. Forest Service, eastern whip-poor-will, and red-headed and-trends regional bird conservation group Joint woodpecker. • National Audubon Christmas Bird Ventures, Missouri River Bird Observa- Count: audubon.org/conservation/ tory, and other land-management agen- science/christmas-bird-count cies and organizations to develop the • US Geological Survey’s Breeding Missouri Bird Conservation Plan. The Bird Survey: pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs plan was created to help reverse dwin- dling bird populations by focusing state- • Other citizen bird science efforts: birds.cornell.edu/citizenscience/ wide conservation efforts across agencies about-the-projects and organizations toward shared goals. The Missouri Bird Conservation Plan • Three Billion Birds Gone: 3billionbirds.org outlines the state’s most threatened bird species and their level of statewide concern, their land management needs, and threats to the species and their habitats. With this information, land management agencies and organizations and property owners can work together to enhance breeding habitats for these priority bird species. King rail Grasshopper sparrow
20 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 NOPPADOL PAOTHONG; TIGER AND LILY: FRANCIS SKALICKY We places provide for to you enjoy by showing off hercatch.by showingoff and thisyounganglerproves it Missouri isagreat placetofish, outside and cast aline. cast and outside get to state the around prompted anglers 7also 6and June Days Free Fishing statewide MDC’s droves. of it in advantage took people and mid-April through March late from permits for fishing requirements waived Commission Conservation state. the around areas conservation many MDC’s on outside being enjoy simply and fish, hunt, walk, bike, hike, to outdoor offerings of the advantage took Missourians Many open. remained — nature facilities other and ranges, shooting centers, nature offices, MDC —including spring last work sites other and businesses many closed COVID-19 While Outdoors the Flock to Folks with Nature with nature and opportunities for to you and opportunities nature learn about and discover nature. aboutlearn and discover Connects People People Connects MDC MDC To help folks get a reprieve from being homebound, the the homebound, being from To get a reprieve folks help
health during outdoor activities in the time of COVID-19. time the in outdoor activities during health public regarding recommendations all to heed to continue 2019. spring to compared spring last permits —bought residents Missouri — mostly hunters 2019. turkey 9,600 About spring more in spring than 2,659 more birds, 41,454 harvesting hunters turkey spring more. and butterflies, life, stream gardens, rain wildflowers, to fishing, and hunting from of topics variety on a wide events and programs virtual online numerous offered and developed department the months, Throughout it all, MDC reminded the public that it is critical critical is it that the public reminded MDC all, it Throughout with closures the through continued seasons hunting MDC for several cancelled were programs in-person MDC While mdc.mo.gov
21 Record Number of New Turkey Hunters Missouri turkey hunters, in both the youth and regular seasons, harvested 41,461 turkeys in 2020, a 7 percent increase from the 2019 harvest total. The increase is likely due to an increase in hunter participation. There were 133,022 unique turkey hunters during the 2020 season, an increase of 8 percent from the 2019 season. Resident and youth permit sales were up by 25 and 24 percent respectively from 2019; however, there were 17 percent fewer nonresident permits sold in 2020 than in Closures 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in school To protect the public amid ongoing COVID-19 concerns, MDC closures, work layoffs, and the cancellation of extracurricular closed nature centers, visitor centers, and education centers activities, it is possible hunters had more time to participate around the state to visitors in March 2020. in turkey season this year. Despite the closures, all conservation areas, area trails, and The following are turkey permit sales from the past five boat accesses remained open to the public. MDC offices and years. The numbers provided are unique turkey hunters for shooting ranges also remained open under normal operating each year. hours. Hunting, fishing, and trapping seasons continued as 2020...... 133,022 scheduled, as did managed hunts and mentored spring turkey hunts. 2019 ...... 123,380 To connect people with nature during the pandemic, MDC 2018 ...... 129,820 offered more of its nature-focused programs through online 2017 ...... 137,046 formats. Online offerings made it more convenient and comfort- able for people to attend the programs virtually from wherever they were in the state — and beyond. And MDC reached a App Usage whole new audience through this venue. In fact, 50 percent of In FY20, MDC’s MO Hunting app proved to be the most attendees were first-time participants in MDC programs. popular method for checking in harvested deer and turkey. Hunters used the app to check in 167,662 deer and turkey MoNASP State Tournament Canceled (138,854 deer, 28,808 turkey). The app accounted for With an increasing number of schools closing throughout 51 percent of checked harvests, while the phone checks Missouri due to COVID-19, MDC and the Missouri Conser- accounted for 37 percent, and the remaining 12 percent were vation Heritage Foundation canceled the annual Missouri completed online. Hunters used their mobile devices to buy National Archery in the Schools tournament. Scheduled 994,274 permits in FY20, an increase of 242,196 from FY19, for March 19-21, 2020, at the Branson Convention Center for a total of $13.3 million sold via mobile devices. in Branson, the event was expected to attract thousands of Get the free MO Hunting app for Android or iPhone student archers and their families. platforms at short.mdc.mo.gov/Zi2.
Telechecking Harvested Turkey and Deer: By Method
80%
60% Mobile
Phone 40% Web
20%
0% % of Total Number of Records Number % of Total 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
22 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 DAVID STONNER Autorenewal at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZfF Autorenewal more Permit about Learn feature. Your Account” “Manage the using or by purchase permit online an during buypermits at at champions current out the —check champion next the be can Missouri to native tree Any wide. feet 80 that’s spread crown a and feet of 22 circumference atrunk has champion oak red southern new The hickory. sand a67-foot-tall to tall feet 96 standing sycamore American an from range giants year’s This champions. calculate to circumference trunk and spread, crown height, the We big? is measure How big list. on the 100 species over with state, the in trees known largest the tracks program tree champion MDC’s year. this champions as certified being trees new seven in resulted trees biggest Missouri’s The forhunt Missouri’s Champion Trees 2018. 1, on July building of the ownership full took MDC and facility out of the pulling it was announced 2017, November In Audubon’sunder management. Audubon of Joplin City the and MDC, Society, Audubon National the of venture a joint as operated facility Center,& Audubon the building. the surround that acres 33 the and on classroom facility’s the in staff interpretive by 6, 2019. on Sept. house open an with re-opening facility’s the celebrated Joplin, Drive, Riviera (CEC), Center 201 W. Education Conservation Creek Shoal Opens Center Education Conservation Shoal Creek year. each visitors million 2.5 approximately hosts park The species. 200 documented over boasting Area, Bird Important an Garden Bird Tower Wild Gaddy Park’s Grove designated has Society Audubon The National varieties. 300 of some features park The city. trees 7,000 the in park largest second parks. City Louis St. in other offers MDC on what expanded Park in Grove Tower programs educational The communities. urban to programing educational outdoor-based and more nature bring to Tower Louis St. in Park Grove with partnered MDC Tower Grove Partnership Autorenewal. Permit using FY20 in renewed it. need they when permit a valid have always they so year or permit season next of the start the to prior permits their renew automatically to buyers permit online allows Autorenewal service. Autorenewal Permit online MDC’s through more convenient and easier is permits trapping and fishing, hunting, Missouri Renewing PermitAutomatic Renewal short.mdc.mo.gov/Z4i Originally opened in 2007 as Wildcat Glades Conservation Conservation Glades Wildcat 2007 as in opened Originally taught of programs variety a visitors offers CEC Creek Shoal Tower the is Park Grove 289-acre the 1868, in Established at Autorenewal in enroll can buyers Permit $670,000, at nearly valued were 24,200 permits, More than . . mdc.mo.gov/ tion about MDC shooting ranges, visit visit ranges, shooting MDC about tion area. excavated an in is range The targets. the behind be will berm earthen tall A 20-foot berms. side and backstops, enhanced line, firing acovered include features Safety lanes. 100-yard two and lanes, 50-yard three lanes, 25-yard four has range The practice. only. special-use as designated now be will that area on the 9, range older on Oct. 2019. an County It Johnson replaced in Area Conservation Memorial Perry Martha and Ralph at the range shooting target for anew opening agrand hosted MDC County Johnson in New Range Opens MDC mo.gov/Z4f water. clear shallow, in effective most is and activity a nighttime primarily It is line. and ahook with them catching than rather or gig, survey. online an 15,15, 2019–Feb. Sept. from2020. ran season The days. 15 by season gigging 2019–2020 the fish extended MDC Extended Season Gigging Fish The range is located north of Knob Noster. informa Forof more north is located range The target rifle and pistol both accommodates range new The visit gigging, on fish For more information spear, a long forklike using fish spearing involves Gigging through received feedback on public based was decision The . People venture outat night, using a lightandforklike spear, to gig fishonMissouriwaters. short.mdc.mo.gov/ZZF mdc.mo.gov short.mdc.
23 - . 24 disease threats if they over populate an area. an populate over they if threats disease heightened face and sources food over-browse can Deer Missourians. by valued highly species for awildlife balance state’s the into economy. dollars abillion pumping and 300,000 almost deer harvesting annually, go afield hunters deer million Today, ahalf almost management. and research science-based with state the in deer of restoring job the MDC gave commission 1937. in hunting deer policy-setting The closed Commission Conservation Missouri formed newly and voter-approved the until Ozarks the in herds small to dwindled had populations Deer excesses. pioneer-era from habitats supporting its and acreature restore to Missourians by support and awareness But it conservation took areas. state’s the natural shape help that species akeystone are The herbivores hunting. deer of white-tailed anniversary 75th of 2019 —the fall the in milestone amajor reached Missouri Missouri’s Tradition Modern Hunting of 75th Anniversary Celebrates MDC mdc.mo.gov/xplor visit issues, previous or view 200,000 To subscribers. subscribe more than has magazine nature year. The per $8 are subscriptions out-of-country and year per $5 are subscriptions Out-of-state residents. Missouri to free is and Missouri wildlife. of illustrations photos and amazing featuring while all of year, time any at nature discover to places great and do to things fun suggests and facts, animal strange includes conservation, about readers young teaches magazine The nature. discover and get outside to kids encouraging by conservationists 2020. in circulation Xplor TurnsXplor 10 park. trout or stream trout Ozark an to don’t drive to have they so unique fishing opportunity. another anglers trout giving celebration, anniversary 50th of the part as UFP Louis St. —in trout rainbow lunker large extra- — and trout of brown stocking a ninth added MDC lakes. UFP select in winter the during trout rainbow pursuing include opportunities these stockings, catfish regular the Besides 1972. in City Kansas to It expanded citizens. area Louis for St. fishing close-to-home providing program robust and expanded an to experiment alimited from grown has 2019. in 1969, (UFP) Since UFP Program Fishing Urban Louis St. of the anniversary 50th the celebrated MDC Urban Fishing Program Turns 50
Deer hunters also help MDC maintain an ecological ecological an maintain MDC help also hunters Deer Xplor people, the to fish to bring is the program of The goal season, for the stockings eight normal the to addition In Missouri Conservationist Missouri , MDC’s kids’ magazine, celebrated 10 years of 10 years celebrated magazine, kids’ , MDC’s is published bi-monthly bi-monthly published is . Xplor
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January 2021January fosters the next generation of generation next the fosters
trout fishing areas, to go areas, fishing trout mdc.mo.gov/troutslam apin. and acertificate received Anglers caught. were trout the which in areas nine of the how many upon gold —depending and streams. trout blue-ribbon nine MDC’s of five at least in atrout catch who honors anglers streams. trout blue-ribbon nine Missouri’s from TroutSlam” “Blue-Ribbon a by pursuing skills fishing their test to anglers encouraged Trout and MDC Unlimited Trout Ribbon Blue Slam at at podcasts. favorite your to listen you or wherever Spotify, on iTunes, available is Boost Nature production. in are seasons additional and October in dropped two Season times. nature. with miliar unfa be may who or someone outdoorsperson a seasoned they’re whether — nature from benefit can everyone that ways highlights and or partner, expert MDC an features episode Each wildlife. Missouri native and recreation, outdoor health, and nature as such topics explores Pritchard, percent. 50 as much as by skills problem-solving creative and spans attention increasing including levels, stress ease may parks urban and backyards, areas, conservation nature, in time spending For example, depression. lower help and anxiety, and stress decrease help to proven also has outside Being health. physical overall in increase an to of us. on each has outdoors the impact positive the on afocus with Boost, Nature podcast, anew launched MDC Launches Podcast Boost Nature mdc.mo.gov/natureboost For more information on the Blue-Ribbon Trout Slam, visit visit Trout Slam, Blue-Ribbon on the For more information silver, — bronze, levels three into divided was slam The in 2020, started which Slam, Trout Blue-Ribbon The Subscribe and get your own Nature Boost today! Learn more more Learn today! Boost Nature own get your and Subscribe downloaded was 7,000 Boost of Nature season first The Jill Coordinator Services News MDC host, podcast’s The linked is outdoors time spending that shown has Research short.mdc.mo.gov/ZmT . To learn more about Missouri’s more. To Missouri’s about learn and youtu.be/w1bnKTrqzvg and . - .
TROUT: DAVID STONNER; SUNSET JIM RATHERT MDC Maintains Public Trust We want you to be confident the finances dedicated to Missouri conservation are used wisely, and that decisions concerning Missouri’s fish, forests, and wildlife are guided by the best available science.
The sun sets over the Missouri River on a warm summer day.
Fishing Program Receives Governor’s Award for Innovation MDC staff at Roaring River Fish Hatchery near Cassville were given the Governor’s Award for Quality and Productivity in the Innovation category in January 2020 for a unique fishing initiative called the First Hole Program. Participants are taught fishing basics at the first of 33 Roaring River staff started the First Hole Program to give fishing holes that comprise Roaring River State Park’s trout veterans, children, the elderly, and those with disabilities a fishing area. The First Hole Program has reached more than chance to discover nature through fishing. Staff wanted to 4,000 people annually. Participants as far away as Kansas City, provide an opportunity for those who don’t typically fish the St. Louis, and Springfield travel to Cassville to wet a line and chance to do so. Roaring River is the only facility in Missouri discover the joy of trout fishing. For more information on the to offer such a program. program, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/ZWa.
mdc.mo.gov 25 MDC’s Historic Reorganization In 2019, the department began implementation of a new organizational model — defined as systems, structure, and culture — to best position ourselves to accomplish our strategic plan. The new model focuses on six themes: unified strategic priorities, an integrated approach to natural resource management, regional empowerment and accountability, centralized standards guiding regional implementation, enhanced focus on continuous improvement, and greater customer focus. A new organizational structure, as of July 1, 2020, integrated the fisheries, forestry, and wildlife disci- plines at both central office and the field level to reflect our tradition of innovation and leadership in natural resource management. A new regional administrator Wah’ Kon-Tah Prairie CA role was designed to enhance local decision making and community partnerships in our eight regions. Other new focal areas in the structure include positions New Tract at Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie focused on the relevancy of conservation to broad audi- MDC added a 320-acre grassland tract to Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie ences, recreational use, planning, citizen engagement, CA in St. Clair County. This filled a gap between existing area hunter/angler recruitment, wetland/aquatic systems, tracts and provided the opportunity to manage contiguous and customer experience. native grassland on the northern boundary. Purchase of the new tract was made possible with dona- Conservation Partner Meeting tions from the late Harry and Lina Berrier. The Berriers, of MDC hosted its third annual Missouri Conservation Columbia, for many years donated portions of proceeds from Partners Roundtable in Columbia in October 2019. their Show-Me Bar-B-Q sauce business towards prairie preser- This event brought together more than 300 conserva- vation and native grassland management. tion partners, college students, and MDC staff with a MDC manages Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie CA for native prairie purpose of establishing and strengthening new and plant and wildlife species in partnership with area cattle existing partnerships through information sharing ranchers who graze livestock on selected acres. For more infor- and listening. Twelve concurrent sessions were held on mation, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Zwd. topics that fit the conference theme Healthy Lands and Waters, Healthy People, and Healthy Partnerships. The event concluded with a question and answer session with MDC leadership.
Black Bear Management MDC accepted informal public comments on a proposed black bear hunting season through June 5, 2020, and official public comments through the Secretary of State’s Office in October and November 2020. If approved by the Missouri Conservation Commission, the limited and highly regulated hunting season could occur as soon as the fall of 2021. Over the last 50 years, bear numbers in the Missouri Ozarks have increased significantly, and today Missouri is home to between 540–840 black bears. Bear numbers are increasing each year and the bear range in the state is expanding. Learn more about Missouri’s black-bear population, MDC bear research, how to “Be Bear Aware,” and the potential black bear hunting season through this brief video at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZbT.
26 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 mation, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Zwd visit mation, For more infor acres. on selected livestock graze who ranchers cattle area with partnership in species wildlife and plant management. grassland native and vation preser prairie towards business sauce Bar-B-Q Show-Me their from of proceeds portions donated years for many Columbia, of Berriers, The Berrier. Lina and Harry late the from tions boundary. northern the on grassland native contiguous manage to opportunity the provided and tracts area existing between gap a filled County. This Clair St. in CA Prairie Wah’Kon-Tah to tract grassland a 320-acre added MDC New Tract Wah’Kon-Tah at Prairie MDC manages Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie CA for native prairie prairie for native CA Prairie Wah’Kon-Tah manages MDC dona with possible made was tract new of the Purchase . - - -
NOPPADOL PAOTHONG graduate of Jefferson City High School and 1972 graduate of the the of graduate and 1972 School High City of Jefferson graduate of on Fame Feb. 26, 2020. Hall Sports Missouri the into inducted were Skalicky Francis Specialist Media MDC and McGeehan Chip Commissioner Conservation Missouri Former TwoInduct MDC’s of Own Fame of Hall Sports Missouri management. wildlife and forest, fish, and firearms, received training in investigations, criminal defensive tactics, also Agents certification. CPR and responder aid/first first and programs, educational conducting and communications studies, legal in courses included Training classroom. out of the and in instruction intense receiving while City Jefferson in Academy Webster. Rachel and Walker, Alexander Surtin, Griffin Phillips, Travis Otterstein, Dirk Miller, Hibler, Drew Christine Eichler, Haeley Easton, Mathew Kyle Dick, Bardot, Benjamin wildlife: and forest, fish, Missouri’s protecting and serving City. Jefferson in Center Nature Conservation 8 at Runge Oct. ceremony a graduation during Agent’s Oath theConservation of 2019took class agent The Academy. Training Agent 2019 Conservation MDC’s from tion gradua their upon agents conservation new 11 welcomed MDC WelcomesMDC 11 New Agents decisions. expenditure major and of Missouri Code of the regulations approving makers, policy MDC as serving director, MDC the appointing include responsibilities Their party. political same the from allowed are commissioners two No more than compensation. or other no salary with terms six-year serve Commissioners Senate. of the consent and advice the with governor the by appointed members 2003 2018. to from department of that director as He served Department. Recreation and Parks City Kansas the within ties capaci various in serving field, recreation and parks the in ence Rolla. near farm acattle operates on and lives Harrison Education. Dental for Center Advanced University’s at aprofessor Louis St. as serves also He Springfield. Group in Dental Parkcrest with tics of Moberly. Orscheln (Barry) William and Sikeston of Bedell Don Commissioners joined commissioners new two 2019. 1, July The expired terms whose of Columbia, Murphy andDavid City of Jefferson Bradford Marilynn Commissioners outgoing 2025. replaced in They expire that terms six-year Parson. Gov. by Mike appointments their following 2019, August in Commission Conservation Missouri to the City of Kansas McHenry Mark and of Rolla Harrison Dr. Steven welcomed Commission Conservation Missouri the and MDC Two Appointed New Commissioners McGeehan was inducted for his work in conservation. A 1968 A1968 conservation. in work for his inducted was McGeehan Patrol Highway the at living months six spent agents The in agents MDC the existing joined 179 agents 11 These of four consists Commission Conservation Missouri The of experi years 44 more than has McHenry Commissioner orthodon in specialist adental is Harrison Commissioner for appointed were McHenry and Harrison Commissioners , strategic planning, and budget development development budget and planning, , strategic Wildlife Wildlife - - - - several southwest Missouri newspapers. southwestseveral Missouri for practices conservation good and outdoors the promoting for the frequently He writes state. the in elsewhere coverage media with assists and 17-county for region the coverage media he coordinates role, that 1996. In since specialist media regional southwest MDC’s been has Skalicky University, State Missouri and School High of Bolivar A graduate writing. conservation and sports wife, Teresa. his with Marshfield in hunter, bow lives avid an McGeehan, Program. Schools the in Archery National Missouri and program Schools Nature Discover of MDC’s beginning the and population, bear black of Missouri’s resurgence the witnessed also commission on the tenure McGeehan’s Missouri. into of elk reintroduction the championed McGeehan Blunt, Gov. by Matt appointed being After 2005 2011. to from sioner commis MDC an as served McGeehan of Missouri, University section of Katy Trail State Park. State Trail of Katy section a straddles and overlook blufftop scenic a includes CA Bluffs opportunities. hunting and viewing wildlife excellent as well as species, wildlife resident and birds wintering and for migrating habitat year-round provide which fields, crop and marshes, emergent marshes, of moist-soil acres 1,100 of theflooding allow area’spools The shallow 17 wetlands. historical Missouri’s percent of 90 of nearly the loss offset in February. anniversary 25th its celebrated CA Bluffs Eagle 25 Celebrates Years Bluffs Eagle
Eagle Bluffs CA Skalicky, of Springfield, was inducted for his career in career his for inducted was of Springfield, Skalicky, A featured stop on the Great Missouri Birding Trail, Eagle Eagle Trail, Birding Great Missouri on the stop A featured help to 4,431-acre area this developed and purchased MDC Missouri Conservationist Missouri , and pens columns columns pens , and mdc.mo.gov
27 - Get
Outsidein Ways to connect JANUARY with nature Not All Leaves Fall Though most trees are without leaves this time of year, some species, such as young sugar maples, retain their dead, dried leaves throughout the winter. It’s easy to see them as you hike through the winter woods. This phenomenon is called marcescence (mar-SESS- ence), and it could help young trees in several ways. • The retained leaves might break the force of winds and protect the tree from the bitterest cold. • They might collect rain and snow and deposit it at the roots, increasing the moisture available to the tree. • Dropping leaves in spring instead of fall might cause the nutrient-laden mulch to fall at the base of the trees when it benefits the tree the most. • The dry, bitter old leaves might deter deer from browsing on the otherwise tender branches and buds. How many leaved trees can you find?
Cave Tour If you miss seeing herps during the heart of winter, find a cave to explore. There you might come across a cave salamander or a pickerel frog. Since they are underground, caves are always warmer than the air temperature outside, so herps fare better. But be sure and just look. Don’t disturb these creatures in their winter domicile.
Trumpeter Deer swans Natural Events Eastern begin are rare to See This Month gartersnakes shedding visitors at can be seen their Here’s what’s going on marshes, during a antlers in in the natural world. lakes, and mild winter. January. rivers.
28 Missouri Conservationist | January 2021 Coffee in the Woods Did you know coffee pods grow in Missouri woods? These aren’t the kind you brew, though at one time, Native Americans did. With the trees bare, Kentucky coffee trees (Gymnocladus dioicus) are easy to spot with their large, leathery-looking, unopened seed pods dangling from their branches or littering the forest floor just below.
Bundle Up Don’t let the cold — and possible snow —
keep you indoors. call before you cut There is lots to discover in nature this time of year, but take a lesson from the adult opossum REASONS TO CALL and stay bundled BEFORE YOU CUT up! Adult opossums, 5 particularly males, often end up with Learn if harvesting is right damaged ears and tail tips due to freezing. Always check for you and your woods the weather before you venture out and be prepared with plenty of layers. Harvest the proper trees to ensure a healthy forest Find a trained logger for the job Maximize timber sale income Oysters in the Woods and save $$$ on taxes As you are keeping that New Year’s resolution to get out and exercise more, why not do a little gathering while Ensure your overall satisfaction you’re at it. Oyster mushrooms appear year-round, with the timber harvest including in wintertime, and are considered a choice edible. Look for these whitish-gray or tan-capped mushrooms in Request a free clusters on trunks, logs, and stumps of deciduous trees. Remember, only eat mushrooms you know are safe. informational packet To be sure, consult A Guide to Missouri’s Edible and Poisonous about working with a Mushrooms at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZYM. professional forester to take care of your woods. callb4ucut.com 877–564–7483 Places to Go 30 Ozark landscape.” rolling, but it’son, adramatic, you’re trail on what depends “It he said. views,” dramatic pretty said. he views, great some get also They trails. these from gets a person turn around.” and distance goyou a short if not bad so are that sections are “Now, there route,” said. Short full the take you if terrain rough fairly —are of them all said. he ties, abili their to suited route that’s a plan should visitors so lenging, said. Short doing,” out be there to going are people what that’s good, is weather the if riding, bike Short. Stephen SF&WA Manager Busiek said goals, fitness their achieve how they in a choice users giving trails, multi-use of SF&WAmiles iek 18 offers County, Bus Christian in acres treadmill. a from seen be can’t that views and options, of fitness variety a gyms, crowded to alternative (SF&WA) an Area offer Wildlife Forest State and at Busiek trails Year’sthe get fit, to resolution New that keep to struggling _ Archer Larry by the fit naturalGetting way Area Wildlife and Forest Busiek State SOUTHWEST REGION SOUTHWEST
“The trails we have offer some some offer have we trails “The that workout isn’tA good all say — I would of them “Most chal are trails of the Most riding, horseback “Hiking, 2,700 over on just Located For those who are already already are who For those Missouri Conservationist Missouri
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January 2021January - - - views even better.” so that makes the the trees will be bare, the“In wintertime, — Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Wildlife and Forest State Busiek Area Manager Stephen Short
NOPPADOL PAOTHONG BUSIEK STATE FOREST AND WILDLIFE AREA consists of 2,701 acres in Christian County. From Springfield, take Highway 65 south 18 miles.
36.8635, -93.2268 short.mdc.mo.gov/ZLu 417-895-6880
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU VISIT
Birdwatching Included in the Great Missouri Birding Trail (short.mdc.mo.gov/ZLb). The eBird list of birds recorded at Busiek SF&WA is available at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZLL.
Camping Individual campsites. Requires permit.
Hiking Multi-use trails (hiking, biking, equestrian), totaling 18 miles.
Hunting Deer and turkey Deer and turkey regulations are subject to annual changes. Please refer to the Spring Turkey or Fall Deer and Turkey booklets for current regulations. Also squirrel
Shooting Range Rifle or pistol. 25-, 50-, and 100-yard lanes. Unstaffed.
DISCOVER MO OUTDOORS Users can quickly and easily find Woods Fork Creek outdoor activities close to home, work, (main and inset) enters Busiek SF&WA from the or even while traveling with our free north and winds its way mobile app, MO Outdoors. Available through the eastern in Android or iPhone platforms at portion of the area. mdc.mo.gov/mooutdoors.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN YOU VISIT Golden-crowned Wild turkey White-tailed deer Carolina chickadee kinglet mdc.mo.gov 31 T 32 G Wild and is the semicircular cap to turkey tail easy to recognize. Trametes versicolor Tail Turkey mushroom variety. These spoon-shaped. The bands of The spoon-shaped. Edible Status colors make on the cap the and are thinclusters leathery The layered. often clusters, or deciduous trees in groups, rows, grow on mushrooms edible
Missouri Conservationist Missouri ui Cap width: 1 width: Cap Size tails to chase turkey still are there urkey season may be be may season urkey over in Missouri, but d – 4 inches 4
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False turkey tail those nutrients to the soil. the to nutrients those returning and of made is wood materials tough the down breaking in role important an plays It wood. decaying on live that species fungus many the of one is This log the from emerges that mushroom the develops mycelium the reproduce, to ready When wood. dead decomposes and digests (mycelium) that cells of network awhitish as logs rotting within lives species This released to begin newreleased mycelia elsewhere. Instructure. polypores, spores are produced in the pores on the underside and are ECOSYSTEM CONNECTIONS ECOSYSTEM LIFE CYCLE Discover more nature at mdc.mo.gov/field-guide at nature more Discover — this is the reproductive this is the reproductive short.mdc.mo.gov/ZYM and Poisonous Mushrooms Edible Missouri’s to A Guide Forany help, mushroom. consult consuming before identification your of certain be purposes, various for years of thousands for mushrooms have eaten betulina multicolor gill polypore ( ostrea (Stereum tail lookalikes lookalikes two have tails Turkey YouDid Know? ). Though people — the false turkey turkey false the ) and the the ) and Lenzites . at at
MAIN: DAVID STONNER; INSET: JIM RATHERT or online at booklets are available from local permit vendors Current hunting, trapping, and fishing regulation MissouriCode of methods, and restrictions, consult the For complete information about seasons, limits, Most streams south of the Missouri River: Missouri the of south streams Most year all Open Nov. 15, 2020 Rabbits Nov. 15, 2020 Muskrats Otters, Nov. 15, 2020 Furbearers Other Nov. 15, 2020 Beaver, Nutria Nov. 13, 2020 Catch-and-Release: Trout Parks 15, 2020 Sept. midnight: to sunrise Waters, Impounded and Streams Nongame Fish Gigging non and waters Impounded Black Bass Î Î
Catch-and-Release: Catch-and-Keep: Open all year all Open 23, 2020 May Outdoor Calendar Outdoor short.mdc.mo.gov/ZZf TRAPPING at FISHING – – – – – – short.mdc.mo.gov/Zib Jan. 31,Jan. 2021 31,Jan. 2021 Feb. 20, 2021 Feb. 31,March 2021 Feb. 8, 2021 8, Feb. Feb. 15,Feb. 2021 –
Feb. 28, 2021 28, Feb.
- Ozark streams: streams: Ozark . Wildlife Wildlife . MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
Firearms: Nov. 25, 2020 Nov. 1, 2020 Regular: Pheasant Nov. 15, 2020 Furbearers Other Archery: Deer Nov. 1, 2020 Crow year all Open season, and firearmsdeer season. turkey spring April, during apply Restrictions Coyote in Android or iPhone platforms at short.mdc.mo.gov/Zi2 at platforms iPhone or Android in both Get catch. your ID and fish, to places great find permits, buy you lets Fishing MO harvest. your Telecheck and them, notch electronically permits, buy to easy it makes Hunting MO Free MOHuntingandFishing Apps Î
Alternative Methods Portion: Portion: Methods Alternative Dec. 26, 2020 Dec.
– – – – Jan. 15,Jan. 2021 March 3, 2021 3, March Jan. 31,Jan. 2021 Jan. 15,Jan. 2021 – Jan. 5, 2021 Jan. HUNTING
Regular: Quail Nov. 1, 2020 or visit short.mdc.mo.gov/ZZx visit or Digest Hunting the See Waterfowl Nov. 25, 2020 Archery: Turkey 23, 2020 May Squirrel 1, 2020 Oct. Rabbit for more information. Migratory Bird and Waterfowl and Bird Waterfowl Migratory
– – – Feb. 15,Feb. 2021 – Jan. 15,Jan. 2021 Feb. 15,Feb. 2021 Jan. 15,Jan. 2021 .
ILLUSTRATION: MARK RAITHEL Follow us on Instagram @moconservation
Just as the sun rises over Mineral Hills Conservation Area to begin the day anew, it’s also the dawn of a brand-new year. Whatever this year holds, we hope you find time for nature. There is always something to discover.
by David Stonner
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