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CONSERVATION FEDERATION

The Voice for Missouri Outdoors SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 - VOL 87 | NO. 5

Join the Founders Circle Preserve Missouri’s Conservation Legacy

Together, we can help protect Missouri’s natural resources and ensure a healthy future for future generations.

For more than 90 years, the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) has served as The Voice for Missouri Outdoors. Join in our efforts to secure our stronghold as advocates for our state’s wildlife and natural resources by becoming a dedicated member of our Founders Circle. Your contribution plays an influential role in preserving Missouri’s rich outdoor legacy. Each year, earnings from the endowment will be used to support CFM’s education and advocacy efforts. Special recognition will be given to those who reach each level of giving. Additionally, memberships will be recognized at our annual Convention.

FOUNDERS CIRCLE MEMBERS DIAMOND — $75,000 or more McGeehan Family—2025 GOLD — $35,000 to $74,999 Abe Phillips—2024 SILVER — $10,000 to $34,999 Anonymous—2025 Tanya Duvall-Haubein—2025 William R. Stork, Jr.—2026 David Urich—2023

BRONZE — $5,000 to $9,999 Anonymous—2025 Anonymous—2025 Liz Cook—2023 Gene Gardner—2023 Jim Hock—2026 Bill McCully—2025 Zach Morris—2022 Bruce Sassmann—2025 Jan Sassmann—2026

Mike Schallon—2023 Mossie Schallon—2025 Jennifer Urich—2025 Ray Wagner—2023 Ginny Wallace - 2026 Randy Washburn—2025 Nicole Wood—2025 Charlie Wormek—2023 David Young—2025

Will your name be next? Join Missouri's conservation leaders and leave your mark for generations to come. For more information, contact the office at (573) 634-2322 or info@confedmo.org

LEARN MORE OR MAKE A GIFT TODAY! Scan the QR code or visit confedmo.org

Executive Director’s Message

Parks, Soils and Water Tax is Renewed for Another 10 Years

n August 4, Missourians once again demonstrated something that has defined our state for generations: a deep commitment to the land, the water, and our state parks that make Missouri such a special place to call home. 82.288% of Missourians voted YES on Amendment 1! That means more than 4 out of 5 Missouri voters chose to renew the Parks, Soils, and Water Sales Tax for another ten years. That vote is an investment in clean water, healthy soil, thriving farms, abundant wildlife, and the state parks that millions of families enjoy every year. It was one of the greatest honors of my career to serve as co-chair of this campaign alongside Missouri Farm Bureau and all of our outstanding partners. Missouri is the ShowMe State for a reason, and together we witnessed firsthand what can happen when conservation organizations, farmers, businesses, hunters, anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday Missourians come together around a common purpose. While Election Day was the finish line for this campaign, the real story was the countless people who worked behind the scenes for months to make this victory possible. Thank you to everyone who put a yard sign in their front yard or around their community. Thank you to those who marched in parades, attended community events, handed out literature, knocked on doors, put up yard signs, made phone calls, shared social media posts, and simply talked with neighbors and friends about why this tax matters. Those conversations mattered more than you know. I am glad that we can say we did everything we could to protect this tax and Missouri's outdoor and natural resource legacy. Looking back, those miles traveled and those conversations shared are memories I will always treasure. Visiting with folks along the way, and the new friends we discovered who love their parks, was also a joy. One thing is loud and clear, Missourians are willing to tax ourselves for these great resources. I also want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to our Board of Directors, campaign committee, our volunteers, affiliate organizations, and every individual and organization that made a financial contribution to this effort. Campaigns like this are powered by people who are willing to invest their time, talent, and resources because they believe in something bigger than themselves. Your generosity and dedication made an incredible difference, and Missouri will benefit from your commitment for years to come.

Shortly after the passage of Amendment 1 was announced, Kayden Guymon, Tyler Schwartze, Jake Buxton and Kurt Schaefer stand in front of a Yes on 1 campaign sign. (Photo: CFM)

For more than 40 years, this dedicated funding source has helped ensure that Missouri remains one of the nation's conservation leaders. Because of your support, that legacy will continue for another decade, providing benefits that will reach every corner of our state. To everyone who volunteered, donated, encouraged others to vote, or simply cast a ballot in support of Amendment 1, please accept my sincere gratitude. This victory belongs to all of us, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to have worked beside you. Your percentage is in that 82.288% somewhere. When we all do a little, big things add up to make this record-breaking number. As I was out pulling signs in the drizzle the morning after the election, it made me contemplate what it would take to get 100% approval in Missouri. We know we live in the greatest state for outdoor resources in the nation, so how do we reach that other 17.712%? I don't have the answer at this moment, and some might think that's an unrealistic thought, but is it? I do know that when we work together as we did in this election, we are truly unstoppable, and great things happen. Until we do it all again in ten years, thank you for believing in Missouri's outdoors, and thank you for saying YES on Amendment 1. Yours in Conservation, Tyler Schwartze CFM Executive Director, Editor SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

CONTENTS

Conservation Federation Sep./Oct. 2026 - V87 No. 5

Features

STAFF Tyler Schwartze - Executive Director, Editor Micaela Haymaker - Director of Operations Vacant - Membership Manager Trisha Ely - Development & Events Coordinator Taylor Hurley - Program & Comms Coordinator Joan VanderFeltz - Administrative Assistant Bill White - Grasslands Coordinator Emma Robinett - Creative Director

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bears in the Woods

Missouri Women in Natural Resources

The Future Shines Bright Along the Katy Trail

Dick Wood Honored by the Archery Hall of Fame

A Missouri Gem, an Arkansas Jewel

Federal Cuts Threaten Natural Resource Conservation

Final Family Vacation

Frogging in the Old Days

The Adventures of Frank & Bert: Bassin' Bert

Nature Shows

The Cost of a Clear View

Wild About Wellness: Lions Mane

The Giant in the Room

A Katy Trail Update: Interns on the Trail

Departments 3 8 12 14

Executive Director's Message President's Message Life Members Affiliate Spotlight CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Executive Committee: Ginny Wallace, President Kyle Carroll, President-Elect Ethan Duke, Secretary Ryan Verkamp, Treasurer

Dana Ripper Bill Kirgan Mike Schallon Katie Marsh Jean Nock Steve Jones Zach Morris Michael Meredith Zack Pollock

Board Members: Richard Ash Mossie Schallon Gary Van De Velde Katherine Brookshire Leanne Tippett-Mosby Adam Sapp Emily Schrader John Hickey Jake Swafford Jane Williams Cade Schmitz Erin Reinhart Allan Roach Cary Creach

Dr. Marion Pierson Bill McCully Jennifer Battson-Warren David Urich Rob Hunt April Hoffman Eric Rahm Jeff Meshach Kathie Brennan Kendra Varns Wallis Pam Bollinger Laurie Wilson Renee Hahne Lesli Moylan Tessa Poolman

ABOUT THE MAGAZINE

Highlights 17 20 36 64

Miles for Missouri Route 66 & Missouri State Parks Livingston County Farm Whiskey & Wildlife

Conservation Federation (ISSN 1082-8591), Copyright 1938, is published 6 times a year in January, March, May, July, September, and November by the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM), 728 West Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Of each member’s dues, $10 shall be for a year’s subscription to Conservation Federation. Call (573) 634-2322 to become a member. Periodicals Postage paid at Jefferson City, MO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Conservation Federation 728 West Main Jefferson City, MO 65101

FRONT COVER Matt Miles captured this image of a subadult black bear in Webster County, Missouri using a Nikon D500 camera, with 300/2.8 lens paired with 1.4x teleconverter.

Member News

Thank you to all of our Business Partners. Platinum

Gold Doolittle Trailer G3 Boats

Redneck Blinds Roeslein Alternative Energy, LLC

Silver Forrest Keeling Nursery Lilley’s Landing Resort & Marina Missouri Wildflowers Nursery

Mitico Pure Air Natives Quaker Windows

Starline, Inc. St. James Winery

Drury Hotels HMI Fireplace Shop Hodgdon Powder Company, Inc. MidwayUSA Missouri Wine & Grape Board

NE Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. NW Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. Ozark Bait and Tackle Woods Smoked Meats

Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association FCS Financial Gascosage Electric Cooperative General Printing Service GREDELL Engineering Resources, Inc. Heartland Seed of Missouri LLC Hulett Heating & Air Conditioning Independent Stave Joe Machens Ford Lewis County Rural Electric Coop.

Marble Graphics II LLC Midwest Mailing Services Missouri Native Stewardship Services ModernLitho Jefferson City Moneta Group On Time Toner and Supplies LLC Peapod Learning Center LLC Truman’s Bar & Grill United Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Bronze Association of Missouri Electric Coop. Black Widow Custom Bows, Inc. Brockmeier Financial Services Burgers’ Smokehouse Central Electric Power Cooperative

Iron AJ's Automotive & Air Conditioning Bass Pro Shops (Independence) Bee Rock Outdoor Adventures Best Shot Insurance Big Bear Butcher Shop Boone Electric Cooperative Cap America Central Bank Custom Promotional Branding Dickerson Park Zoo

Your business can benefit by supporting conservation. For all sponsorship opportunities, call (573) 634-2322.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story

Bears in the Woods

hen the woods put on their fall colors in a few weeks, some Missouri hunters will be pausing their efforts to put venison in the freezer with their bows and turn their attention to Black bears. It still sounds odd to say, “Missouri bear season,” but that’s exactly what will take place in all counties south of the Missouri River from October 17th-30th. There will be a different sort of anticipation in the air for those who drew permits when they head to the woods. They will be hunting bears in Missouri. The Conservation Commission voted this year to increase both the number of black bears that may be harvested per season and the number of permits issued for the 2026 season. The move follows four years of harvest totals that have remained well below season quotas. The season quota is now set at 60, up from 40, and 2000 permits were issued, up from the 600 available during each of the first four seasons. Even with the increase in the quota, Missouri’s bear population will continue to grow. Bear numbers in good habitat increase 8-9% each year. With a population of a thousand or so bears, Missouri’s framework still allows for population growth. Five Octobers ago, I was one of the lucky Missouri hunters to draw one of six hundred bear tags for Missouri’s first bear season in modern times. I will always remember that first morning. Before dawn on opening day, I was easing through the woods towards a ridge that a friend had given me directions to late the afternoon before. The Mark Twain National Forest sprawled over the hills and hollers around me. My .54 caliber flintlock was in my right hand. I had greased the patch that surrounded lead bullet in the barrel with bear grease before ramming them into place with my ramrod. “Just like Daniel Boone had done before me.” I thought to myself. I cinched my backpack tight to my chest as I parted low hanging branches with my free hand. It was more dark than light, but I could see enough without a headlamp to pick my way through the woods. Coyotes yipped at the coming dawn. I tried to keep my bearings as I got deeper into the forest. I took in the smells, and the cool fall air. It was good to be there in those hills with a bear tag in my pocket.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Feature Story I saw a lot of country, camped under the stars, cooked over a fire, and slept soundly under a starry fall sky during my bear hunt. I did not harvest a bear. I did not even see a bear, but the fact that they were now roaming our state in sufficient numbers to have a bear season was a tribute to the bear and modern conservation practices. For now, Missouri’s bear season remains tightly regulated. Bear hunters in Missouri are required to call 800-668-4045 to determine the daily season quota/ closure status prior to hunting each day. In addition, if the harvest has reached or exceeded 80 percent of the harvest quota, the director of the Conservation Department may close hunting within that Black Bear Management Zone on the following day. Once the harvest quota is met or the Director closes the season for the BMZ in which you are hunting, the season is over, and you may not harvest a black bear. Black bears that have taken refuge in a den may not be harvested or harassed. Only lone black bears may be harvested. You may not harvest a bear that is with one or more other bears, including female bears with cubs. Black bears typically live in heavily wooded areas. In winter bears den in hollow trees, caves, excavated hollows in the ground, brush piles, or other natural shelters. In summer they sleep in trees or on the ground. When the acorns begin to drop, they prefer them to the exclusion of almost everything else. By the time the Missouri bear season opens, most bears have moved on from acorns and their where abouts are harder to predict. But they are out there, and now, every fall, a handful of hunters have the hunt of a lifetime, right here in Missouri. Black bears used to be abundant in the state but had become rare by 1850. By the early 1930’s they were thought to have been extirpated, meaning “completely removed” from the state. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, “In 1958, Arkansas began reintroducing bears into that state, and sightings in Missouri increased soon after. Starting in the early 2000s, bear numbers noticeably increased, and population study was started in 2010. The study revealed that Missouri's bear population at that time was around three hundred bears.

Also, genetic work from the study found that in southcentral Missouri (Webster and Douglas counties), a small remnant of that region's historical bear populations still existed, in addition to the bears that naturally expanded into Missouri from Arkansas, suggesting that bears had never been completely extirpated from the state.” Biologists continue to monitor Missouri’s growing bear population by tagging and radio collaring. Additionally winter den checks allow MDC to “assess the condition of the sow, adjust or change her radio collar, if necessary, determine how many cubs or yearlings are with her in the den, and mark any young that can be handled.” MDC Last March, I was fortunate enough to tag along on one of those den visits. After a short hike in, I finally had my hands on a wild Missouri black bear. I was told to keep the bear inside my jacket to keep him warm, which he seemed to appreciate. When it was his turn, I handed him back to the team that was measuring and weighing his two littermates. With any luck, all three of those bears are still out there roaming the back country and making those hunters who drew tags happy, along with everyone else who appreciates the comeback of one of Missouri’s grandest creatures. It is a neat thing to once again have bears in the woods. Kyle Carroll The Author keeps one cub warm while the other two are processed by the den visit team. (Photo: Courtesy of Tyler Schwartze)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

President's Message

Then and Now

hile I was working on a report of the March “Shaping the Future” session, I ran across the Federation’s constitution, adopted March 7, 1938. I thought it was worth sharing a comparison of what our founders said then, and what our members said in March. 1938 - To do any and all things deemed necessary or advisable to bring about the full fruition and purposes of the Constitutional Amendment adopted November 3, 1936, relating to wildlife; to restore, preserve, develop and increase the birds, fish, game, forestry, wild flowers, and all other wildlife resources of the State of Missouri, extending to and including all matters which in the judgment of the Board of Directors, or of the Body itself, through law may become of public use, benefit or enjoyment to the people of Missouri. 2026 - Participants in the Shaping the Future session strongly supported continued Federation leadership in monitoring legislation, coordinating with partners and affiliates, increasing public testimony, and protecting Missouri’s long-standing conservation institutions and funding structures. Participants also emphasized the importance of maintaining bipartisan credibility while continuing to advocate for science-based conservation policy. 1938 - To coordinate all agencies, societies, clubs and individuals which are or should be interested in the restoration, wise use, conservation and scientific management of wildlife and other natural resources into a permanent, unified, active agency for the purpose of securing adequate public recognition of the needs and values of wildlife resources and other natural resources. 2026 - With a network of over 100 affiliate organizations, participants identified collaboration as one of CFM’s greatest strengths and most important future opportunities. Many comments focused on the importance of coordinated approaches to complex conservation issues that cross organizational or geographic boundaries. 1938 - To develop, promote and support a comprehensive educational program based upon scientific study and technical research for the advancement, restoration, wise use, management and conservation of wildlife and other natural resources. And, to inform and educate the public through the dissemination of pertinent facts, scientific and research discoveries and information that may contribute to the solution of the problem involved in the restoration, wise use and conservation of wildlife and other natural resources.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

2026 - Participants emphasized the importance of education as a long-term conservation strategy. Suggestions included expanding school and youth programming, increasing public presentations and workshops, supporting citizen science initiatives, and developing more accessible educational materials related to habitat conservation, water quality, invasive species, pollinators, and wildlife health. 1938 - To stimulate a proper public attitude and appreciation regarding the use and management of all natural resources, enabling our people to appraise the esthetic value and importance of all resources. 2026 - Connect conservation efforts to local communities and visible, community-based action. Connect statewide conservation priorities to issues directly affecting individual communities, landowners, and families. Throughout the 90-plus years of our existence, the members of the Conservation Federation of Missouri have remained steadfast in our commitment to defending our natural resource agencies, advocating for science-based management, helping our fellow Missourians appreciate and value our natural resources, and ensuring that what we have today will endure for future generations. We are as passionate as ever. Thank you for all you do.

Ginny Wallace President, CFM

2026 Events Schedule 90 thAnnual Convention - Virtual - Feb. 24-26, March 2-4; In Person - March 6-8 Let your voice be heard at the Annual Convention. The event will include meetings, awards, auctions, and so much more. Held at the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark.

Conservation Day at the Capitol - March 31

Join conservationists from across Missouri on the radio for a day of celebrating and supporting conservation and natural resources. The broadcast will air from 6 am to 10 am on 96.7 FM or KCMQ.com.

CFM with the Springfield Cardinals - May 7

Step up to the plate with CFM this May at a Springfield Cardinals game — where conservation meets America’s favorite pastime!

Share The Harvest Golf Tournament - June 22

Tee off for a great cause at our golf tournament at Oak Hills Golf Center in Jefferson City to support Share the Harvest!

CFM Life Member & Founders Circle Event - June 27 CFM will be hosting its 5th annual life member only event.

Pull for Conservation: Central - August 8

Take your best shot at the 19th annual Central clay shoot at Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports.

Affiliate Summit - September 18

CFM affiliate organizations are invited to network and learn.

Miles for Missouri Outdoors - September 19

Enjoy a morning 5K run/walk and explore conservation booths from our affiliate partners at the river access.

Fall Online Auction - October 12-23

Enjoy a fun and interactive online auction with many great trips and prizes.

Whiskey & Wildlife Banquet: Kansas City - October 22

A classic CFM banquet enhanced with whiskey tastings and wild-game appetizers from around Missouri. Event dates are subject to change. Please visit www.confedmo.org or follow us on social media for the most up to date schedule.

Member News

CFM MISSION:

To ensure conservation of Missouri's wildlife and natural resources, and preservation of our state's rich outdoor legacy through advocacy, education and partnerships.

Why Did Jackson Byrd Become a CFM Life Member?

y love of nature started with my grandpa. Every so often, he’d bring me to a stretch of the James River I called “the creek.” My fondest childhood memories were spent on those rocky shores, catching minnows and frogs and just enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Ozarks. I didn't really get into conservation until the summer before my senior year of high school. It was almost a new beginning for me. I attended GLADE (Green Leadership Academy for Diverse Ecosystems), which was really the first time I had ever considered a job in conservation. After that, I went hiking every morning that summer, and for the first time in my life, I felt like I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I found myself always looking for new ways to get involved in conservation-related activities, which is when I joined the Conservation Leadership Corps (CLC). When I had the opportunity to become a CFM Life Member, it was a no-brainer for me. Being in CLC allowed me to see all the wonderful things CFM was doing for Missouri’s wildlife. So why wouldn’t I want to be a part of it?

Jackson with a female belted kingfisher while working at GLADE.

In Memory & Honor Mr. Hall Ariella Gomez Peter H. Raven Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ash C.W. “Dub” Hook Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ash

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Tom DeHaven Mr. and Mrs. John Risberg Mr. and Mrs. Bill Kirgan Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ash Mr. and Mrs. John Stegemann Mrs. Karen Sander Mrs. Susan Grissom Mr. and Mrs. Dan Jones Larry Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ash

Howard N. Fisher Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ash Mr. and Mrs. Mike Schallon Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Knipmeyer Mr. and Mrs. Terry Wells Mr. and Mrs. Glen Dieckmann Mr. and Mrs. Brian Cornelius Mr. and Mrs. John Mockridge Mr. and Mrs. Mark Zeikle Ms. Mona Zeikle Mr. and Mrs. Paul Zeikle Mr. and Mrs. John Berry Mr. and Mrs. Gene Specker Ms. Gloria Boehmer Mr. and Mrs. Dale Ritter Ms. Teri Ray Mr. and Mrs. Gregg Robison Mr. John Goedeke Mr. Norman Westmoreland

Member News

Business Spotlight: FCS Financial Financing the Future of Missouri’s Landscapes

nyone who has spent a crisp morning in a Missouri deer stand or watched the sun rise over a native prairie knows that healthy, thriving land doesn't just happen by accident. It takes dedication, hard work, and stewardship. It also takes a financial partner who sees the value in a standing tract of timber or a restored wetland just as clearly as a field of soybeans. That’s where FCS Financial comes in. While we are widely recognized as the state’s largest agricultural lender, we also share a deep appreciation for Missouri’s rich outdoor heritage and the diverse landscapes that make our state unique. We aren't a traditional, big-box commercial bank. Instead, we operate as a member-owned cooperative. Because our customers are also our owners, profits stay right here in Missouri. To date, FCS Financial has returned more than $365 million back to our member-owners through our cash patronage program—capital that often goes right back into improving local lands, soil health, and wildlife habitats. For Conservation Federation of Missouri members, FCS Financials’ expertise in rural and recreational property is a major asset. Whether you’re looking to purchase a premier hunting tract, invest in acreage for habitat restoration, or build a home out in the country, our local loan officers understand the nuances of rural land.

We don't just look at cookie-cutter loan programs; we understand the intrinsic and long-term value of the great outdoors. FCS Financial offers customized financing for land, equipment, and rural mortgages designed around the actual realities of managing rural property. Beyond the financial side, FCS Financial is deeply committed to the future of our state's natural resources, actively supporting youth organizations like 4-H and FFA to foster the next generation of land stewards. With a presence spanning 102 Missouri counties, FCS Financial is here to help you grow, protect, and enjoy our state’s diverse landscapes. To learn more about how we can help you, contact us at 1-800-444-3276 or visit us online at www.myfcsfinancial.com.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Member News

LIFE MEMBERS OF CFM Charles Abele * R. Philip Acuff * Duane Addleman * Nancy Addleman Tom Addleman Nancy Addleman * Michael Duane Addleman James Agnew Carol Albenesius Craig Alderman * Allan Appell Victor Arnold Bernie Arnold Richard Ash Judy Kay Ash Carolyn Auckley Debbie Audiffred Doug Audiffred Ken Babcock Bernie Bahr Michael Baker * James Baker Dane Balsman Timothy Barksdale Lynn Barnickol Jamie Barton Michael Bass Robert Bass Don Bedell Troy Beilsmith Cooper Bien Thomas Bell David F. Bender Rodger Benson Leonard Berkel Barbi Berrong Jim Blair John Blankenbeker Amy Bloomfield Tom Bloomfield Andy Blunt Jeff Blystone Kim Blystone Glenn Boettcher Arthur Booth * Dale Linda Bourg Stephen Bradford Marilynn Bradford Robin Brandenburg Mark Brandly Kathie Brennan Robert Brinkmann Kaley Brittain Michael Brizendine Virginia Brizendine

Lon Brockmeier Katherine Brookshire Donald R. Brown * Scott Brundage Bill Bryan Misty Bryan Alan Buchanan Connie Burkhardt Dan Burkhardt Charles Burwick Brandon Butler Jackson Byrd Randy Campbell Brian Canaday Mary Carey Dale Carpentier Joe Cater * Glenn Chambers Bryan Chilcutt Ed Clausen * Edward Clayton * Ron Coleman Denny Coleman Rhonda Coleman Liz Cook Bill Cooper Elizabeth Copeland Mark Corio * Bill Crawford Todd Crawford Andy Dalton DeeCee Darrow Brian Davidson Mike Dempsey Ryan Diener Joe Dillard Randy Doman Tim Donnelly Cheryl Donnelly Ron Douglas Chuck Drury * Charlie Drury Tom Drury Ethan Duke Mike Dunning William Eddleman Karen Edison John Enderle Theresa Enderle Joe Engeln Marlin Fiola Fred First * Mary Louise Fisher Howard Fisher Andrew Fleming Brian Fleming

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

* Charles Fleming David Fleming Howard Fleming Kailey Fleming Lori Fleming Matt Fleming Paula Fleming Sara Fleming X. Daniel Forte Bob Fry Manley Fuller Judge Gary M. Gaertner, Jr. David Galat Gene Gardner Matt Gaunt Jason Gibbs Timothy Gordon Blake Gornick David Graber Tim Grace Jody Graff Richard & Sally Graham Timothy Graven * Joseph Gray Tom Gredell Tyler Green Jason Green Gery Gremmelsbacher Debbie Gremmelsbacher Jason Gremmelsbacher Bernie Grice Jr. Mark & Kathy Haas Tom & Margaret Hall Christopher Hamon * Deanna Hamon J. Jeff Hancock Herman Hanley Keith Hannaman Elizabeth Hannaman Lonnie Hansen Bryan Hargiss John Harmon * Milt Harper Jack Harris David Haubein Tanya Duvall-Haubein Carl Hauser Jessica Hayes * Susan Hazelwood William Heatherly Mickey Heitmeyer * Loring Helfrich * LeRoy Heman * Randy Herzog Todd Higgins Bill Hilgeman

* Jim Hill John Hock April Hoffman Mike Holley Rick Holton * CW Hook * Allan Hoover Amanda Horne John Hoskins Todd Houf Tina Hrevus * Mike Huffman Wilson Hughes Larry Hummel * Patricia Hurster Walt Hutton Kyna Iman Jason Isabelle Jim Jacobi Aaron Jeffries Robert Jernigan Jerry Jerome Roger & Debbie Johnson * Don Johnson * Malcolm Johnson * Pat Jones Steve Jones John Karel Thomas Karl Jim Keeven Gov. Mike Kehoe * Duane Kelly Cosette Kelly Junior Kerns Todd Keske Robert Kilo * Martin King Bill Kirgan * Judd Kirkham * Ed Kissinger Sarah Knight TJ Kohler Jeff Kolb Chris Kossmeyer Chris Koster Dan Kreher Frank Kruse Carl Kurz * Ann Kutscher Larry Lackamp Kyle Lairmore * Jay Law Michael Leach * Gerald Lee Debra Lee Mark Lee Randy Leible Wade Leible * Joel LeMaster * Norman Leppo * John Lewis

Phil Lilley Michael Lindsay Bill Lockwood Leroy Logan Christine Logan - Hollis Bob Lorance Ike Lovan Wayne Lovelace Kimberley LovelaceHainsfurther Jim Low Mark Loyd Bill Lyddon Mary Lyon Emily Lute-Wilbers Martin MacDonald Karen Mansell Michael Mansell Steve Maritz Katie Marsh Danny Marshall Brenda Martien Larry Martien Edward Martin Dwight Massey Karen Massey John Mauzey Cydney Mayfield Bill McCully Chip McGeehan Teresa McGeehan Justin McGuire William McGuire Nathan "Shags" McLeod Jon McRoberts Don Meier Judith Meier Richard Mendenhall Tom Mendenhall Donna Menown John "Mitch" Mertens Jeffrey Meshach Cynthia Metcalfe Walter Metcalfe Larry Meyer Stephanie Michels Brooks Miller Mitchell Mills Joshua Millspaugh Davis Minton Bill Moeller Lowell Mohler John Moore, Jr. Gary Moreau Johnny Morris Mary Morris Zachary Morris Butch Morrissey Keri Morrissey John Mort David Mosby Leanne Mosby Steve Mowry Diana Mulick David Murphy

* Dean Murphy Richard Mygatt * Steve Nagle Rehan Nana Robert Naumann Phil Needham J. Roger Nelson Jeremiah (Jay) Nixon Gary Novinger Frank & Judy Oberle Larry O'Reilly Charlie & Mary O’Reilly Beth O'Reilly Anya O'Reilly Samuel Orr Jeff Owens Austin Owens Jeffrey Panchot Sara Parker Pauley Scott Pauley Randy Persons Edward Petersheim Albert Phillips Jan Phillips Glenn & Ilayana Pickett Jessica Plaggenberg Becky Plattner Zach Pollock Bryan Poole Tessa Poolman * Jerry Presley Albert Price Nick Prough Andrew Raedeke Kirk Rahm Camille Raymo Kurtis Reeg John Rehagen David & Janice Reynolds Carey Riley Kevin Riley Mike Riley Dana Ripper John Risberg Mary Risberg Ann Ritter Charles Rock Derrick Roeslein Rudy Roeslein Charles Rogers Kayla Rosen Gerald Ross Pete Rucker Benjamin Runge Tyler Ruoff William Ruppert Tom Russell Jacob Sampsell Bruce Sassmann Jan Sassmann Frederick Saylor Michael Schallon Mossie Schallon * Evelyn Schallon Thomas Schlafly

Pamela Schnebelen Emily Schrader Deb Schultehenrich Don Schultehenrich Tyler Schwartze * Ronald Schwartzmeyer Timothy Schwent Travis W. Scott George Seek Arlene Segal * E. Sy Seidler * Sara Seidler Joshua Shadwick Steven Sheriff Anita Siegmund Emily Sinnott Douglas Smentkowski Edward Smith Gary & Susanna Smith Zachary Smith * M.W. Sorenson Jeff Staake * Ed Stegner Jeff Stegner Everett Stokes William Stork Jr. Robert Stout Chris Straube Winifred Stribling Norm Stucky Mary Stuppy * Mark Sullivan Caleb Sumners Jacob Swafford Jim Talbert Norman Tanner Stephen Taylor Tim Taylor Travis Taylor Richard Thom Karen Thom Don Thomas Tim Thompson Jim Thornburg * Jeff Tillman Robert Tompson Mike Torres Matt Tucker Carl Turlin David Urich Jennifer Urich Alex Uskokovich Gary Van De Velde Barbara vanBenschoten Lee Vogel Albert Vogt Frank Wagner Ray Wagner * Julius Wall Ginny Wallace Mervin Wallace Jennifer Battson Warren Randy Washburn Mary Waters * Henry Waters, III.

Daniel Weinrich Michael Weir * Robert Werges Evelyn Werges Bennish Pat Westhoff Tom Westhoff Gary Wheeler Georganne Wheeler Nixon Rayburn Whitener Mark Williams Dennis Williams Dr. Jane Williams Stephen Wilson Michael Wilson Laurie Wilson Jonathan Wingo Jon R. Wingo James Winn Michael Wiseman Daniel Witter Brenda Witter * Addie Witter Olivia McKinney Witter Owen Witter Shirley Wolverson * Dick Wood Howard Wood Joyce Wood Nicole Wood Charles M. Wormek Brad Wright Evan Wright Suzanne Wright Veronika Yerina David Young Judy Young Dan Zekor Daniel Zerr Jim Zieger Robert Ziehmer Emily Ziehmer Lauren Ziehmer Colton Zirkle Ethan Zuck Guy Zuck Mark Zurbrick *Deceased

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Affiliate Highlights

Heartland Conservation Alliance

ounded in 2012, Heartland Conservation Alliance (HCA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit urban land trust dedicated to protecting, restoring, and connecting people to the Blue River watershed. Serving the most populated watershed in the Kansas City metro—home to more than 800,000 residents across 4 counties and 21 municipalities— HCA works to conserve the natural resources that sustain people, wildlife, and ecosystems throughout this critical urban basin. As the EPA-designated Urban Waters Ambassador for the Blue River, HCA convenes diverse stakeholders across multiple jurisdictions, including municipalities, nonprofits, businesses, public agencies, and underserved communities, to foster collaboration and create sustainable, equitable solutions for watershed health. This leadership role strengthens our ability to align regional partners around the shared vision of building the Blue River Greenway: a connected network of restored landscapes, accessible green spaces, and recreational opportunities that benefit the entire region. Guided by a One Health perspective, HCA recognizes the essential connection between healthy ecosystems, healthy wildlife, and healthy communities. Through environmental restoration, land conservation, policy leadership, and public engagement, our work is focused on improving water quality, restoring native habitats, expanding equitable access to nature, and raising the grade of the Blue River Report Card—a critical benchmark for measuring watershed progress. By combining conservation with community-driven action, Heartland Conservation Alliance is helping to Renew the Blue and build a healthier, more resilient Kansas City for generations to come because humans need nature.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

The Blue River Watershed. (Photo: Courtesy of Heartland Conservation Alliance)

For general information, contact info@ heartlandconservationalliance.org or call (816) 945-8505. To subscribe to News on the Blue for monthly updates, visit heartlandconservationalliance.org/sign-up-for-ournewsletter/.

Affiliate Highlights

Affiliate Organizations Anglers of Missouri

Missouri Bluebird Society

Missouri Trout Fishermen's Association

Association of Missouri

Missouri Bow Hunters Association

Niangua Basin Prescribed Burn Association

Missouri Caves & Karst Conservancy

Northside Conservation Federation

Missouri Chapter of the American

Open Space Council of the St. Louis Region

Electric Cooperatives Bass Slammer Tackle Basshole Bass Club

Fisheries Society

Outdoor Skills of America, Inc.

Burroughs Audubon Society

Missouri Chapter of the Wildlife Society

Ozark Chinquapin Foundation

of Greater Kansas City

Missouri Conservation Agents Association

Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc.

Capital City Fly Fishers

Missouri Conservation Corps

Ozark Land Trust

Chesterfield Citizens Committee

Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation

Ozark River Audubon Chapter

Missouri Conservation Pioneers

Ozark Riverways Foundation

Columbia Audubon Society

for the Environment

Missouri Consulting Foresters Association

Ozark Trail Association

Conservation Foundation of

Missouri Disabled Sportsmen

Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club

Missouri Ducks Unlimited- State Council

Pomme De Terre Chapter Muskies

Missouri Environmental

Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc.

Missouri Charitable Trust Dark Sky Missouri Deer Creek Sportsman Club

Education Association

Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever

Duckhorn Outdoors Adventures

Missouri Forest Products Association

Renew Missouri

Earth's Classroom

Missouri Grouse Chapter of QUWF

River Access Coalition

Endangered Wolf Center

Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation

River Bluffs Audubon Society

Festus-Crystal City Conservation Club

Missouri Master Naturalist

Rolla Outdoor Collaborative School

Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri Forest ReLeaf of Missouri Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park Friends of Rock Island State Park Gateway Sustainable Farmers Alliance Greater Ozarks Audubon Society Greenbelt Land Trust of Mid-Missouri Greenway Network, Inc.

- Boone's Lick Chapter

Scenic Missouri Inc.

Missouri Master Naturalist

Scenic Rivers Invasive

- Great Rivers Chapter Missouri Master Naturalist - Hi Lonesome Chapter Missouri Master Naturalist - Osage Trails Chapter Missouri Master Naturalist - Springfield Plateau Chapter

Species Partnership (SRISP) South Side Division CFM Society of Wetland Scientists Central Chapter Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers Sporting Dog Association of Missouri St. Louis Audubon Society

Heartland Conservation Alliance

Missouri National Wild Turkey Federation

St. Louis Community College Meramec

James River Basin Partnership

Missouri Native Seed Association

Jenny's Wildlife Wonderland

Missouri Outdoor Communicators

Stream Teams United

L-A-D Foundation

Missouri Outdoor Communicators

Student Air Rifle Program

Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance

Missouri Park & Recreation Association

The Conservation Fund

Land Learning Foundation

Missouri Parks Association

Tipton Farmers & Sportsman's Club

Legends of Conservation

Missouri Prairie Foundation

Tri-Lakes Fly Fishers

Magnificent Missouri

Missouri River Bird Observatory

Troutbusters of Missouri

Mid Mo Prescribed Burn Assn.

Missouri River Relief

Turtle Conservation Group

Mid-Missouri Outdoor Dream

Missouri Rural Crisis Center

United Bowhunters of Missouri

Mid-Missouri Trout Unlimited

Missouri Rural Water Association

Veteran's Outdoor Therapy Foundation, Inc.

Midwest Diving Council

Missouri Smallmouth Alliance

Watershed Conservation Corps

Missouri Association of Meat Processors

Missouri Society of American Foresters

Wild Bird Rehabilitation

Missouri B.A.S.S. Nation

Missouri Sport Shooting Association

Wild Souls Wildlife Rescue Rehabilitation

Missouri Bear Foundation

Missouri State Parks Foundation

WildHERness

Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative

Missouri Taxidermist Association

Wonders of Wildlife

Missouri Birding Society

Missouri Trappers Association

World Bird Sanctuary

Horticulture Program

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

It’s Your

SEASON

Shelter Insurance® is a proud sponsor of Share the Harvest & the Conservation Federation. Contact your local Shelter agent to insure your auto, home, life, farming, hunting & fishing gear. Find an agent near you at ShelterInsurance.com. Coverage options vary by state and eligibility. Not available in all states.

RUN. SUPPORT. CONSERVE. Every mile helps protect and enchance Missouri’s outdoors.

Saturday

september 19, 2026 8:00 a.m.

north jefferson recreation area

927 4th Street, Jefferson City, MO

SUPPORT CONSERVATION Proceeds benefit the Conservation Federation of Missouri to protect our natural resources, land, water, and wildlife. PARTICIPANT PERKS All runners will receive an event t-shirt*, finisher medal and more!

FUN FOR All Runners, walkers, families, and any lover of the outdoors are welcome to participate in this event.

* if you register by August 30th

Feature Story

Looking Back

Missouri’s Conservation History

Missouri Women in Natural Resources

issouri Women in Natural Resources (MOWiNR) took shape in the spring of 1989 after a Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Wildlife Division meeting in Kirksville. Lin Kozlowski, Harriet Weger, and Helene Miller were discussing some of the challenges facing women in natural resource jobs and decided that they should unite and do something about it. There were few women in the field of natural resources at the time, and they were among the earliest for MDC. Helene was a Resource Forester in Kirksville. Harriet was at Peck Ranch, and Lin was at Williamsburg, both serving as Wildlife Biologists.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Not unexpectedly, the discussion at that ad hoc meeting turned to the kinds of problems women face in the natural resources field. While several positive changes were taking place for women within the various agencies and entities represented, there was still evidence of discrimination, supervisor conflicts, and a general need for support and interaction among women professionals in a maledominated field. There were also other issues, including job sharing, maternity leave (before the days of family leave as we know it today), dealing with co-workers (or their spouses) who were not welcoming to women (most were supportive, but not all), and other concerns.

Feature Story Taking a cue from the Society of American Foresters' Women in Forestry organization, Helene suggested they try something similar in Missouri. Then, at the 1990 Missouri Forest, Fish, and Wildlife Conference (the predecessor of the Missouri Natural Resources Conference), Carol Trokey, who was with the University of Missouri Extension at the time, arranged a breakfast meeting to discuss the idea of a Missouri organization. More than 80 people attended and agreed to organize MOWiNR. At a meeting held on August 4, 1991, at Lisa Allen's house in Columbia, participants voted to formally organize as the Missouri Women in Natural Resources (men were always welcome). Dues were set at $5 per year. Participants at that meeting included Lisa Allen, Helene Miller, Lin Kozlowski, Carol Trokey, Kathy Cooper, Cheryl Lobb, Linden Trial, and Marcia Fowler. By the end of 1991, MOWiNR had 109 members, including three men. Members came from a variety of state agencies (DNR, MDC, MODOT), federal agencies (EPA, USFWS, USFS, USGS, NRCS, NPS), academic institutions (Lincoln University, UMC, Stephens College, CMSU), consulting firms, and non-governmental organizations. The organization's goals and objectives were approved and included developing a network for advice, support, and social interaction for women working in natural resources, sharing career information, including job opportunities, providing advice and encouragement to young women considering careers in natural resources, and increasing awareness and understanding of issues affecting women employed in the field. Specific objectives included encouraging informal meetings whenever opportunities arose, sponsoring an annual event, publishing a directory of members by geographic area as well as alphabetically, including job title, employer, address, and phone number, promoting regional meetings, publishing a newsletter, and sponsoring workshops or programs on issues and topics of interest. By August 1994, the group had obtained a Certificate of Incorporation from the Missouri Secretary of State, and in 1996, it was registered as a not-for-profit organization. There were summer and fall meetings, a spring social, and an annual conference in 1996 that drew 35 attendees. Bylaws were adopted, a girls' camping trip was held, and courses were offered on assertiveness (the trainer for this workshop declared it the most assertive group she had ever worked with), chain saw safety, and self-defense.

MOWiNR also published a quarterly newsletter and a membership directory to improve communication among members. The organization also arranged and hosted annual luncheons featuring speakers from the natural resources field during the Missouri Natural Resources Conference. One of the organization's most important accomplishments was establishing a network for women working in natural resources across Missouri. Equally important was bringing many of the issues women faced in the profession closer to the forefront. As a result, many of these issues were eventually addressed. A newsletter was published from January 1992 through May 1999. The final issue noted that the president had resigned, that membership had declined to fewer than 20 paid members, and that the organization had decided to transition to a minimal operating mode. The organization was active for 12 years and accomplished many good things for women in the natural resources field. As times changed and conditions improved for women in the profession, the group became less active. At the urging of the Board of Directors, the remaining members voted in May 1999 to suspend the bylaws and retrench into a less active mode while attempting to rebuild membership. By 2001, the organization officially ended when the Missouri Secretary of State informed MOWiNR that its incorporation status was being revoked for failing to file an annual report. By that time, the organization had been largely inactive for two years and had little to report. There were a few attempts to revive the organization, but by 2018, all remaining funds were donated to the Missouri Heritage Foundation to support MDC's Discover Nature Girls Camp. In summary, MOWiNR was the right organization at the right time, accomplishing important work for women in Missouri's natural resources profession. As one former member wrote, "I know it was a difficult decision (to suspend the bylaws) and think that the Board has done everything it can and has chosen a good alternative at this time. Without perhaps realizing it, MOWiNR has had a very positive effect on the women it serves, even though many of us are too busy to take advantage of the services it offers or to take an active role." Joe G. Dillard & Helene Miller, Former MoWNiR Board Members MOWiNR Annual Conference 1966. (Photo: Courtsey of the State Historical Society of Missouri)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Outdoor News

Route 66 and Missouri State Parks

his year marks the 100th anniversary of historic Route 66, which runs from Chicago, Illinois, stretching 2,448 miles across the heart of the United States and ending in Santa Monica, California. Missourians have a great opportunity to travel the 317 miles of the "Mother Road" that crosses our state while enjoying our state parks and historic sites along the way. Missouri has 57 official state parks and 36 state historic sites, several of which are just a short distance from Route 66. Traveling from St. Louis, you can start with a trip to the Scott Joplin House, an official state historic site, then stop by Ted Drewes, a St. Louis tradition, for some frozen custard. Heading down I-44, you'll come to Route 66 State Park in Eureka, with a free museum, Meramec River access, and nearly 15 miles of hiking and biking trails. Much of the original two-lane road can still be traveled by car, so it's a good idea to hop off the interstate and see the attractions that line the route. Meramec Caverns offers not only a tour of one of the nation's most beautiful caves, but also camping, rafting, and plenty of activities for kids. It is also a historic hideout associated with Jesse James and his gang. Meramec and Onondaga Cave state parks are close together, offering the chance to easily visit both parks in a single day or plan to set up camp and stay awhile. Onondaga Cave is another of Missouri's gems, and both parks offer camping, fishing, and boating opportunities. Lake of the Ozarks, Ha Ha Tonka, and Bennett Spring state parks are just a short drive off I-44 and offer plenty of recreational opportunities as well. Missouri is one of only eight states in the U.S. that does not charge an entrance fee to access its state parks, making them a great choice for residents and out-of-state visitors alike when planning a vacation. Camping fees and lodging are also affordable, making it easy to stay within your travel budget.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Other attractions along the way include the new Route 66 Neon Park, located in George M. Reed Roadside Park in St. Robert. Signs from the 1950s through the 1970s have been restored and installed in the park, giving visitors a glimpse of how advertising looked during the heyday of neon. The park is open from sunrise until midnight, with free admission and parking. A stop in Springfield should always include a visit to the original Bass Pro Shops, as well as the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium. Other historic sites in southwest Missouri include the Nathan and Olive Boone Homestead State Historic Site and the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. With a little planning, travelers heading down Route 66 can enjoy stops at Missouri's state parks and historic sites while driving the state's 317 miles of the Mother Road. There's plenty to see and do along the way. For more information on Missouri's state park system, visit mostateparks.com. For information on everything Missouri has to offer, check out visitmo.com.

Mike Capps

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Feature Story

The Future Shines Bright Along the Katy Trail Dan and Connie Burkhardt’s vision, generosity, and lifelong commitment to Missouri conservation are helping secure the future of the Katy Trail and CFM.

Editor’s Note: This is Part 2 of a two-part series exploring the remarkable story of Dan and Connie Burkhardt, their lifelong dedication to conservation, and their deep love for Missouri's outdoors. Through their vision, generosity, and commitment to the Katy Trail and natural resources, the Burkhardts have helped shape a lasting legacy that will benefit future generations of Missourians. The first part of this story was featured in the July/August edition of this publication.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Feature Story Recap from Part 1: The partnership between the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) and Magnificent Missouri (MagMo) is rooted in a shared commitment to protecting Missouri's natural resources and ensuring that decades of conservation work continues well into the future. Dan and Connie Burkhardt founded Magnificent Missouri with a vision of conserving land along the Missouri River Valley and supporting the Katy Trail, but they also understood the importance of finding a lasting home for that mission. After years of working alongside CFM and witnessing its strong leadership, financial stewardship, and long-standing commitment to conservation, they entrusted the organization's future to CFM, ensuring that their legacy will continue for generations.

Carroll is preparing to bike more than 200 miles of the Katy from west to east this fall, starting at Clinton and ending up at Peers Store. As his wheels spin, he'll be plotting how to lure more bikers and hikers to the trail, build word of mouth, and add more conservation education, outdoor research and development. The partnership with Magnificent Missouri is, he says, perfectly timed: "In my lifetime, I saw the conservation department gain a dependable funding source. That sales tax allowed them to do all kinds of things over time, and I see the same possibility with this partnership. We now have a long-term plan, and ideas that were once a dream have a shot."

That decision was about far more than combining two organizations; it brought together nearly a century of Missouri conservation history. The people, places, and milestones that shaped the state's outdoor legacy have long been intertwined, from the creation of the Katy Trail to the leadership of CFM and the vision of conservation icons like Ted and Pat Jones. As these stories converge, Part 2 reveals how relationships built over decades have laid the foundation for one of the most significant conservation partnerships in Missouri's history. Part 2 The Burkhardts are both the congenial sort, beloved all along the ideological spectrum. So they're especially glad to partner with an organization that, in Schwartze's words, "brings all kinds of people together for the common good. It's not about which political party you're from, it's about conservation. And we can always find common goals. We are an organization of organizations—more than 110 affiliate organizations at last count. So we're that big tent that brings people together—hikers, bikers, campers, and wildlife, hunting, and fishing enthusiasts." Immediate Past President Bill Kirgan grins. "Take two of our board members. One is head of the trappers' organization, and the other rescues animals that have been hurt, and is nursing a coyote back to health after it was hit by a car. It's a full spectrum, with a variety of expertise and talent. Everyone has their own pet projects—one is trying to get rid of artificial lighting so birds can migrate—and we don't talk politics. CFM lives up to the 'Federation' in its name." Draw a Venn diagram of the CFM board, President-Elect Kyle Carroll says, and "the circles will be pretty far apart. There are birdwatchers, deer hunters, fishermen, botanists, etc. But CFM is where they overlap. We all agree on clean air and water and that we need to do what's necessary to create the next generation of conservationists."

CFM already had its Conservation Leadership Corps and its scholarships, begun by Ed Stegner. Now the new Magnificent Missouri internship program will provide summer jobs for college kids, assigning them to do social media promotion and interview bikers, "wheels on the ground." This will help create a core group of conservationists who appreciate how the trail connects users to nature and know how to advocate for its protection. "Even counting fishing licenses in the basement made a difference for me," Dan remarks. "I was surrounded by woods and trails, and that summer was one I never forgot. For a few months, I was a part of Missouri conservation." While the first interns are starting work, the Ted and Pat Jones Bridge will open in Pleasant Hill, near Kansas City, moving Missouri one step closer to Ted's dream of a trail that crosses the state. Magnificent Missouri continues to encourage businesses that want to start up in these small communities to support trail users. Each year MagMo names a number of small trail businesses "Pillars of the Katy Trail," recognizing all they do to welcome and support visitors. Bikers and hikers come to Missouri from all over the world; these businesses make sure they'll find a welcoming place to rest, grab a coffee, or fix their bike.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story Remember the Burkhardt daughter, Katy? She's living up to her name. She and her husband, Scott Wolff, bought an old house on the Katy Trail in Treloar and converted it to an Airbnb where they host visitors from around the world. Recently they purchased a restaurant along the Katy Trail in Dutzow, and they plan to remodel and reopen it, also adding a coffee trailer and launching a new and much-needed bike shop. It will be the only bike shop on the Katy between Jefferson City and St. Charles. On the west side of the state, "there's so much going on with the Rock Island trail," reports David Kelly, reminded of those early days campaigning for the Katy, holding meetings to bring a string of small communities together. "The difference with the Rock Island Trail is that the communities are leading the effort. Because of advocacy from MagMo and CFM and the Friends of the Rock Island Trail, they have seen the benefit a trail brings. Gerald had the first section; Owensville is working on about three miles—all these communities are working together, and organizations like CFM and MagMo are trying to support them. Because currently, there is no state funding."

"The Katy's economic impact is incredible," she adds. "We've seen towns' fortunes completely shift because of the tourism dollars from the Katy Trail. Rocheport's real estate values have increased, and businesses have come in. The ultimate goal of the Katy is to stretch from the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to Arrowhead Stadium, and it will take partnerships like this one, joining CFM with MagMo, to help make that happen." Kelly thinks back to Ted's original vision: to create "this major artery that went across the state, connecting to small towns along the way. That has become a reality. And every new bridge across the Missouri River now has a bike lane." He falls silent, filled with a deep satisfaction. "You think about this corridor and what it means, historically. The small-town Missouri history that has been preserved because of these trails." Schwartze turns the conversation to the future, and all that will be possible because of these trails: "As the Rock Island Trail comes on, we'll have a worldwide destination to showcase the beauty of Missouri. The Katy stretches today from the Osage Plains of western Missouri to the confluence of America's two longest rivers. In between you have the hills and hollers along the Missouri River bluffs. And north of the river, that flat sweep of farmland, bright green in the spring, with the upland birds crossing the sky. You see Century Farms that have been passed from one generation to the next, intertwined with history and pride." CFM's nature education is especially crucial these days. The Parks, Soils, and Water Sales Tax was renewed in August this year, and Missourians resoundingly voted yes to preserve that tax with 82.28% in favor. Wallace stated: "Missourians care about conservation. We are the only state I know that has taxed themselves twice to support conservation and outdoor recreation. I just hope they don't start to take it for granted."

"The Rock Island would be the fourth longest rail trail in the country if completed," he adds, "stretching more than 200 miles. So we'd have the longest, the Katy, and the fourth longest, the Rock Island." Everyone expects that the new Pleasant Hill Bridge will provide some welcome focus on the Rock Island and its potential. Laura Hendrickson, the director of Missouri State Parks, is eager to see the bridge finished this summer: "That will provide a huge connection along the Katy. We're trying to get to Jackson County. Having that bridge in place is the western edge of the trail right now. There's been a big detour required to connect from the Pleasant Hill Trailhead; this bridge will provide a safe and clear path.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Feature Story She worries most about "political polarization, and all the environmental rollbacks we are seeing at the federal and state levels. Things that CFM has worked 90 years to make sure have a future. Even the U.S. Geological Survey's ecological mission, which includes the cooperative fish and wildlife units at universities. The University of Missouri works closely with MDC on research related to management of Missouri's wildlife, and the funding has been on the chopping block. "We are far enough removed from the days of obvious need for conservation that people forget why we do what we do," she says. "There was a time you couldn't hunt deer because there weren't enough, and now we worry about hitting them with our cars. That history is really important. We are seeing federal attempts to just take public lands for short-term profit. We are almost back to where we were in the 1970s, where we have to start protecting things again, and now we are just protecting what we have so we don't lose it." Schwartze has a list of issues urgent for the state, like the chronic wasting disease affecting white-tailed deer. With efforts to remove protections and research, he says, "we have to stand up to legislators and say, 'No, this isn't good, and this is why.' We have a lobbyist. We sound the alarm when we need to. CFM is 'the voice for Missouri outdoors,' and we let that voice ring out." The challenges never end, notes Kirgan. "Our initial mission was to get politics out of the game and take care of the land. But now, the biggest threats to the outdoors are in the state Capitol and the White House. Because of the actions of this administration, we now have an advocacy committee that can at least speak out about environmental cleanup and wildlife and monitor how the changing rules affect Missouri."

He can imagine how pleased Pat Jones, especially, would be by CFM's fierce advocacy and respect for science. "Our Conservation Leadership Corps trains students who want to get into the field of conservation," he muses. "How great would it be to have them follow in Pat's footsteps and go to the MDC tree farm, where they sell seedlings for a dime and plant dogwoods, pawpaws, and redbuds along the trail? More spring and fall color; more summer shade… "I think this is going to be a beautiful marriage," he says suddenly, thinking of the new partnership between Magnificent Missouri and CFM. "We can enhance both our audiences, if the public knows we are associated and on the same page. And MagMo's support is reshaping our whole organization. We used to spend so many hours begging, trying to get somebody to bid 20 bucks on something at a silent auction. That's still important, and we'll continue to do that. But now, with the MagMo collaboration, we can focus more on activities like our Bees and Butterflies fundraiser, where kids sell packets of pollinator-friendly native seeds grown by Missouri farmers, and we split the profit with the schools. You're not buying wrapping paper or overpriced chocolates, and the teachers have a chance to talk about the difference pollinators make." Dan and Connie are hearing dozens of ideas and matching them up with their own. "Going forward, Magnificent Missouri couldn't have a better partner than the Conservation Federation," Dan says. Both organizations will gain more public awareness, more funding, more energy behind each new project. "The Missouri outdoors is CFM's 'space,'" he continues. "They were present at the creation of the Katy Trail, and they've been around for ninety years. To have an organization of this stature, one that has made such a difference in Missouri, waiting to take over Magnificent Missouri—I hope it's 20 years from now, but if it's sooner, we know they are ready." "Magnificent Missouri focuses on the environment, on community building, and on bringing rural and urban folks together," he continues. "That was always a goal of Ted's for the Katy Trail: to give people from the city a way to experience and appreciate the countryside along the trail, and to show people in the towns along the trail that these visitors can benefit their communities. Our new collaboration with the Conservation Federation of Missouri is going to add another dimension to what MagMo does, and that will bring more attention and, we hope, more love and appreciation, to the Katy Trail and to the Missouri countryside." Jeanette Cooperman Photos: Magnificent Missouri

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

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Feature Story

Dick Wood Honored by the Archery Hall of Fame

first met Dick Wood in February 2002. I was attending my first United Bowhunters of Missouri Festival in Jefferson City and, through pure happenstance, was seated at a table with Dick and Denny Ballard during the banquet that evening. Since I was a bowhunting novice, I didn’t say much but listened closely as the two of them talked about hunts past, present, and future. I had no idea that I was truly in the presence of greatness, but I was impressed enough to commit both of their names to memory in case we ever crossed paths again. The next time I saw Mr. Wood was at the following UBM Festival, where he gave a presentation on his extensive archery collection. He was a great storyteller, and the sheer volume of knowledge he had on everything archery-related was quite impressive. Dick also seemed to be on a first-name basis with all the folks I was learning about who were instrumental in the creation and promotion of modern-day bowhunting. I struck up a conversation with him after his presentation, which, I think, helped him remember my name. To paraphrase the old movie line, that was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Several years went by with us running into each other at UBM gatherings. I decided to become more active in that organization and quickly found myself to be the vice president. My friend Brian Peterson became president, and no sooner had the votes been counted than Dick latched onto both of us and started whispering sweet nothings into our ears about us needing to be an active part of the Conservation Federation of Missouri. We attended our first CFM convention the following year, and I got to see Dick in his element there. He was a force of nature! He knew everyone and spent a lot of his time introducing Brian and me to other CFM members associated with archery. He impressed upon us the power of networking and encouraged us to spread the good news about archery and the United Bowhunters of Missouri to other convention attendees.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Brian and I were new to all of this, but with Dick’s help, we were learning about other organizations within the state and beyond that the UBM might benefit from forming relationships with. One of those was the Archery Hall of Fame, conveniently located near both of our homes in Springfield, MO, inside Bass Pro Shops. Neither of us had a clue such a place even existed, and we weren’t sure what kind of relationship the UBM should have with the place. Mr. Wood, however, already had a plan in mind and convinced us that it only made sense for a statewide archery organization to become familiar with the people who ran the hall of fame pertaining to our sport. As Mr. Spock would say, “It is only logical.”

Feature Story As luck would have it, during the first year of our leadership tenure, the AHOF was having an induction ceremony. We had no idea what that entailed, but Dick told us it was imperative that we attend this shindig to represent archery in our state. To show how good a sales job he did on us, that induction ceremony happened to take place on the OPENING DAY of Missouri’s archery season, and we skipped the opener to go to the event. I remember us both grumbling about it as we met up to go to the meet-and-greet party the evening before the ceremony. However, we both figured that it was part of our club leadership duties, so we walked through the doors determined to enjoy ourselves. It was a night that I will never forget. Dick met us at the registration table and started introducing us to everyone. It was amazing! We were standing in a room with living archery heroes and the family members of those heroes who had passed away. I actually got to talk to Hall of Famer Norb Mullaney, who was a longtime bow test columnist for Bowhunting World magazine.

The induction ceremony is a biannual affair, and the last one took place this past May. It was also the first one held without Dick Wood attending. So imagine my surprise when I walked into the banquet room and the first thing I saw was a portrait of Mr. Wood there to greet me. Apparently, Dick had made a lasting impression on the leadership of that organization too because they created the Dick Wood Membership Award, which will be given out to AHOF members who have gone above and beyond in promoting and supporting the AHOF and recruiting new members. That pretty much brought a tear to my eye because I cannot think of a better legacy for Dick and all that he has done for the sport of archery. As I looked for my assigned table in the packed room of attendees, I was hoping to run into Dick’s son, Darin, as I had met him on several occasions and always enjoyed talking with him. He often attended events like these with his father, I’d bet at his mother’s urging, so that he could keep an eye on Dick. With the surrounding chaos, though, it would be pure luck for us to cross paths. After finding my spot, I sat down to enjoy the show.

He was known for sometimes getting a bit too technical for his audience, but since I was an engineer, I loved his stuff. I was once encouraged by the Bowhunting World editor to poke fun at Norb and this trait in a humor piece I wrote for them. Fortunately, Mr. Mullaney had no hard feelings about my article, so the evening stayed enjoyable. Meanwhile, Dick was working the crowd as only he could. Once again, I was astounded by who he knew in the sport and what he knew about the sport. So that started my personal relationship with the Archery Hall of Fame, and I have been to every induction ceremony since. Dick would always ask if I was going to be there, and a lot of you know how hard it is to say “No” to that man. I would have gone even if he hadn’t asked. It is like attending a family reunion for me. I hang out mostly with the traditional archery crowd, and the ceremony weekend is a great time to catch up with old friends from all across the country. Over the years, I have heard acceptance speeches from greats like Gail Martin of Martin Archery, Pete Shepley of PSE Archery, and even a few hometown folks you might have heard of, like the Wilson Brothers and Ken Beck of Black Widow Bows in Nixa, MO. Several Olympic medalists have been inducted into the hall, and to hear about their feats firsthand makes you truly appreciate the skill and tenacity they possess.

Darren Haverstick, the author, with Dick’s grandson, Bret.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story

A moment of silence was held for those members who had recently passed on.

Tim Denial was the first recipient of the Dick Wood Membership Award.

One of the first orders of business that evening was presenting the Membership Award to its first-ever recipient, Tim Denial. Mr. Denial has been a longtime leader in the Professional Bowhunters Society, as well as the AHOF, and I believe he exemplifies all that Dick Wood stood for. Mr. Wood certainly would have approved of their choice to receive the award named after him! About midway through the schedule of presentations and stories, I was shocked to see Dick’s grandson, Bret Ervin, come walking over to my table. I had shared a table with Dick and him at the last induction ceremony and had heard many a story from a proud grandfather about Bret’s hunting accomplishments. Bret was there with his mother, Dick’s daughter Wendi, to see the Membership Award given out for the first time.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

His Uncle Darin couldn’t attend, but he had urged his sister and nephew to seek me out because he knew I would be there. It meant a great deal to me to be held in high regard by Dick’s family, and it was a pleasure meeting Wendi for the first time. We visited for a while, and I had some photos taken with Bret. We talked about the upcoming season, and Bret said he was getting ready, but it just wouldn’t be the same without his grandfather. My father and best hunting buddy had passed away in January, so I knew exactly what Bret was talking about. But Dad and Dick would want us to keep on keeping on, so that’s what we plan to do. Dick Wood touched a lot of lives during his time on earth, and I feel quite fortunate to have called him a friend. He lived and breathed archery and never missed an opportunity to promote the sport. He was a mentor to me in a lot of ways and showed the world by example how to be a good human being. Seeing him immortalized at the Archery Hall of Fame is a fitting testimony to his life. Darren Haverstick All photos by Darren Haverstick.

Feature Story

A Missouri Gem, an Arkansas Jewel

idway, Arkansas. Just east of Bull Shoals Lake and not far west of Norfork Lake. A short cup of coffee away from the White River. A hub for bass and trout fishing, legendary boats, and some of the best fishing tackle known to the serious bass fisherman. Also, the stomping ground of one, Mr. Gayle Julian. I’m sure Arkansas would probably want to claim Gayle, at least as a quasi-native son. After all, for over 30 years, his business, part of his life, and reputation has been tied to this geography just north of Mountain Home. But when you live close to the Missouri and Arkansas border, differentiation is determined mostly by where you vote, who you pay taxes to, and the plates on your truck and boat trailer. So, unabashedly, Missouri will lay claim to Gayle Julian, and by default, partial claim to the story of the Jewel Bait Company. In 1979, Gayle Julian and his wife, Terry, were living in the unincorporated community of Caulfield, Missouri with a hopeful but uncertain future. Laid off from their jobs with a major medical equipment manufacturing company, barely making ends meet, they were parents of a young child with another on the way. Times were tough but not impossible, but then the struggles of everyday life were turned upside down by a catastrophe leading to a major test of strength and personal faith. In the middle of the night Terry discovered their home was on fire. A scramble ensued, and fortunately, everyone escaped safely but with only the clothes on their backs as they watched everything they owned go up in flames and smoke. Two days later on Monday, as they tried to piece together their lives with the help of friends and family, they would receive letters informing them both of their full termination from their jobs, including the loss of insurance benefits. Also in the stack of mail was a letter notifying them that their unemployment benefits were running out, and the repair bill for the faulty chimney flue which was the cause of the fire added insult to injury.

The cards of life had been reshuffled in a major way, a situation most of us can only imagine. Suddenly without warning or time for preparation, the routine of daily life was reduced to moments of basic survival. Among the few things surviving the fire was a rod and reel stashed away in a storage shed. Its importance to this story cannot be understated. Needing ways to relax and heal during a stressful time, Gayle turned to fishing. As his interest in fishing grew, so did a hobby of sorts – tinkering with fishing tackle in his garage. Little did he know that his natural curiosity and abilities would lead him down a surprising path. At first, he made fishing tackle to meet his own needs and for friends, then as a cottage industry, selling to a couple of dealers here and there. Along the way, Gayle had an idea for a soft plastic bass bait he would eventually create and name the Sculpin Hyper-tail. The bait would prove to be interesting enough for a local writer to feature it in a story that would eventually be picked-up by Bassmaster magazine in 1994. The story would be far-reaching and lifechanging. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story About a week after the Bassmaster article came out, Gayle was stacking crossties and slabs at a sawmill for his father-inlaw, a job he was doing to supplement his income. He received a lunchtime phone call from his wife. The reason for the call? They got 40 orders that day for the sculpin bait, compared to the usual one or two per week. It appeared the Bassmaster magazine story had generated some interest. Very soon after, Gayle would receive an order for 6,000 followed by an opening order for 35,000 from a Japanese company; bass fishing in Japan was quickly growing in popularity. Like the mythical Phoenix rising from the ashes – from a rod and reel, ingenuity, support of family and friends, a simple magazine article, and someone 6,500 miles away willing to take a chance - the Jewel Bait Company was born. Today the company thrives, as does founder and owner Gayle Julian. If not managing the operations of Jewel Bait Company or giving his time in other ways, you can find him standing on the bow of his bass boat with a friend or his fishing partner, Scott Pauley. “When not making a spinner bait dance in front of a bass like no one else can,” says Scott, “you can find him in a Zen-like trance working a jig, while dreaming up new ideas and fishing creations.” Take a closer look at Jewel and you’ll quickly see what Pauley is talking about. In an effort to have control over production and timelines, Gayle purchased KG Manufacturing. “With over 500 sets of molds, Jewel/KG currently manufactures for 20 companies and is currently prototyping for five new customers,” Pauley adds. Today, Jewel averages about 2.5 million units annually, distributing to both domestic and international markets directly and through distributors to local and regional tackle shops as well as national retailers such as Walmart and Bass Pro Shops. It’s no wonder the Jewel Bait Company (jewelbait.com) has become an industry leader in quality, precision-manufactured fishing jigs notably Made in the USA, and Julian’s ethos is not negotiable: Quality will never be sacrificed. In February of this year I had an opportunity to meet Julian for the first time. I had heard his name mentioned many times over the years and was familiar with his company and some of the products but, surprisingly, our paths had never crossed. Over the next 24 hours we would share a couple of meals, time in a boat flipping jigs, and lots of conversation, including a tour of his impressive operation in Midway, Arkansas.

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During the drive home and later, I found myself thinking about the person I had just met, feeling impressed beyond words. When I looked a little deeper via websites, a few podcasts and conversation with Pauley, I discovered what fascinated me. Gayle Julian is deeply guided by his personal beliefs, a passion for fishing, commitment to business, and his need to create. And somehow, over his lifetime, he has intertwined these things in a quiet, balanced, and humble way, leading him down a path of accomplishment and earned respect that most of us can only dream about. “But more important to him than personal success is giving back to others,” says Scott Pauley. “He sponsors and supports anglers, both local and professional; supports high school and college bass fishing events and teams; helps handicapped anglers and those in need; and supports fallen heroes of America's military and their survivors. He is a man who leads by example, a man of faith that lives what he believes.” It was a warm sunny day for February when Julian and Pauley allowed me to peek inside their friendship and how they spend time together in the boat on the water. Fishing was the backdrop, but the richness of the experience was in the camaraderie. As stories were told during the day, Gayle would say, “If you’re fishing with me, you’re welcome to use my gear, tackle, snacks and water in my cooler. Whatever you need, you’re welcome to it.” What I learned later, when the stakes are higher and the tournament is in play, don’t expect a lot of conversation. Gayle is not just fishing. He’s focused. Becoming one with the water, the fish, the line, the jig, and that source of power he uses to create while simultaneously trying to catch a gamechanging bass. Peel back the layers and you’ll find a man with humble beginnings, a man of faith who lives his values. A man and hobbyist turned small business owner. A businessman, entrepreneur, and innovator who’s using his knowledge of automation employed in the medical industry to create and advance the fishing industry and all that it entails. A man who leads a 35-year-old company, with a modest 12 employees, dedicated to making quality fishing products “Made in the USA” featuring the commitment and work ethic of a small rural community. And this gem, jewel and treasure belongs to Missouri!

Dan Zekor & Scott Pauley Cover - Pauley and Julian (Photo: Dan Zekor)

Feature Story

Federal Cuts Threaten Natural Resource Conservation

or more than 90 years, one of the guiding principles of the Conservation Federation of Missouri's (CFM) work has been promoting sciencebased natural resource management. One of the purposes outlined in CFM's Articles of Incorporation is to "develop, promote and support a comprehensive educational program based upon scientific study and technical research for the advancement, restoration, wise use, management and conservation of wildlife and other natural resources." Science has long provided the foundation for effective conservation. Whether managing fish and wildlife populations, restoring habitats, protecting drinking water, controlling invasive species, or responding to emerging wildlife diseases, natural resource professionals depend on reliable scientific research to make informed decisions. At the federal level, however, this approach is under serious threat. Deep reductions in staffing at scientific agencies, proposals to eliminate entire research programs, and disinvestment in long-term monitoring are creating profound challenges for science-based natural resource management. Research by the Partnership for Public Service found that nearly 118,000 federal employees working in scientific fields were lost between September 2024 and February 2026.

While the overall federal workforce declined by approximately 12 percent, science-related agencies accounted for roughly 40 percent of all job losses. Partnership President and CEO Max Stier described the reductions as a "generational loss" whose consequences will be felt for decades. The organization's June 2 report is available at science.federalharmstracker.org. (The Union of Concerned Scientists also has a tracker at ucs.org. See Reports and Multimedia in the main menu at the top of the page). Following are just a few examples of changes— some already implemented and others still under consideration—that could have far-reaching and, in some cases, irreversible consequences.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story USDA Forest Service Reorganization

EPA Office of Research and Development

The U.S. Forest Service manages 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands encompassing 193 million acres of public land. This year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a restructuring that would close 57 of 77 Forest Service Research Stations across 31 states. The impacts to the 1,500 scientists employed by the Forest Service from the restructuring are unknown at this writing.

From its establishment in 1970, the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development provided the scientific foundation for many of the nation's environmental protections. The office was independent from the policy and regulatory offices to minimize political influence; conducting and funding cutting-edge research underpinning regulatory actions to protect public health and the environment.

According to Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility, potential consequences include: abandoning research on climate change impacts in forest ecosystems; reducing peer-reviewed studies of effective forest management practices; and replacing regionally tailored management strategies with a one-size-fitsall approach that fails to recognize the tremendous ecological differences among America's forests.

Last year, the current administration eliminated the office. More than 1,100 biologists, chemists, toxicologists, and other scientists were removed through layoffs, reassignments, or compelled retirements. A new Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions operates under the direct control of political appointees in the EPA Office of the Administrator.

U.S. Geological Survey Ecosystems Mission Area For the second consecutive year, the president's proposed budget would entirely eliminate funding for the U.S. Geological Survey's Ecosystems Mission Area. According to the USGS Coalition—an alliance of more than 80 scientific, academic, conservation, and professional organizations—this proposal would "end federal wildlife monitoring, fisheries science, water quality assessment, disease surveillance for threats like H5N1 avian influenza, and the Cooperative Research Unit program embedded at universities in all 50 states." These are not peripheral programs. They provide the scientific information that state agencies, universities, and conservation organizations rely upon every day. In Missouri, the proposal would directly affect both the Columbia Environmental Research Center and the Cooperative Research Unit at the University of Missouri. Fortunately, this remains only a budget proposal. Last year, Congress rejected a nearly identical recommendation after hearing from scientists, conservation organizations, sportsmen's groups, and other stakeholders. Continued advocacy will once again be essential to preserving these nationally important scientific programs.

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In an editorial published in the September 25, 2025, issue of Science, former Assistant Administrator Dr. H. Christopher Frey warned that eliminating ORD "raises concerns that fundamental, long-term research and innovation will suffer and... EPA science will be vulnerable to political interference." NOAA Research Funding Delays Budget reductions are not the only challenge facing federal scientific research. Despite Congress rejecting most of the administration's proposed reductions to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's budget and appropriating funding at approximately the previous year's level, the Office of Management and Budget delayed releasing those funds. As a result, NOAA was unable to issue research grants supporting work on weather forecasting, climate science, atmospheric chemistry, water resources, and related fields. Even temporary delays can interrupt long-term research projects, postpone hiring, and reduce the continuity of scientific monitoring programs.

Feature Story

Why It Matters State conservation and environmental agencies rely on federal research and partnerships to guide fisheries management, wildlife conservation, invasive species control, water quality protection, and habitat restoration. Universities collaborate with federal scientists on ecological studies that often span decades. When these programs are interrupted, gaps in data develop that cannot simply be recreated later. Longterm records tracking wildlife populations, water quality, climate trends, and ecosystem health become less valuable when continuity is broken. For organizations dedicated to conserving our natural resources, these losses have real consequences. Less science means greater uncertainty. Greater uncertainty makes it more difficult to develop effective management strategies, measure conservation success, anticipate emerging threats, and ensure that limited conservation dollars are invested wisely. In addition, the current administration has strongly signaled it wants to increase resource extraction. Many Executive Orders, regulatory proposals, and other actions point to increasing fossil fuel production, mining, and forest products extraction, while weakening environmental protections.

In the absence of science, resource managers and the public will be at a distinct disadvantage when making decisions with long-term implications for conservation. Science has never been a partisan issue. It is the foundation upon which sound conservation decisions are built. Regardless of political philosophy, protecting our forests, fish, wildlife, clean water, and public lands requires accurate information and a continued commitment to scientific research. The decisions we make today about supporting science will shape the health of Missouri's natural resources—and those of the nation—for generations to come. The Advocacy Action Team Cover - A bumblebee browses a gray-headed coneflower at Mizzou’s A.L. Gustin golf course. Pollinator research is under threat with proposed cuts to the USGS Ecosystems Mission Area, including potential closure of the USGS Bee Lab in Maryland, which assists scientists conducting research on native bees. (Photo: Leanne Tippett Mosby) Top - A doe and her fawns stand on alert at the Prairie Garden Trust near Fulton. Extensive staff loss and funding reductions pose significant threats to the research necessary for making sound, science-based natural resource management decisions. (Photo: Leanne Tippett Mosby)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Outdoor News

Prairie Strips Help Protect A Legacy of Soil & Water Conservation on Livingston County Farm

oil and water conservation has long been integral to the operation of the 1,200-acre farm in Livingston County, Missouri, owned and operated by Doug and Barbara Doughty. Doug’s sister, Patricia Howard, is a partial owner of the property. No-till planting and an assortment of conservation practices have been implemented on the farm for more than 50 years. In the early 1980s, Doug Doughty’s father, Merle Doughty, was a key advocate of what would become the Missouri Parks, Soils, and Water Sales Tax in 1984, which allocated a 1/10th cent sales tax to support soil and water conservation and Missouri’s State Park system. Practices funded by the tax, such as grass waterways and terracing, supported by the sales tax revenue over the years, have dramatically reduced erosion from farms in Missouri. In 2023, Doug and Barbara expanded soil and water conservation practices on their farm by enrolling in the prairie strips agricultural conservation practice, which is the establishment of linear, perennial plantings of prairie grasses and wildflowers within and/or around corn and soybean fields. Prairie strips reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, store carbon in the ground, and provide pollinator and wildlife habitat. Prairie strips (CP-43) is a continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) practice under the USDA’s Clean Lakes, Estuaries, and Rivers (CLEAR) initiative. If using CP-43 costshare to establish prairie strips, they must be in place for a 10- or 15-year contract period. CP-43 provides up to 50% cost-share payments for establishment, 10 to 15 years of annual rental payments, and other financial incentives. According to the Missouri Soil and Water Conservation Districts, since the early 1980s, Missouri’s soil erosion rate dropped more than any other state. It is estimated that in Missouri, more than 179 million tons of soil have been saved since the passage of the sales tax. While soil loss dropped by 44% between 1982 and 1992, millions of tons of soil are still lost annually from Missouri’s farm fields. Prairie strips can further—and dramatically so—reduce this loss. The Doughty farm includes 500 acres of row crops, some of which are bordered by 60- and 90-foot-wide prairie strips and also includes strips within a soybean field in an area prone to erosion.

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“If you are a cattle producer, your animals are assets,” said Doughty. “If an animal escapes a fence, it also becomes a liability. I think of soil nutrients on my farm in the same way. Prairie strips are like fences to keep soil nutrients where they need to be.” The Doughtys also have four- and nine-year-old CRP prairie plantings on other portions of the farm totaling 360 acres. In addition to preventing soil erosion and slowing stormwater runoff, the prairie plantings provide valuable habitat for grassland birds, pollinating insects, and other wildlife. If you are a row crop producer interested in establishing prairie strips on a portion of your farm, contact your local NRCS or FSA office for details and consider attending the October field day at the Doughty farm. Carol Davit The results of years of research on the benefits of prairie strips conducted by Iowa State University are summarized in this graphic.

Prairie Strips Field Day Doug and Barbara Doughty, in partnership with the Missouri Rural Crisis Center and the Missouri Prairie Foundation, will host a free Prairie Strips Field Day in October 2026. For details on the date, location, and how to register, visit mopraire.org.

Agency News

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION MDC honors Dan and Connie Burkhardt as Master Conservationists

he Missouri Conservation Commission and Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently honored Dan and Connie Burkhardt of Frontenac with their Master Conservationist Award during the Commission’s May 29 meeting in Washington. The Master Conservationist Award honors living or deceased citizen conservationists, former MDC commissioners, and employees of conservation-related agencies, universities, or organizations who have made substantial and lasting contributions to the state’s fisheries, forestry, or wildlife resources, including conservation law enforcement and conservation education-related activities in the state. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/about-us/awards-honors/masterconservationist-award-nomination. “Dan and Connie Burkhardt’s impacts on conservation in Missouri -- most notably to conserve and improve sections of the Katy Trail -- are far reaching through their dedication to protecting and preserving our natural resources,” said Commission Chair Margy Eckelkamp. “Their conservation restoration efforts along the Katy Trail are numerous and include the preservation of buildings of historic interest along waypoints, planting burr oaks, partnering with Forest ReLeaf on an annual Tree Camp for children, Honeysuckle Hacks, Burkhardt Grove featuring native Missouri trees, and the Peers Prairie,” Eckelkamp added. “The Burkhardts serve as visionaries, motivators, educators, documentarians, philanthropists, team builders, and as selfless conservationists whose clear focus is on bettering the places we call home,” said MDC Director Jason Sumners. “Their tireless efforts to preserve, promote, and improve our state will have lasting impacts for generations.” He added that the Burkhardts carry many torches for conservation and carry them together. “From the Katy Land Trust to Magnificent Missouri, their efforts to conserve land and water for public use have inspired many to think bigger than themselves,” Sumners said. The Burkhardts created the Katy Land Trust in 2010 after putting their land in Warren County into a conservation easement to protect and conserve it – and to educate Missourians about the shared responsibility needed to conserve lands for public use.

Conservation Commissioners and MDC recently honored Dan and Connie Burkhardt with their Master Conservationist Award. Shown l-r: MDC Director Jason Summers, Commissioners Ray Wagner Jr and Ed Clausen, Connie and Dan Burkhardt, and Commissioners Margy Eckelkamp and Frank Kruse. (Photo: Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation)

The focus of the Trust is to protect the agricultural, scenic, and natural resources along the Katy Trail. Magnificent Missouri formed from that to conserve and increase appreciation of the Katy Trail and the last 100 miles of the Missouri River Valley as a premier regional asset through education, events, and collaborative projects. “The projects Dan and Connie support and have supported will have lasting impacts on our natural resources and will be enjoyed by Missourians and visitors to our great state for generations to come,” said Sumners. One of their more notable projects is the Ted and Pat Jones Welcome Center on the Katy Trail in Treloar. The Burkhardts purchased the historic mercantile, restored the building, and then donated it to the state to create the only state-parkoperated welcome center on the Katy Trail. They also created and opened the Peers Store as a “Conservation Outpost” of the Katy Trail. The couple purchased the historic store and created a memorable stop on the Katy Trail featuring live music, art, refreshments, and the picturesque Peer’s Prairie. They have also worked tirelessly to raise funds -- including their own financial resources -- to support the preservation and development of Rock Island Trail State Park. The couple also supports other conservation organizations such as the Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands and Aquatic Systems and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Agency News

MISSOURI STATE PARKS The First Step Forward: The Birth of a New Trail

ith more than 1,000 miles of managed trail in the Missouri State Parks system, you can imagine the work and planning it takes to create a new one. A trail is almost never built just because a spot "looks nice." Missouri State Parks follows a strict planning matrix. “There is a process we go through when we receive a suggestion for developing a new trail,” said Logan Nuernberger, trail coordinator for Missouri State Parks. “Every park has what we call a conceptual development plan, and new trails must fit into that plan. We spend a lot of time talking with the facilities’ teams, as well as park visitors, before we even think about breaking ground on a new trail.” Nuernberger said part of his job is to scout the proposed area of the trail, taking his time and looking for the “cool things” he thinks hikers would like to see. “We take a lot of factors into consideration when planning a trail, such as is it going to connect two existing loops; are we adding an ADA path; and will the trail have a specific use like mountain biking or equestrian use. We also have to think about the level of difficulty, the location and ease of access,” Nuernberger said. Once a location within a park is determined, this is when the boots hit the ground and the fun begins, according to Nuernberger. First, he looks for sustainable grades. A trail that goes straight up a hill will turn into a muddy mess during a Missouri thunderstorm. The goal is to follow the natural contours of the land, usually keeping slopes under 10% grade to prevent erosion. Next, things hikers would like to see, such as a bluff overlooking the Missouri River, a glade, historic ruins or a waterfall are mapped out, as are areas to avoid, like unstable switchbacks, swampy areas that hold water or habitats of endangered species. Often, the park team has ideas of what they’d like to showcase.

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But before a single shovel touches the dirt, a proposed trail must clear intense environmental and cultural scrutiny. This phase can take months or even years, Nuernberger said. These assessments are to make certain the trail won't disrupt cultural resources, such as Native American sites, ruins of historic homesteads or the remains of old mining sites. When building a trail, the endangered species in the area must also be taken into consideration. For example, if certain trees need to be removed, it must be done during a time when it won’t affect disturb the cycle of animals, such as bats. Trails must also be mapped to avoid sinkholes, losing streams or cave entrances. Once the design is determined and clearances are approved, the groundwork begins. Trail building can be a unique blend of heavy machinery, contractors, Missouri State Park team members and volunteers. “We usually work on the assumption that the trail will be constructed by hand where feasible,” Nuernberger said. “Normally, we don’t use a trail dozer, so the process may take a while. The weather also plays a big part in how quickly a trail is built.” Nuernberger said it takes about month to produce a mile trail, but that is dependent on the number of people who are helping, as well as how easily accessible the trail is. When building a trail, the corridor is cleared, then the digging in the dirt begins. “You really need to get your hands dirty to realize the amount of work it takes to build a trail. We’re lucky we have volunteers, like the group who helped with Thousand Hills State Park new connector trail, AmeriCorps who has helped in the past and of course, our own team members. We even have dedicated trail workdays where team members from throughout the regions can help other parks,” he said. As expected, building a trail properly is a major investment. Missouri funds these paths through a mix of its dedicated Parks, Soils and Water Sales Tax and federal grants like the Recreational Trails Program, which is often matched by the literal sweat equity of volunteers.

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This investment meets a public demand. Whether it's for hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding, trails are the crown jewels of Missouri’s parks. Today, 70 state parks and historic sites maintain 260 trails, totaling 1,045 miles of managed paths. “Trails are critical to our mission as a whole,” Nuernberger said. “They not only provide recreation but also access to our state’s most significant natural and cultural resources. There are easy trails, paved trails and for the more adventurous, rugged trails. The trails provide opportunities for everyone to experience the outdoors.”

Sometimes we’ll need to reroute them depending on changes to the land.” Long before the first official boot steps onto a new trail, years of design, financial strategy and community sweat have already cleared the way. But the moment the tools are put away, the trail takes on a life of its own, ceasing to a construction project and becoming an open invitation and a promise that the next great adventure starts with a single step into the trees. For more information on trails at Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com.

But keeping those opportunities open means viewing the trail as an ongoing journey. “Many people don’t think of a trail as what it really is—a living thing,” Nuernberger said. “You can’t just build a trail and be done with it. We have trails in the system that are 50 years old, and they require maintenance.

State parks team members removing branches along what will be a new section of trail. (Photo: Missouri State Parks)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

NATURE is Healthy

Get healthy in nature this year.

mdc.mo.gov/places–go

Feature Story

Final Family Vacation

ur typical summer family vacations were camping trips, often to Minnesota or Wisconsin, where it was cooler in the summer for sleeping in tents, or to the Rocky Mountains. I grew up on Colorado’s eastern range and camped frequently in the mountains as a Boy Scout. When my father retired, my mother wanted to live by the sea, and they moved to Florence, Oregon, to a house on the coast with a view of Japan on a clear day. My father was never an outdoors person, and I was shocked when he bought a 38-foot fishing boat with twin inboard diesel engines, complete with downriggers for ocean salmon fishing. He completed the Coast Guard certification for navigation, safety, and foul-weather operation. I can’t remember him ever talking about fishing when I was growing up.

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He encouraged us for years to visit with our three sons and go salmon fishing in the ocean. The logistics for transporting the family to Oregon were significant, and I kept putting off the invitation. When our sons got involved in school sports, I realized we would need to make the trip soon or not at all. Our plan was to pack camping gear, including tents, cooking gear, and a gas stove, in duffel bags and suitcases. At this time, in the mid-1990s, taking luggage on a plane was not a problem. We planned the trip for the first week of August after weeks of discussion and compromises at our weekly family meetings to resolve competing activities. I bought the plane tickets.

Feature Story Two weeks before we were scheduled to leave, our oldest son, Tim, announced he couldn’t go because he would miss one day of ninth-grade football practice, which would make him ineligible for the first game. Football was the most important activity in his short life at the time, and missing the first game was unacceptable. We went round and round on alternatives before I finally agreed that if he found a more loving family to stay with, he didn’t have to go, and I would eat the cost of the plane ticket. But he didn’t make much of an effort to hold up his end of the deal, and he had to come on the trip. This was a big mistake, and I should have paid a family to take him for two weeks. But hindsight is always 20-20, especially when it comes to child-rearing decisions. The owner’s manual that comes with newborns is incomplete and not very helpful, requiring significant improvising. We flew to Portland, Oregon, rented a van, and drove along the Columbia River, stopping at the many spectacular waterfalls on our way to Bonneville Dam for a tour of the salmon fish ladder facility. At each stop, Tim refused to get out of the van and hike with us. When he finally did get out of the vehicle, he fainted from inactivity, hit his head on the ground, and rolled under the vehicle. I was comfortable with leaving him there to recover at his own pace, but Mrs. Urich, as a medical professional, was compelled to fish him out from under the van and administer to his injuries. We made our way to central Oregon and the Deschutes River, camping along the way. Several times I stopped along mountain streams so our sons could get out and expend pent-up energy in the water. At one stream, I noticed bright orange crawfish on the bottom. I offered five dollars to the son who could bring me the largest crawfish. Tim had started to put his sour disposition behind him, and all three boys stripped down to their underwear to catch crawfish. Kirk, our youngest son, won the five dollars, which was very disturbing to his brothers.

At another stream, I noticed anglers fishing for trout. They were dressed in waders with trout-fishing equipment and were obviously very skilled and intense but were not catching any fish. My Boy Scout experience in Colorado taught me the secret to catching shy trout. I cut up some hot dogs, and our sons were soon catching and releasing trout. I noticed the other anglers gradually moving toward our sons, thinking all the trout were in that part of the stream. Our next stop was a daylong rafting trip on the Deschutes River in a rubber raft with a guide. The Deschutes River flows through central Oregon for approximately 250 miles from its headwaters in the Cascade Mountains near Bend, Oregon, to its confluence with the Columbia River and is designated a National Wild and Scenic River and Oregon Scenic Waterway. The river is not as turbulent and challenging as the Royal Gorge, which we rafted a few years earlier, but the basalt cliffs and other scenery were magnificent. Even Tim put aside his droll attitude about missing football practice and enjoyed the trip. Our next stop was Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The dominant feature is a 17-square-mile collapsed caldera. We spent several days hiking over moonscape-like terrain. At one spot, there were several square miles of obsidian fields with signs along the trail warning hikers not to pick up the obsidian because soon it would all be gone.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story When our sons asked if they could take a piece of the black glass home to show their friends, I said it was fine because there was obsidian for as far as I could see. The park would not miss several pieces of volcanic glass. The most interesting feature of the park was the large, lengthy lava tubes, which we hiked through for hours. Finally, we ended up at my parents’ home in Florence, Oregon. Sadly, two days before we arrived, my father sold his boat, and we didn’t get to go ocean fishing for salmon. Of course, Tim was extremely disturbed because he would miss the first freshman football game for an ocean fishing trip that didn’t happen. His sour attitude returned. But we spent several days crabbing for Dungeness crabs from the docks at the harbor. My parents had several collapsible net traps we baited with chicken necks. The traps were lowered into the water to settle on the bottom. Crabs would move to the bait. Pulling the rope raised the sides of the traps. Crabs were measured with a special curved ruler, and the undersized and female crabs were thrown back. We caught enough crabs for two dinners. On the way back to Portland, we stopped and camped at several oceanside state parks. Many of these parks were high above the coast on basalt rock that dropped hundreds of feet to the water, making for spectacular views. We hiked out to the end of Lookout State Park, where, a hundred feet below in the water, a group of whales surfaced at intervals or lounged on the surface. Our sons spent two minutes looking at the whales and were ready to go. Our last night of the trip was in Portland. I asked our sons where they wanted to eat dinner. They noticed a buffet-style restaurant close to the motel and wanted dinner there. Mrs. Urich and I watched our sons inhale a disgusting amount of food before they turned their attention and robust, bottomless appetites to the dessert bar.

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On the way out of the restaurant, our oldest turned and slugged our youngest son in the stomach, and he threw up his meal. Technically, this was not a violation of the Urich family rules of engagement. I grew up with two brothers, and we frequently fought. I was not surprised our kids scrapped when they got old enough to slug each other with vigor. Mrs. Urich grew up with a sister and was shocked at some of the fights our sons had. Consequently, when they got older and much bigger, we established the three Urich family rules of engagement. The first rule was that all fighting had to take place outside. Mrs. Urich furnished our house with antique furniture and other antique accessories that could easily be broken by fighting kids weighing over 200 pounds. Second, combatants had to pay the insurance deductibles for injuries requiring a trip to the emergency room. The third rule was my favorite because I knew it would be frequently violated. Two kids could not gang up on one without my permission, which I occasionally granted, depending on the circumstances. Violators spent significant, productive quiet time with my five favorite tools, including a shovel, pick, wheelbarrow, posthole digger, metal fence-post driver, and wire fence stretcher.

Feature Story As I looked at the mess on the ground completely blocking the entrance to the restaurant, I knew this was our final family vacation. Our sons’ interests at that point in their lives had moved on to other activities. I spent the next several years driving our sons to weightlifting practice before school, which meant I was the first at work most mornings, attending weightlifting meets, and going to football games with Mrs. Urich, who never liked football, especially in cold, rainy, or snowy weather, but she endured. I volunteered to help with track meets. Our sons threw the shot put and discus and also ran on the fat-man relay. Participants had to weigh over 200 pounds, which our sons easily achieved thanks to Mrs. Urich’s outstanding genetic contribution. Three years after our final family vacation, Mrs. Urich and I were sitting in the St. Louis Dome watching our sons play for the state football championship. This was the first of three consecutive appearances.

Apparently, our oldest son survived missing the first freshman football game without serious repercussions. I thought about all the family camping vacations we took and the ones we planned but never made. Another casualty of their sports activities was our annual Thanksgiving Day morning rabbit hunt on our forty acres. The team traveled to the state championship games on Thanksgiving. Many of the players on the field were running around wearing expensive specialty shoes for artificial turf, which I donated with money saved by not going on more family vacations. Sadly, Mrs. Urich would have to endure six more years of football games. She always wanted at least one girl to share her interests in horses, antiques, gardening, and art, but instead she got three stinky boys whose activities often required her to endure dreadful outdoor weather conditions and who were occasionally outside fighting with each other.

David Urich Pg 42 - David, Mrs. Urich. Tim, Aaron and Kirk at Cape Lookout State Park on the Oregon Coast. Pg 43 - Oregon coast north of Florence Oregon. Pg 44 - Urich family rafting on the Deschutes River. Pg 45 - Kirk Urich holding the winning crawfish from a mountain stream in central Oregon. All Photos David Urich

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story

Frogging in the Old Days M

any years ago, about late July through early September, my brother, cousins and I set out limb lines on the Platte River. The days were hot in the hay fields, and fishing all night was quite a relief. We were young and only slept when it was absolutely necessary—not much. Our families made sure we had plenty of food as big boys tend to require, including stew, and sometimes a pot of brown beans. Mom made cobblers, generally blackberry with the fruit picked in our woods or apple from the previous fall’s bounty. Hog lard was kept on ice to be used in a Dutch oven for fish caught--and occasionally a bonus—frog legs.

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Running catfish lines is a game of patience. Checking them every four to six hours allowed whiskered fish time to seek out our baits and bite, leaving our opportunity to eat great food, drink our favorite beverage, and smoke cigars around the campfire. We always wanted more adventure and frog hunting provided exactly that. The problem was, there were unwritten rules to hunting frogs on a dark river like the Platte. First, they were almost never on a smooth bank. Most were safely positioned behind big brushpiles and in cut banks down the shoreline. This meant two things: getting out of the boat to wade in snake-infested waters, and wading in centuries-old mud that tried to suck your boots down and you with them. No one ever stepped in quicksand, but it was another threat.

Feature Story The big water snakes were generally not poisonous, but very aggressive and their bites hurt. A big snake’s bite felt like a swinging softball bat hitting you and their teeth stung like large needles. The frogs and snakes hung back in pockets full of brush, leaves, grass and who knows what. But we were not smart enough to be afraid— or at least we didn’t dare show each other any type of fear. The riverbanks were covered in thick tree foliage, blocking out most of the moonlight, and there were no lights in the area, so the nights were pitch-black. Our older cousin found headlamps at the Army surplus store that illuminated the banks and made finding frog eyes easy. The reflected frog’s eyes were shiny and the snakes gave off a red glare. Eyes shining higher up the bank were generally curious raccoons or deer, including an occasional big buck that probably died of old age in the vegetation twisted river bottoms where few humans could walk. We caught frogs two ways, either with a trident spear attached to an old rake pole, or by blinding them and moving in for a frog grab. The trick was not to break the beam and moving quietly. The consistent beam of light seemed to mesmerize the frog. We accomplished this by one hunter shining his light in the frogs’ eyes, kind of hypnotizing them, while the hunter slowly and quietly moved in for the grab. One of my cousins was bitten by a snake on the wrist while attempting to make a grab. The snake might have been sneaking up on the same hapless frog. The frogs were thumped on the head, and their skin was peeled off making the legs and back strips ready to be breaded and fried. The delicate white meat was delicious. By then it was time to check our limblines. We often caught channel, blue, or flathead catfish on live bait. Most were two to nine-pounds and were added to the sizzling hog lard in our old Dutch ovens after applying just enough fish batter.

Occasionally a few girls turned up, only wanting to fish, eat and drink, to our disappointment. Hey, we were teenagers. But my cousins married a couple of those girls and they’ve had long marriages, so it wasn’t all bad. Next morning we trailered the boat, cleaned up our camp, rolled up tents and made sure our campfire was completely out. There were always leftovers to take home, cooled in ice chests. We didn’t fry all of the fish or frog legs and had them for dinner a day or two later with our grandparents and parents. The grandmothers, of course, brought amazing desserts and side dishes. Most of my family is gone now, and my brother and I can no longer visit our old camping spots, too many memories, and arthritis in both our backs have made sleeping in a tent quite impossible. That’s why we have boats with padded seats on lakes. I do hope that another batch of young cousins, brothers and sisters have found this type of cherished area where we enjoyed life, as others likely did many hundreds of years before us. The fish and frogs are still out there with the well-hidden snakes. I guess our shadows will always remain. Kenneth L. Kieser Cover - Their legs were very tasty. Top - More than one variety of snake frequented the Platte River. (Photos: Kenneth L. Kieser)

Many evenings some of our friends would invade camp, generally after partying. They knew we had plenty of food, and were happy to share. More than one laid by our fire and woke up the next morning.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story

The Adventures of Frank, Ed, & Bert: Bassin’ Bert I see Frank and Ed waiting at the bus stop as I try to sneak by down the block, pulling the fishing boat towards their house. It’s a Monday school day for the older boys, but their dad Mark is off work and little brother Albert is out of preschool today. We’re taking advantage of the day to get Bert out fishing without big brother distractions.

“Hey Bert, wanna go fishin’?” “Yeah, let's go, Papa,” young Bert yells back as he comes down the driveway to meet me. It’s a nice day but windy, so we are heading to a smaller local lake where the lake won’t be so rough hopefully. Bert has only been on the boat one other time, so he is excited but also a little timid about getting on the water in it. We have our usual snacks, drinks, a change of clothes, and sunscreen along, but the most important extra thing we have today is Bert’s life jacket. After we arrive, Bert and his dad head towards the boat ramp to throw rocks into the lake while I get the boat ready to launch. I tied the boat up to the courtesy dock and called Bert.

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“Come on over here and get your life jacket on so we can go fishin’”. “Okay, Papa, but do you have a jacket too?” asks Bert. “Yep, Bert, I have one too.” “What about Dad?” “Your dad will also be wearing one when the big motor is running,” I replied. We all climb into the boat, and I attach my life jacket to the outboard motor kill switch lanyard. Bert is looking around the boat and asking lots of questions like “what’s this, what does that switch do, what’s in this place”. The one switch he remembers and is always pushing is the horn. We headed off looking for a place to fish with Bert pushing the horn button. HONK, HONK, HONK! “Okay, okay that’s enough already with the horn”, as I grab Bert’s hand just before another honk.

Feature Story Bert is enjoying the boat ride for a while, and soon I hear him whining about the wind hitting his face too hard and yelling at me to “slow down, Papa!” So, we slow down and find a spot where the wind isn’t hitting us too badly. “Bert, today we are fishing for Largemouth Bass, and the bait we’re using is called a Wacky Worm”! “Wacky Worm, that’s a silly name and Largemouth Bass is funny too, Papa, Is that because he has a big mouth?” Wacky worms are plastic worms with the hook attached in the middle of the worm instead of on the end, usually without any added weight. The weight of the worm allows you to cast, and the worm slowly sinks with the two ends of the worm wiggling as it falls. Bert is in the front of the boat with me working the trolling motor and casting his spider man mini pole with a green pumpkin colored wacky worm. He wants to be fishing with the same lures as the big guys.

shaking its head and causing the hook to come loose. “Oh man, he got off.” You can hear the disappointment in Mark's voice. “It's ok Dad, we got one in the boat already” Bert tells his dad. “Thanks buddy,” Mark replies. We are fishing close to the boat ramp and notice a Missouri Department of Conservation Agent checking licenses and talking to some fishermen on the bank. The agent saw us and heard the commotion when Mark caught his bass, so of course he wanted to see our fishing license and check our catch to make sure it’s legal. The agent asks us to motor to the bank so he can check. “Is that a policeman?” Bert asks.“No, that's a Game Warden” I reply. “What’s a Game Warden”? “It’s like a policeman for fishing, hunting, and boating laws. They make sure that folks who fish and hunt follow the laws and do those things safely”.

After a bit a boat drives by heading up the lake, and the waves created by that boat soon hit our boat. Bert drops his pole, yelps and grabs hold of my leg as the boat starts swaying. “I’m scared Papa” Bert says. “It’s hard to stand up.” “It’s ok, the boat will stop rocking soon”, I reply, “and you have your life jacket on for safety!” “Why don’t you and Dad have your life jackets on anymore?” “When fishing slowly with the big outboard motor stopped, we take them off because we can both swim if we fall into the water, we will be ok. If you fall into the water, you can’t swim well enough yet, so you need something to help you. We must all legally have our life vests handy when in the boat even if we aren’t wearing them”. After changing fishing spots, Mark finally hooks into a bass. “Whoa boy, here we go, I got one!” “I’ll get the net” I say while scrambling to find the net. “Did you catch a fish, Dad?” Bert asks. After a short fight I get Mark’s bass in the net. It’s a nice one, probably over two pounds. We take lots of photos and then put it into the live well to keep a while so Bert can watch it swimming. We will release it later. “You were right Papa; it does have a really big mouth”. A couple of minutes later Mark hooks into another one. “Yeah man, fish on”, Mark yells. The bass is another good one and soon rockets outta the water with a big splash, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story Each public lake has length limits and daily catch limits for each species of fish posted in an obvious place, usually at the access point or boat ramp. Size and quantity limits keep the fish population healthy with enough fish so that everyone can enjoy fishing and have some luck catching fish. The agent hands the bass to Bert and me so we can keep it or release it. We decided to let it go and toss it back into the lake. “I’m glad to see you wearing your life jacket,” the agent says to Bert. “Safety First”, Bert replies. Mark and I started laughing at Bert’s reply. That’s the same thing Bert has been hearing from the time he was born about being buckled into his car seat while riding in a car. Mark had said “safety first” when he put Bert’s life jacket on this morning. “Thank you, and have a nice day,” the agent says. “Same to you,” we reply. We continued fishing for a little while longer but soon decided to call it a day. After we are in the truck and heading home, Albert asks, “Why didn’t the Game Warden check my license?” “That’s a good question Bert, if you are under 16 years old you do not need a fishing license in Missouri”. “Okay, can I have some more fruit snacks Dad and when can we go fishin’ again Papa?”

Bert watches as the agent asks to see our fishing license, if we caught anything and if we kept our catch. The agent requests to come aboard to check our catch. Once on board he measures the bass for length. This lake has a 15-inch minimum on Largemouth Bass. Mark’s fish is 16.5, so we are legal. If that bass had been less than 15 inches it must be released immediately. The agent then tells us a story about the time he checked a fisherman who had a 9-inch largemouth bass in his fish basket attached to the dock he was fishing from. He said the reason he put it in the basket was so that he would not catch it again while he was still fishing for a larger bass. He claimed he would release it when he got done fishing. Even if that story were true, it’s still illegal to keep a 9-inch largemouth bass on this lake for any length of time.

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Now that’s what I like to hear from my grandson at the end of the day. Jeff “Papa” Blystone Pg. 48 - Thumbs up to Dad’s bass. Pg. 49 - Bert holding onto Papa. Pg. 50 - Bert Fishing in the livewell All photos: Jeff Blystone.

Feature Story

Nature Shows

or some people, their only experience with nature is watching shows on PBS, National Geographic, Discovery, and others in the comfort of their home. I also love watching nature shows. However, they are much better when I watch them while out in our Missouri outdoors rather than on television. Thanks to the work of the folks from the Missouri Conservation Federation and the Missouri Department of Conservation, we have a multitude of places to go enjoy nature and get away from this crazy world we live in today. All you have to do to find them is download the free MO Outdoors app on your smartphone or do a search on your computer to find all the places you can go to enjoy our Missouri outdoors.

When you can’t get to those places, you can create your own nature area around your home or farm. My wife and I did that several years ago and with very little expenditure. We are entertained every day by our own private nature area. We see all kinds of birds coming to our feeders. Bright red male Cardinals, gray Mourning Doves, and blue Bluejays. Woodpeckers, some with red heads, and other birds of all colors and sizes join them. Colorful iridescent blue Indigo Buntings, yellow Finches, Baltimore Orioles, and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, along with the entertaining tiny Hummingbirds. Robins fill our yard searching for worms for supper. They add even more to the bird show.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story We put out food for them in our feeders, but we also have many native plants we purchased from the Missouri Department of Conservation that birds and other wildlife depend on for cover and food. Our squirrel population is also part of the nature show out our windows. I watch young squirrels play tag and wrestle. I have even seen squirrels do the same thing with rabbits. In the fall, adults gather acorns for the winter and build nests high in the trees. In spring, birds dive-bomb squirrels that get too close to their nest. During summer’s hot days, I watch squirrels spread their bodies and lie flat in the shade. They are trying to cool off and are doing what is called splooting. Squirrel tracks are everywhere in the winter snow. We are also blessed, at times, to see deer, turkey, redtailed hawks, lots of crows, Great Horned Owls, and sometimes even an eagle. All the butterflies are another special treat. In spring we enjoy frog songs from the tiny peeper frog, to tree frogs, to bull frogs. There is always a nature show going on at our house every season of the year. To enjoy nature shows even more, I open the door and go outside with my binoculars to get a close-up look. I take pictures and record all the sounds with my smartphone. They will bring me many hours of enjoyment later and will be used in stories I write.

I try not to make noise while I am there in their world. If I am successful, the wildlife tolerate me being in there. They continue to do what they do. Geese honk, crows caw. Birds sing and feed. Squirrels chatter and run around everywhere. Both will scatter and hide if they hear the sound of a red-tailed hawk flying around looking for a meal. I go outdoors any time of day to watch and listen to nature shows. I love to be there as the sun rises, a cup of coffee in hand. The wildlife wake up and start their day. They don’t even know I am there with them as I watch and listen. Bird songs start, and a breeze blows through the trees. I might also see a chipmunk scurrying around or a turtle slowly walking and exploring our yard. A lizard or two are usually somewhere. Movement under a bush is probably a snake looking for his next meal. Sunrises are always beautiful. I can never take enough pictures of them or rainbows after a rain. It is much better than watching the morning news on TV and getting all depressed before the day even starts. Sunsets are also a favorite time for me. They are also beautiful. Deer move around looking for a place to bed down for the night. As it gets darker, owls hoot and coyotes howl. Bats begin to dive for bugs. Summer nights also mean a light show performance by thousands of tiny fireflies. I can also record and enjoy the sounds of frogs, crickets, cicadas, and katydids on my smartphone. A little thunder and lightning only add to the night. Pull up a chair and enjoy the show. You probably think I live in the country to enjoy nature like that. Fifty seven years ago, when we built our house, it was in the country. There were few neighbors. Today, I not only see nature shows out every window, but I also see other homes out every window.

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Feature Story Most people probably don’t even realize a live nature show is happening outside. I hear their barking dogs, their mowers, and weed eaters. Their cars and trucks drive down the road. Most of you can probably hear and see all that too. But even with all that, I bet there are nature shows right outside your window if you take the time to look and listen. Now, why would you bother to do that? First of all, we should all be mindful of the different types of media we consume and the impact on our minds. That includes TV, movies, books, magazines, news, and social media. Everything we choose to consume on a daily basis will affect our thoughts, feelings, and perspective in some way. There are lots of studies that show how spending more time in nature is good for you. One study showed nature can reduce symptoms of depression. Another study showed that bird-watching around your home can reduce stress and anxiety. Another study found that just listening to the sounds of nature can put us into a more relaxed and comfortable state. Other studies have shown that experiencing nature can lower blood pressure, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve our mood. Do you need any other reasons to start getting involved in watching and listening to nature shows around your home? After learning to enjoy your nature shows, I encourage you to take the next step. Go camping, even if it is in your own backyard. Hopefully, you will then take the next step and go camping outdoors away from manmade noises and artificial lighting. Go find a stream and paddle, fish, and play the day away, Or, take a good book and set a lawn chair in the water in the shade. Let a gentle breeze through the leaves and the sound of flowing water lull you into a good nap. That is pretty hard to beat. Believe me, I know.

Get on the MO Outdoors App and find places to go hiking. Enjoy nature along the way, and when you reach the top, look out over the valley below and be amazed. Find a river or lake and catch a fish or relax in or on the water. Learn to enjoy wildflowers in the spring, snow in the woods during winter, colorful leaves in the fall, and a star-filled sky on a summer night. Discover how incredible nature is. Get away from the TV, computer, and smartphone except for taking pictures or recording sounds. Escape all that is going on in your life and our broken world. Find the peace you seek. Restore your body and soul. I personally know who created the outdoors, and He did a great job. Let Him, and all the nature shows you will see change your life for the better. Anne Frank once said, “The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely, or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature, and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy amidst the simple beauty of nature.” Folks, that is the healing power you find when you get out in Missouri’s outdoors, or in your own yard, and experience all the many nature shows.

Larry Whiteley All photos court of Larry Whiteley

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story

The Cost of a Clear View

ost of us have experienced a bird hitting our window or at least know someone who has. Now imagine this happening across every neighborhood and every city—the number of collisions adds up very quickly. North American bird populations have declined by nearly 30% since 1970 due to a variety of human-caused threats. While habitat loss remains the leading driver, window collisions are a significant, yet often underestimated and preventable, threat. Missouri lies within the Mississippi Flyway, one of North America’s major migration flyways, which hundreds of millions of birds use each spring and fall. As these birds navigate urban and suburban landscapes, they continue to face the dangers of highly reflective and transparent glass, not just during migration, but year-round. Creating bird-friendly buildings in your community and at home can help reduce these fatalities and provide safer spaces for birds to safely navigate. Bird’s-Eye View Each year, up to one billion birds are killed by window collisions, making this threat one of the leading direct human-related causes of bird mortality. While many people assume skyscrapers are the primary culprit, most fatalities occur at homes and low-rise buildings.

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Residences (1–3 floors) account for approximately 44% of collisions Low-rise buildings (4–11 floors) account for approximately 56% of collisions Skyscrapers (12+ floors) account for less than 1%

These estimates are based on a widely cited analysis of birdbuilding collision mortality in North America by Loss et al. (2014). The way birds see glass differs dramatically from how humans see it. We are able to recognize, through visual cues such as window frames, that glass is a solid object. Birds, however, cannot readily perceive glass as a physical barrier. Most birds have eyes positioned laterally, on the sides of their heads, which enables a wider field of view. This is advantageous for detecting predators and navigating, but it also comes with limitations, such as reduced depth perception, particularly when looking straight ahead. As a result, birds may mistake reflections of trees, sky, or surrounding vegetation for real habitat or open space through which they can fly.

Feature Story Transparent about Transparency

Reflecting on Solutions

Lincoln University: Health and Security Sciences Building Lincoln University, a historically Black land-grant university located in Jefferson City, plays an important role in higher education across Missouri. As the campus continues to grow and develop, the university is constructing a new Health and Security Sciences building designed to support high-demand fields such as nursing, cybersecurity, and other essential disciplines. However, as construction nears completion, public concerns have emerged regarding the extensive use of glass in the building’s design.

Whether preventing window collisions in your own home or on a larger scale, breaking up reflections and the visual continuity of glass surfaces is key to reducing collision risk. Fortunately, a wide range of solutions already exists, ranging from simple DIY approaches to professionally installed treatments.

Because large expanses of untreated glass can pose a significant collision risk to birds, the Missouri River Bird Observatory’s Bird-friendly Communities staff conducted a meeting with Lincoln’s Facilities Manager and performed a site assessment to evaluate the building’s potential impact on bird safety. We also discussed a variety of preventative measures. Currently, the building is not expected to pose a major risk. While it is very reflective, there is currently little surrounding landscaping to be reflected in the glass, and no obvious transparent fly-through conditions were observed during the assessment. However, that does not eliminate the potential for future impacts resulting from changes in the surrounding landscape. If future vegetation growth aligns with reflective or transparent glass surfaces, it may increase the likelihood of bird collisions. The site will continue to be monitored for bird collisions to ensure any emerging risks are identified and addressed. University of Missouri: The Memorial Stadium Centennial Project Similar concerns exist at the University of Missouri (Mizzou) in Columbia. As construction and expansion efforts continue at Faurot Field, renovation plans have incorporated extensive use of glass as part of the stadium project. While these updates are intended to enhance the fan experience on iconic game days, the combination of reflective glass and the intense nighttime lighting associated with the stadium may pose a risk to birds. Although this site has not yet been formally assessed by the Bird-friendly Communities Program, it will continue to be noted for future monitoring and consideration as development progresses. The campus already maintains an active bird-collision monitoring project, which is valuable for tracking potential changes associated with these additions. Mizzou has also installed collision deterrents on two campus buildings that were shown to experience bird strikes.

Individually, homeowners can reduce bird collisions by applying window decals, tempera paint, tape patterns, Zen curtains, or bird-safe film to glass surfaces. It is important to apply these treatments to the exterior of the window and to follow the 2 × 4 rule. This means the spaces between visual markers should be no wider than 2 inches high and 4 inches across. This signals to birds that the gap is too small to fly through and helps break up reflections. On a larger scale, bird-friendly building design strategies offer longer-term solutions. These can include patterned or fritted glass, external screens, and UV-reflective glass treatments. One of the most effective and widely used approaches is the application of dot-patterned film. Although these treatments require an initial investment, they become cost-effective over time because of their durability and low maintenance requirements compared to other approaches. Despite concerns about obstructing views, many of these designs maintain adequate visibility while still deterring bird collisions. When integrated early in the planning process, these approaches can meet aesthetic and functional requirements while significantly reducing bird mortalities. Artificial light at night (ALAN) also plays a key role in reducing bird mortalities. ALAN can disorient migrating birds, pulling them off their migration paths, depleting their energy, and increasing the likelihood of window collisions. Reducing unnecessary nighttime lighting through simple strategies such as shielding light fixtures, using motionactivated lights, switching to warm-toned bulbs, or turning lights off when not in use can benefit ecosystems as a whole. These practices can extend beyond conservation benefits by contributing to human well-being, reducing light pollution, and generating energy savings that lower overall costs. As Missouri’s urban landscapes continue to expand, integrating bird-friendly design provides a clear and necessary pathway for reducing preventable bird mortalities and helping ensure that Missouri remains a safer, healthier place for both birds and people.

Katy Woelfel Reference: Loss, S.R., Will, T., & Marra, P.P. 2014. Bird-building collisions in the United States: Estimates of annual mortality and species vulnerability. The Condor 116(1): 8–23.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story

Wild About Wellness: Lions Mane L

ots of folks forage for morels; few forage for many other mushrooms. Lion's Mane mushroom, also called Bearded Tooth, is my favorite mushroom to eat. This easily identifiable, nutritionally packed mushroom lends itself to the center of a meal, an herbal supplement, or a wild side dish. It contains magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, protein, ergothioneine, and lots of fiber. Lion's Mane is usually big enough to serve a crowd from a single mushroom, making it a one-stop forage for dinner. Lion's Mane likes cool, moist, humid times of year but not a hard freeze. I've seen it from late October, when the nights start to cool, to December, when we haven't had hard freezes. It grows on live or dead trees, sometimes very high. I've harvested them from eight to ten feet up in live maple and cherry trees. Don't forget to look up when you're out on a late fall stroll! If you see a large white mass just hanging out in a tree, check it out. Lion's Mane is the only large, white-toothed mushroom in Missouri and can easily be identified. Make sure you use two forms of ID if you aren't 100% sure what you're looking at. That's safe foraging. The mushroom in the picture was about ten feet up in a choke cherry tree in late October. Three people took some of it home. I personally made three meals for my family from approximately half the mushroom we harvested. I sautéed mine in half-inch-thick steaks, as photographed, and froze what I didn't use that evening. Shout out to Katie Marsh for being a great foraging buddy and getting so excited about this find. She is the one who spotted it. After harvesting Lion's Mane, trim off any discolored sections, such as sunburned, dry brown, or frostbitten areas. It should still feel a little soft and rubbery. If it has become hard and woody, it has passed its prime and will be bitter and never soften.

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Feature Story You'll need to remove any debris left from the tree it was harvested from as well. It is important not to rinse the mushroom until just before you cook it, if at all, as it will turn mushy. I always refrigerate it in a paper bag until I'm ready to sauté it.

Lion’s Mane Tacos

To freeze it, you must sauté it first, but it keeps for months in the freezer after that. Once sautéed, it has a texture and light flavor similar to crab. Lion's Mane makes a great vegetarian protein to base a meal around and is considered a powerful adaptogen. It also makes a wild and wonderful side dish on its own. I like Lion's Mane tacos (see recipe), Lion's Mane and seaweed soup (my favorite), eating it plain sautéed, using it in pasta like chicken, or dehydrating it into a powder to add to other dishes. Just remember, it has a light flavor and takes on the flavor of anything it is cooked with. All sorts of Lion's Mane recipes can be found online. That's helpful when one mushroom can make so many meals. I am including my Lion's Mane taco recipe because, seriously, who doesn't like tacos? Also, the recipe starts with basic sautéing directions for those who just want to eat it as a mushroom steak.

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Ingredients: • Fresh Lion’s Mane • Avocado oil or coconut oil Salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, onion powder to taste. • Warm Corn Tortillas

Other taco toppings to your taste. Be creative. I serve mine on heated corn tortillas with avocado, tomatillo salsa, fresh cilantro, sliced radish, shredded red cabbage for texture, and maybe garlic aoli. I use just enough avocado to compliment the Lions Mane and provide some healthy fats to the meal. The tomatillo salsa is particularly complimentary to the light flavor of the Lion’s Mane. Other things like shredded cheese, roasted peppers, roasted cauliflower, green sriracha, or pico de gallo would be tasty on the tacos, depending on your taste.

Happy Foraging. Forage for wellness. Directions: Cut the fresh Lion’s Mane into ¼ to ½ inch slices or steaks. You can cut them into small or large pieces as you’d like in your tacos. The smaller pieces will cook faster. 2. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, and onion powder to taste. Do not salt until you’re ready to sauté as the salt will pull the moisture out. 3. Sauté on medium in a pan with enough avocado oil or coconut oil to brown the slices and not stick. 4. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 3 minutes on each side for nearly half inch steaks shown in the photo. 1.

Kat Brookshire Top - Katie Marsh (left) and Kat Brookshire (right) forage for Lion's Mane in local Missouri forests. (Photo: Kat Brookshire) Bottom - Lions Mane sauteeing in a skillet in preparation for a taco recipe (Photo: Kat Brookshire)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

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Feature Story

The Giant in the Room

rom 1969 to 1972, I was one of my dad’s most valued employees. I could carry feed buckets, open gates, and direct him as he backed up to a trailer. My legs weren’t yet long enough to reach a clutch and brake, and I couldn’t see over the hood of anything larger than a riding lawn mower. But I was a first-rate runnin’ buddy, and we went everywhere together.

Frequently at the center of that table sat Vernon Renne, the all-seeing, all-knowing maharajah of hunting and fishing. Possessing a neatly trimmed beard and mustache and seemingly never out of uniform, he was our county conservation agent. I held him in awe, even above my older brother, who was nearly an adult at 2½ years my senior and had a minibike.

It was during this era that my dad introduced me to the center of the intelligent universe—the local coffee shop. Sitting at the end of a long table, drinking chocolate milk and eating heated honey buns with an extra side of cigarette smoke, I absorbed the combined wisdom of the smartest people on the planet. They treated me like I was an equal. So, as a 5-year-old, sitting with "the guys" became a priority, and I was quick to suggest that Dad and I go get a cup of coffee.

Mr. Renne held the only worthwhile job in the world. I couldn’t think of a better life than exploring the outdoors, watching wild animals, and eating lunches that consisted solely of peanut butter sandwiches with crushed potato chips on top. Every chance I got, I’d pester him with questions. And I had a lot of chances because Vernon and I spent a lot of time in the same places: church, school, the coffee shop, and the barbershop where his wife cut my hair.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

Feature Story Few would argue with the fact that those years were golden for wildlife in Carroll County. It was at the coffee shop, that bastion of fact-based news, where the latest animal sighting would be announced. When that happened, all heads would turn to Vernon, who would either smile or laugh, and folks would know the truth of the matter. Turkeys were rare, and a flock of them would hold conversation around the table for a solid week. A bald eagle sighting would make the daily paper, and families would drive across the county to catch a glimpse. I recall 10 cars parked on the river levee, everybody watching a single bald eagle sitting in a tree a mile away— the only one we’d see that entire year. Although news of a 10-point buck would be met with good-natured skepticism, there was no doubt the deer population was exploding. Beaver hides were selling for $50, and river otters had been sighted near Waverly. And responsible for all of this was friendly, soft-spoken Vernon Renne. With the patience of Job and a ton of courage, he taught hunter education in our schools and gun safety in the basement of the Farm Bureau. If there was a civic meeting, chances were good Vernon would speak at it every year, and he never ran out of interesting material or useful knowledge. Couldn’t ID a tree? Call Vernon. Want to crappie fish? Call Vernon. Hit a deer, see a mountain lion, tan a hide, plant a butterfly garden, or raise bees? Call Vernon. He was the least threatening guy you’ve ever met and the one you least wanted to disappoint. He had an almost mystical ability to appear right before the shot that shouldn’t be taken. A friend once snuck nearly a mile along a drainage ditch intending to jump-shoot an enormous gaggle of geese that had been working the area for a week, only to walk into Vernon Renne, just sitting there watching them and waiting for him. They had a nice chat until my friend turned and slogged back to his truck, leaving Vernon eating his peanut butter and potato chip sandwich.

Vernon taught my whole county to stop and smell the wildflowers. He gave himself entirely to meeting people where they were (even if they weren’t where they should be) and encouraging them to go outside. In doing so, he became one of the most valued people in the county. A wonderful part of my life as a commissioner for the Missouri Department of Conservation is that I get to meet this generation’s Vernon Rennes. The extraordinary commitment exhibited every day by our conservation family hasn’t changed. They’re still meeting people where they are and encouraging them to learn about, enjoy, protect, and enhance our natural bounty. Their successes are wonderful. Today, Missouri has deer that number in the millions. I have turkeys in my woods, river otters in my pond, and I counted 67 bald eagles in one spot this fall, none of which was thought possible in 1970. Vernon’s job description didn’t require him to "manage social media." But neither did it require him to manage growing bear and elk populations. I’ll take that trade. If you’re a little caught up in today’s stress and uncertainty, I invite you to take a break from all that and join me at the local coffee shop. We’ll invite our county agents, and I’ll treat us all to heated honey buns. If we’re really lucky, somebody will light up a cigarette, and we’ll talk about how good we have it in Missouri. Frank Kruse Left - Vernon Renne the front row, left, badge #136

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

Feature Story

A Katy Trail Update: Interns on the Trail

n our short time working on the Katy Trail this summer, we’ve already gained a new perspective for the trail and its users. We spend most days at trailheads between Sedalia and Jefferson City, conducting small maintenance, collecting videos or pictures for social media, and other miscellaneous tasks. The main aspect of our job is simply getting to know people. We approach trail users with a smile and introduce ourselves. Clipboard in hand, we ask if they are willing to answer some questions about the Katy Trail. People almost always say yes and proceed to tell us their story. At the time of writing this article we have surveyed 300 people; you wouldn't believe how interesting some of these conversations have been.

CONSERVATION FEDERATION

We’ve talked to people from all over the nation and so far we’ve covered 35 of the 50 states in the U.S. and have covered 4 additional countries (Russia, Mexico, Canada, Poland.) The Katy Trail is not only the longest rails to trails project in the U.S., but also a melting pot of different upbringings and cultures, all brought together by this beautiful trail. Trail Stories from Colby My favorite question on our survey is “What made you want to come to the Katy Trail?” This question is where I really start getting to know someone, and allows trail users to share their story.

Feature Story I have received a variety of different answers, some that really make you realize how special this trail is. For example, I saw a lady resting on a bench at the North Jefferson trail head. We started talking and she explained to me that she had already ridden from St. Charles to Clinton, and now she was riding back to St. Charles for a grand total of 480 miles. I asked her what prompted a ride of this magnitude and her response was simple (like it was no big deal,) “I just beat cancer, and I wanted to do something hard.” I spoke to a man who chose to celebrate his 71st birthday on the trail (although it wasn’t the only thing he was celebrating). He had undergone back surgery and was instructed to take it easy for around 10-12 weeks. Well, his 71st birthday happened to fall on the 12th week after his surgery, and to celebrate he went for a 120-mile ride down the Katy. He also told me that he used to be a category 3 racing cyclist and had done some rides with 3 time Tour de France winner, Greg Lamond. Getting to interact with trail users directly, and hearing first hand what the Katy Trail has to offer to people all over the world has been an unforgettable experience. I have already developed a strong connection with Missouri Conservation through my own personal experiences. Whether it was camping at a Missouri State Park, enjoying the views on a hike, or floating down the Jacks Fork River, I have gained an extra appreciation for all the efforts that go towards preserving Missouri’s natural beauty. Becoming a resource for people to explain how riding the Katy Trail was on their bucket list, or how completing the trail was a life changing experience, has only expanded upon my well-established love and support for Missouri Conservation. Trail Stories from Carter With more than 400,000 visitors each year the Katy Trail attracts people from all over the world. My favorite part of this job is getting to meet a random sampling of these 400,000 people who have different backgrounds and their own story to tell. Some of what I learn from people is history about the trail, a particular town, or where they live, but sometimes I get to hear their life story. As I listen to their stories, I get a better understanding of the reasons people visit the Katy Trail.

Here’s an interesting way someone was using the trail. As I was biking on the trail I saw a lady was cutting leaves off some plants. The plants looked like pokeweeds which are poisonous to humans, so I approached her and asked about the plants. She explained they were for a dish found mainly in African American, Appalachian, and Native American culture. This dish, called poke sallet, is made by boiling and straining pokeweed leaves several times to remove all the toxins. This sounds like a lot of work, but it was amazing to see cultural history being preserved, and see a Missouri state park was part of it. The Katy Trail is used for more than recreation, some people use it to commute or in some cases move across the state and change their life. I was at the Boonville trailhead starting the day when a man rode up and stopped. I introduced myself and he started telling me his story. He explained that in the last few months he’d been released from prison. Since it was difficult to find work with his record, he was going to St. Charles to get help from a friend who he was incarcerated with who became a pastor. He wanted to change his life and change the lives of people who might make the same mistakes he did. The Katy Trail happens to go from where he was, to where he wanted to start his new life so he got on the trail and started riding. I’ve known how great a resource the Katy Trail is for those using it and the communities along its route, but this internship has shown me what a profound impact it has on our state. I hope everyone has the chance to experience the Katy Trail and everything it has to offer. Colby Adams & Carter Taylor Colby Adams and Carter Taylor survey a bicyclist at the Ted and Pat Jones Welcome Center in the Treloar Mercantile (Photo: Taylor Hurley) Map - Most popular states: 1. Missouri 2. Iowa 3. Illinois 4. Ohio 5. Kansas States missing: Arizona, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER - 2026

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Your Legacy Can Live On

The greatest inheritance is a Missouri worth exploring. For many of us, Missouri isn't just where we live. It's where we learned to fish with our grandparents, watched deer and turkeys at sunrise, hiked wooded trails, or gathered around a campfire with family and friends. A planned gift to the Conservation Federation of Missouri allows those experiences to continue long after we're gone. By naming CFM as a beneficiary of your will, trust, retirement plan, or life insurance policy, you become part of a lasting legacy that protects the places and traditions that define our state. The greatest inheritance we can leave is a Missouri worth exploring.

LEGACY GIVING OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE CFM IN YOUR WILL A simple bequest allows you to support Missouri conservation while providing for the people you love.

MEMORIAL & HONOR GIFTS Celebrate the life of someone who loved the outdoors with a gift that protects Missouri's natural resources for generations.

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS Name CFM as a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), Life Insurance Policy, or Donor Advised Fund. It's often as simple as updating a beneficiary form.

MARKETABLE SECURITIES These may be transferred electronically to an account maintainted at oe or more brokerage firms.

Your love for Missouri doesn’t have to end with you.

For more information, contact the office at (573) 634-2322 or email us at info@confedmo.org.

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