Don’t feed bread and crackers to geese and ducks. more

In an era where grocery prices fluctuate and people crave a deeper connection to their food and land, homesteading is making a major comeback. more

The unique geography of the Ozarks and its rivers and streams draw thousands of locals and tourists alike each summer to crystal clear waters for swimming, floating and fishing. Keeping those waters clean enough to sustain wildlife and maintain the beauty of the area has been taken on for decades by Stream Team volunteers who want to preserve the habitats for future generations to enjoy. more

Officials with the Ozarks Heritage Research Center (OHRC) at Missouri State University-West Plains will host a special presentation, “Songs of the Ozarks,” featuring storyteller and singer-songwriter Dawn Larsen at 6 p.m. March 25, at the Garnett Library, 304 W. Trish Knight St. in West Plains.  more

Arts Alliance member events and activities: more

Agriculture is an industry of cultivation, of growth and nurturance. Producers tend to their fields and livestock, manage their crops and, in many cases, foster community. more

There are a number of outfitters serving the Eleven Point, Current, Jacks Fork and North Fork rivers that surround the greater West Plains area. The Quill reached out to all to inquire about upcoming seasonal hours and offerings. Here’s what they said: more

Mary Badiny was 31 when she and her late husband, Skip, purchased 53 acres of land in Rover, near Koshkonong, that would eventually become Maranatha Farm. Initially, it was a barren land with only a few sugar maples and cedar trees. But Mary and Skip shared a passion for horticulture, and together, they transformed the once desert-like property into an oasis.  more

The agriculture program at Missouri State University-West Plains has long been a respected institution in the region, shaping future generations of farmers, ranchers and agricultural business leaders. Now, thanks to a generous donation, the program is poised to reach new heights. more

The Ozark Small Business Incubator is celebrating a milestone year in 2024, with record-breaking numbers on its annual Economic Impact Report. Over the past year, OzSBI dedicated 870 hours to working with 243 unique business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, providing support leading to the successful launch of 18 new businesses. more

The West Plains Public Library has expanded to keep up with the times and remain true to traditional library services while offering community members of all ages and abilities the opportunity to learn, enhance job skills and prepare for professional certification from online sources at home or on public computers at the library. more

Many Ozarkers have lived on the same land most of their life, but it is still important to call 811 before you dig. With technology moving forward at breakneck speeds and more people new to the area than ever before, it is important to call and get the underground utilities marked.  more

When the buds on the trees begin to swell and the last frigid blasts of winter have retreated north, the fishing year for me truly begins. March begins where winter left off. The water is cold and it takes a few days of warmth to get much of anything moving. By the end of the month the trees are flush with new leaves and the water is teaming with fish. more

The University of Missouri Extension is offering a free webinar series for horse owners beginning with the first session at 6 p.m. March 19. There are four webinars planned for 2025.  more

In the heart of the Ozarks, where rugged hills and winding trails create a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, a group of young riders is pushing limits, conquering challenges and embracing the thrill of mountain biking on cross-country-style trails. They are the West Plains Composite Mountaineers, a team of student-athletes in grades six through 12 fueled by the desire to test themselves against the elements. more

Students who will be freshmen in fall 2025 at West Plains High School and who are interested in learning more about the Speech and Debate program at the school are invited to a free summer camp. more

The West Plains Council on the Arts has issued a call for submissions for its juried 2-D and 3-D exhibit for Current and Retired Art Teachers, to be displayed from May 17 through June 21 in the gallery in the mezzanine at the West Plains Civic Center, 110 St. Louis St. more

West Plains business owner Beverly Fisher Jennat is calling on the public for assistance as she attempts to win a prize of $25,000 in the Forbes Magazine Entrepreneur of Impact competition. more

Get a jump on the gardening season by starting vegetable and flower seeds indoors now, says University of Missouri Extension field horticulturist Donna Aufdenberg. more

Sponsors and vendors are sought by Pine Meadows Venue in Willow Springs for its July 4 Red White & Blue Concert for a Cause to benefit Whetstone Boys Ranch in Mtn. View. more