A lush, vibrant lawn is the pride of any homeowner, a green oasis that invites barefoot strolls and backyard gatherings. But achieving and maintaining that perfect lawn requires more than just an occasional mow. It’s a year-round commitment, with each season bringing its own set of challenges and requirements. One of the most critical aspects of lawn care is proper watering, a task that, if done correctly, ensures your lawn stays healthy and resilient no matter the weather. more

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Through their pollination efforts, bees provide a multitude of benefits to humans and to other wildlife species. more

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the National Deer Association (NDA) invite landowners and others interested in managing deer on their properties to join them online on Tuesday, July 30, at 6 p.m. for a free Zoom webinar on invasive plant control for deer management. Hunters and landowners will learn about identifying and controlling Missouri’s top invasive plant species and how to incorporate these learned skills into their deer management plans. This live Zoom webinar will begin with a presentation from an NDA Deer Outreach Specialist followed by questions for MDC and NDA staff. more

VAN BUREN— Identifying a need and creating a quality product is key to the success of any manufacturing business, and that's no different for Big Spring Sheltered Workshop in Van Buren. When that business also provides meaningful employment to adults with developmental disabilities and has a connection to the area it serves, that's the icing on the cake, or maybe the bait on the hook in the case of the Royal Minnow Traps the workshop produces. more

Ah, the allure of a warm afternoon spent basking in the sun in your own backyard. There’s nothing quite like the lazy, languid days of spring and summer, where the biggest concern might be how long you can lounge before retreating to the shade. But even the most idyllic afternoons can quickly sour with the arrival of an unwelcome visitor: ticks. These tiny pests have a knack for turning a perfect day into a potential health hazard. However, with a few strategic steps, you can transform your yard into a tick-free haven. more

Members and guests met at the Viandel Winery on June 26 for their monthly meeting. In Hilary Connolly's absence, the meeting was conducted by Robi Tanner, club VP.  The guests were introduced and our lunch order placed. more

When venturing into the wilderness for a summer hike, one of the most critical aspects to consider is hydration. The importance of carrying enough water cannot be overstated, as dehydration can lead to severe health issues, diminish your performance, and turn an enjoyable adventure into a dangerous situation. This article explores how much water you should carry on a wilderness hike in the summer, considering various factors and providing practical tips to ensure you stay well-hydrated. more

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – When it comes to things people are afraid of in the outdoors, venomous snakes top many fright lists. While it’s true people should always give venomous snakes space, it’s equally true that some of the things people fear about venomous snakes are based on things that simply aren’t true. more

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo -- Missouri is home to more than 1 million anglers, 500,000 hunters, and several thousand trappers. MDC issues nearly 2.6 million hunting, fishing, and trapping permits each year. While MDC permit prices have increased only slightly over the past 20 years, MDC’s cost of doing conservation work have increased significantly. more

The Mountain View Garden Club is delighted to announce that Connie and Cecil Womack, residing at 1010 Chowning Street, have earned the prestigious title of Yard of the Month for May. This recognition is well-deserved, as the Womacks’ yard is a stunning showcase of rustic charm and meticulous care, capturing the hearts of the judges and anyone lucky enough to visit. more

A healthy lawn thrives with the right amount of water and nutrients, making lawn care a year-long process that requires attention and diligence. Even when the sun isn’t very strong and the temperatures are cold, a lawn still needs water. That water requirement multiplies when higher temperatures lead to increased evaporation, making it essential for homeowners to understand the intricacies of proper lawn hydration to maintain a lush, green landscape. more

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters and anglers that squirrel and black bass seasons open Saturday, May 25. more

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Want some free fun that gets family and friends outside in nature? Get hooked on fishing with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Free Fishing Days June 8 and 9. During Free Fishing Days, anyone may fish in the Show-Me State without having to buy a fishing permit, trout permit, or trout park daily tag. more

On April 7 the waters of Norfork Lake became the epicenter of intense competition and fervent hope. The 39th Annual Cystic Fibrosis Buddy Bass Tournament, hosted at Lake Norfork Marina, Henderson, Arkansas, drew an impressive roster of anglers from across the region, all converging with a dual purpose: to claim victory in the water and to fight cystic fibrosis on land. more

In the intricate world of agriculture and gardening, the health of plants is deeply intertwined with the quality of the soil in which they are planted. While some plants exhibit remarkable resilience, thriving under various conditions, many are sensitive to their environmental substrate. Among the various types of soil-related challenges that gardeners and farmers may face, sodic soil stands out as a particularly problematic issue due to its unique chemical composition and physical properties. more

Missouri State Parks officials are asking for public input regarding the future development and considerations to be made for the Eleven Point State Park in Oregon County. more

Mark Twain National Forest officials are sharing with the local community a grant opportunity that is being offered at a national level. more

So, you decided to tackle the Ozarks, a sprawling, beautiful wilderness in Missouri, famed for its rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas. It’s a hiker's paradise—until you find yourself wandering off the path and suddenly, the adventure feels a bit too real. Getting lost can happen to the best of us, whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or a casual day hiker. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get your bearings and make your way back safely, peppered with a few tips and tricks for good measure. more

JOPLIN, Mo. – Frying isn’t the only method people can use to get caught fish onto the dinner table. more

Recently, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri Conservation Commission has selected Jason Sumners as the next director of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), effective June 1, 2024. Sumners currently serves as the deputy director of resource management for MDC and will succeed Sara Parker Pauley, who will retire after 30 years of public service. Sumners will become the tenth director in the Conservation Department’s 87-year history. more