September 2025 vol 86 no 5

For more than eighty-nine 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 will play 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.

Make your contribution today, to preserving our state’s conservation legacy.

Why A Federation!

In preparing this historic 90th Anniversary Special Edition, I once again perused the pages of our past, looking at articles, photographs, and notes from the men and women who built the Conservation Federation of Missouri. Along the way, I came across a short piece published in Missouri Wildlife in May 1939 titled, Why a Federation!

It’s a story told by Wilbur C. Buford, then Secretary of the Conservation Commission, about how the Federation rallied to defeat a resolution that threatened Amendment No. 4, the very backbone of Missouri’s modern conservation system. When the Commission decided it wasn’t their role to fight that battle, they handed it to the Federation. In less than two weeks, overwhelming pressure from citizens made the resolution vanish without a trace.

Buford’s closing words still ring true today for our incredible strong efforts in the Capitol, when he said, "...I want to thank the Federation for that job.” That was 1939, but it could just as easily be 2025. The faces have changed, but the Federation’s work has not. We still fight, and win, for Missouri’s natural resources. I promise you we will continue to protect our outdoor passions under my leadership.

Just this past July, I stood in the Governor’s office for not one, not two, but three bill signings. Each one was a victory for conservation that CFM proudly championed. Passing even a single bill in a year is a remarkable feat. Passing three in one session? That’s history in the making. We will proudly frame these with other signed bills from recent years. In glancing across my office at signed bills, this tallies six bills in six sessions. A total team effort.

We celebrate these wins, but we also know the road ahead demands just as much unity and grit as the Federation showed over the last nine decades. One of the biggest efforts on our horizon is the renewal of the Parks and Soils Sales Tax in 2026. This isn’t just another vote, it’s a cornerstone of Missouri natural resource funding, and securing it will require every single member, affiliate, and partner pulling together.

Advocacy, Chronic Wasting Disease, partnerships, protecting and securing dedicated funding, and the needs of our many programs all demand our best efforts as we navigate the future.

The founders of this Federation pulled together to protect Missouri’s outdoors for future generations. Now it’s our turn to carry the water hard and fast into the future. We owe it to future generations.

For 90 years we have stood together, a proud past. Forever ahead of us, an unstoppable future, onward, together.

Yours in Conservation,

Tyler Schwartze CFM Executive Director, Editor

STAFF

Tyler Schwartze - Executive Director, Editor

Micaela Haymaker - Director of Operations

Michelle Gabelsberger - Membership Manager

Trisha Ely - Development & Events Coordinator

Joan VanderFeltz - Administrative Assistant

Emma Kessinger - Creative Director

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Executive Committee:

Bill Kirgan, President

Ginny Wallace, President-Elect

Steve Jones, Vice President

Benjamin Runge, Secretary

Ryan Verkamp, Treasurer

Board Members:

Richard Ash

Mossie Schallon

Gary Van De Velde

Dick Wood

Jake Swafford

Emily Tracy-Smith

Jim Low

Ralph Duren

Katherine Brookshire

Leanne Tippett-Mosby

Adam Sapp

Emily Schrader

Jennifer Battson-Warren

Bill Cooper

Governor Jay Nixon

Wes Swee

David Urich

Dana Ripper

Zach Morris

Lisa Allen

Tom Westhoff

Mike Schallon

Katie Marsh

Kyle Carroll

Jean Nock

Bill White

Jeff Meshach

Kathie Brennan

Laurie Wilson

William Hall

Michael Meredith

Alexander Scott

Ryan Coovert

April Hoffman

Eric Rahm

Dave Murphy

Kaley Brittain

John Hickey

Cydney Mayfield

Dr. Jane Williams

Kendra Varns Wallis

Pam Bollinger

Bill McCully

THE MAGAZINE

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.

Send address changes to:

Conservation Federation 728 West Main Jefferson City, MO 65101

COVER

Photo taken by Kent Campbell in celebrating CFM's rich history with a look back at editions past of our rich history.

Thank you to all of our Business Partners.

Platinum

Gold

Doolittle Trailer

Enbridge, Inc.

G3 Boats

Silver

Forrest Keeling Nursery

Lilley’s Landing Resort & Marina

Missouri Wildflowers Nursery

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

Big Bear Butcher Shop

Boone Electric Cooperative

Cap America

Central Bank

Custom Promotional Branding

Dickerson Park Zoo

Pure Air Natives

Redneck Blinds

Rusty Drewing Chevrolet

Roeslein Alternative Energy, LLC

Mitico Quaker Windows

Starline, Inc.

St. James Winery

Drury Hotels

HMI Fireplace Shop

Hodgdon Powder Company, Inc.

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

Joe Machens Ford

Lewis County Rural Electric Coop.

Marble Graphics II LLC

Midwest Mailing Services

ModernLitho Jefferson City

Moneta Group

On Time Toner and Supplies LLC

Peapod Learning Center LLC

Remembrance Forest

Truman’s Bar & Grill

United Electric Cooperative, Inc.

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

"The Voice for Missouri Outdoors"

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.

In 1935, conservationists from all over Missouri came together to form the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) with the purpose to take politics out of conservation. The efforts of our founders resulted in the creation of Missouri's non-partisan Conservation Commission and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). Since then, CFM has been the leading advocate for the outdoors in Missouri.

Partnerships

Over 100 affiliated organizations

Share the Harvest

Corporate & Business Partnerships

State & Federal Agency Partnerships

National Wildlife Federation Affiliate

Operation Game Thief

Operation Forest Arson

David A. Risberg Memorial Grants

Missouri Stream Team

Education

Conservation Leadership Corps

Missouri Collegiate Conservation Alliance

Confluence of Young Conservation Leaders

Affiliate Summit

Scholarships for youth and students

Governor’s Youth Turkey Hunt

National Archery in the Schools Grants

Conservation Federation Magazine

Advocacy

Legislative Action Center

Resolutions to lead change

Natural Resource Advisory Committees

Conservation Day at the Capitol Staff and members testify in hearings for conservation and natural resources

Ways You Can Support CFM

Support our efforts to promote and protect conservation and natural resources in our state. Members will receive our magazine six times a year, event information, our bi-weekly enewsletter, and the opportunity to grow our voice.

Membership

CFM provides the platform for a diverse group of organizations to have their conservation voices be heard. Affiliates have the opportunity to apply for grants, receive educational training and promote the mission of their organization.

and Grant Support

Life Membership

Become a life member for $1,000. Life memberships are placed in an endowment fund that allows us to continue our work in perpetuity.

Business Partnerships

Business partners will enjoy recognition in each magazine issue along with opportunities to reach and engage with our active membership. Ask us about our different Business Partnership levels.

Event Sponsorship and Product Donation

All of our events have raffles with both silent and live auctions. The contributions of in-kind products and services not only assists in raising funds for conservation, but also promote the businesses that support CFM. Scholarships

CFM provides scholarships to graduates and undergraduates. We also provide grant funds to youth education programs and to affiliate projects. Contributing will help future generations initiate boots on the ground projects.

Your Voice & The Voice for Missouris Outdoors

As noted in other articles in this edition, the Conservation Federation of Missouri was founded 90 years ago, on September 10th, at the Tiger Hotel in Columbia. It was a gathering of individuals who joined together to speak with one voice to save and reestablish the bounty of Missouri’s wildlife, forests, and streams. The result of that meeting was the creation of the Missouri Department of Conservation, where decisions concerning the outdoors are made through science—not politics or profit.

Citizens speaking with one voice on matters of general concern is what keeps America on track. In recent weeks, CFM has been involved in two such efforts—one national and one at the state level.

On the national level, the recent budget proposal “The Big Beautiful Bill” contained provisions to sell public lands in an effort to help pay for tax reductions. CFM’s representative to the National Wildlife Federation, Dana Ripper, headed an ad-hoc committee to analyze the provisions of the proposal and rally members of CFM and our affiliate organizations to contact their representatives in Congress to have this provision removed from the budget. The nationwide outcry from those who want to keep public lands public was heard and the provision was removed. We must stay diligent in our efforts on the national level.

On the state level, Representative Bruce Sassmann (a CFM Founders Circle and Life Member) has worked for two years to pass a bill restricting the sale of invasive species in Missouri. Thanks to outreach from CFM members and our affiliates to state representatives, the bill was passed at the end of the session. After I finish writing this article, I’ll be heading to watch the Governor sign it this afternoon.

Through these actions, I am happy to observe that the spirit of citizen concern for our outdoors—the same spirit that prompted the founding of CFM is still alive. It is important that we all stay informed about what our government is doing and be willing to make our voices heard—both in support and in opposition.

2025 Events Schedule

50/50 Online Raffle - January - April - July - October

Take your chance at half the pot during our quarterly 50/50 raffles.

89 Annual Convention - Virtual - Feb. 25-27, March 4-6; In Person - March 7-8 th

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 - April 2

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.

Conservation Federation Banquet: Springfield - April 10

Join us for a fantastic meal while networking and supporting CFM.

Share The Harvest Golf Tournament - June 9

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 Event - June 28

CFM will be hosting its 4th annual life member only event.

Conservation Federation Banquet: Columbia - July 10

Join us for an unforgettable evening at our Columbia banquet at Bass Pro, featuring great food, exciting auctions, and a chance to support CFM!

Pull for Conservation: Central - August 9

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

Mega Raffle - Starts in August - Drawing December 5

Enter our Mega Raffle for a chance to win big prizes and support CFM!

Fall Online Auction - September 8-19

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

90th Anniversary Celebration - September 10

Join us at the historic Tiger Hotel, the birthplace of the CFM, as we commemorate this significant milestone. Enjoy special events and activities that honor our rich legacy and look forward to a bright future.

Affiliate Summit - September 10

CFM affiliate organizations are invited to network and learn.

Holiday Online Auction - December 1-12

Bid on many exciting items just in the time for the holidays.

Event dates are subject to change.  Please visit www.confedmo.org or follow us on social media for the most up to date schedule.

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.

Life Memberships Help All: Gary Moreau

After growing up in Columbia, Missouri, and being trained as a wildlife biologist, I left for the Army and then attended graduate school at Utah State. My training and ambition were to become a wildlife manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. However, my career path changed in Utah, where I became a District Conservationist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

I moved to Minnesota following the 1985 Farm Bill and spent 17 years as the District Conservationist for Cottonwood County. Unable to transfer back to Missouri with NRCS, I retired in 2002 and returned to Columbia to live permanently.

While in Utah and Minnesota, I worked with state DNR offices and found that the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) was the envy of both states. In Minnesota, I watched as wildlife managers struggled for funding and saw repeated attempts to pass a conservation sales tax fail.

MDC got it right years ahead of other states. I wanted to support that success by becoming a lifetime member, ensuring my gifts could be used in perpetuity for the benefit of Missouri’s citizens. You see, I didn’t really retire. I became active in a nonprofit that provides mobility to people around the world who would otherwise be crawling on the ground.

In Memory & Honor

Allison Roba Vandivort Scotti Iman

Mobility Worldwide builds hand-cranked carts and gives them away to restore dignity and purpose to those who are often forgotten. Their lives are transformed simply by being given the ability to move.

MDC, in partnership with the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM), gives disabled hunters and anglers access to our incredible natural resources. Thank you for thinking of people of all abilities. I wanted to leave a legacy that helps the disabled enjoy our outdoors while also providing mobility carts to those in need around the world. We take far too much for granted as a society. As life members, we are helping all individuals, and that is what makes the effort feel truly worthwhile.

Gary Moreau

Dick Wood

Harvey Faircloth

United Bowhunters of MO

William R. Brown, Share the Harvest

Elizabeth Armend

Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Blystone, Share the Harvest

Mr. and Mrs. Mervin Wallace

Alison Brinker

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Kirgan

Marilyn Camden

Mr. and Mrs. Mike Schallon

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ash

Rememberance Forest

Remembrance Forest tree plantings help you honor your loved one in a conservation-minded way either as a thoughtful sympathy gift, a way of celebrating a special life event, or as a unique gift for the person who has everything. Remembrance Forest lets you and your designated loved ones participate in meaningful native habitat restoration in the heartland of America, which can provide solace for the grieving, a connection to nature, and hope for the future. You can also choose to notify your loved one or their family about this special purchase with a digital notification or a printable certificate. Each tree purchased at remembranceforest. com serves as a living tribute, growing in their memory while contributing to our conservation heritage, just like CFM does.

At Remembrance Forest, our tree plantings help you honor your loved one in a conservation-minded way either as a thoughtful sympathy gift, a way of celebrating a special life event, or as a unique gift for the person who has everything. We will let your loved one or their family know about this special purchase with a digital notification or a printable certificate you can deliver.

We are proud to offer a special way to honor your loved ones or celebrate their life’s milestones by planting native trees in their name.

Missouri Wildflowers Nursery

Missouri Wildflowers Nursery, established in 1984 and located in Jefferson City, Missouri, specializes in cultivating over 300 species of genetically local native plants—wildflowers, grasses, sedges, shrubs, vines, ferns, and trees. Focused on genetic integrity, the nursery grows plants within one generation of wild-harvested stock, ensuring regional authenticity. They offer both seeds and potted plants via retail, mail order, and wholesale channels, grownative. org. Open year-round for orders—with in-person store hours Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sundays noon–5 p.m.—they support wildlife gardens and conservation efforts through educational materials and expert staff. Visit www.mowildflowers.net for more information.

All plantings will be in new conservation areas next to our existing restoration sites so their tree will be part of a much larger natural area. Every tree will be native to the region and appropriate for the habitat where they are planted.

Remembrance Forest will be managed by experienced habitat restoration professionals, protected forever through a dedicated conservation easement, sustained through an endowment fund that guarantees longterm care, and any trees that do not survive within the first five years will be replaced. Each tree serves as an enduring tribute and your purchase contributes to the restoration of natural habitats in the heartland of America.

We want you to be a part of that process and hope that you and your loved ones will feel the same peace, connection to nature, and hope for the future that this project gives us. Please visit us at www. remembranceforest.com.

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

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

Lon Brockmeier

Katherine Brookshire

Donald R. Brown

* Scott Brundage

Bill Bryan

Misty Bryan

Alan Buchanan

Connie Burkhardt

Dan Burkhardt

Charles Burwick

Brandon Butler

Randy Campbell

Brian Canaday

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

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

* Mary Louise Fisher

Howard Fisher

Andrew Fleming

Brian Fleming

* Charles Fleming

David Fleming

Howard Fleming

Kailey Fleming

Lori Fleming

Matt Fleming

Paula Fleming

Sara Fleming

Bob Fry

Manley Fuller

David Galat

Gene Gardner

Matt Gaunt

Jason Gibbs

Timothy Gordon

Blake Gornick

David Graber

Tim Grace

Jody Graff

Richard & Sally Graham

* 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

Jessica Hayes

* Susan Hazelwood

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

* Mike Huffman

Wilson Hughes

Larry Hummel

* Patricia Hurster

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

* 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

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

Bill Lockwood

Leroy Logan

Christine Logan - Hollis

Bob Lorance

Ike Lovan

Wayne Lovelace

Kimberley LovelaceHainsfurther

Jim Low

Mark Loyd

Mary Lyon

Emily Lute-Wilbers

Martin MacDonald

Michael Mansell

Steve Maritz

Danny Marshall

Brenda Martien

Larry Martien

Edward Martin

John Mauzey

Cydney Mayfield

Bill McCully

Chip McGeehan

Teresa McGeehan

Justin McGuire

Nathan "Shags" McLeod

Jon McRoberts

Richard Mendenhall

Tom Mendenhall

Donna Menown

John "Mitch" Mertens

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

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

Tessa Poolman

Jerry Presley

Albert Price

Nick Prough

Kirk Rahm

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

Don Schultehenich

Deb Schultehenrich

Tyler Schwartze

* Ronald Schwartzmeyer

Timothy Schwent

Travis W. Scott

George Seek

Arlene Segal

* E. Sy Seidler

* Sara Seidler

Joshua Shadwick

Anita Siegmund

Emily Sinnott

Douglas Smentkowski

Gary & Susanna Smith

Zachary Smith

* M.W. Sorenson

* Ed Stegner

Jeff Stegner

Everett Stokes

William Stork Jr.

Robert Stout

Winifred Stribling

Norm Stucky

Mary Stuppy

* Mark Sullivan

Jacob Swafford

Jim Talbert

Norman Tanner

Stephen Taylor

Travis Taylor

Richard Thom

Don Thomas

Tim Thompson

Jim Thornburg

* Jeff Tillman

Robert Tompson

Mike Torres

Matt Tucker

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

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

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

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

Spotlight on the Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance (LOWA)

The Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance (LOWA) was founded in 2006 in response to the growing pollution crisis affecting watersheds across the nation. Inspired to take a proactive approach to protecting their local environment, LOWA’s founders, including Executive Director Donna Swall and President Caroline Toole, established the organization with a clear mission: To preserve, protect, and improve the Lake of the Ozarks watershed, its waters, and natural resources while maintaining our economic, social, and environmental health.

LOWA works tirelessly to uphold this mission and keep the lake healthy. The organization thrives thanks to the countless hours contributed by volunteers and staff, as well as generous sponsorships and donations from individuals, businesses, and community partners. Promoting the need to protect the watershed is especially critical at Lake of the Ozarks due to two key factors: continued growth and development, and the region’s unique karst topography.

Rapid development around the lake brings several environmental challenges: land clearing for homes and businesses; increased waste in landfills and from sewer/ septic systems; more boating activity, which contributes to shoreline erosion; and higher traffic volumes, leading to more pollutants and debris on roads.

These pressures are compounded by the area’s karst landscape, which features rocky terrain with limited soil. This makes it difficult for water and nutrients to be absorbed naturally, increasing the risk of pollutants entering the lake through erosion and stormwater runoff.

LOWA has a unique responsibility and challenge since, unlike many lakes managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lake of the Ozarks is privately owned. This makes outreach to individual property owners especially important. LOWA encourages practices like Low Impact Landscaping (LILs) and regular septic tank pump-outs to reduce soil erosion and pollution.

LOWA’s work is guided by six key focus areas: Water Quality; Wastewater; Lake Safety; Education & Outreach; LOWA LILs; and Recycling.

From May through September, LOWA collects weekly water samples to monitor trends and detect any significant changes. The organization also hosts native plant sales and an annual shoreline and community clean-up event. Educational programs cover topics such as proper septic system maintenance, shoreline and soil stabilization, and overall environmental stewardship.

Looking ahead, LOWA is committed to correcting the mistakes of the past, maintaining a healthy lake today, and promoting smart, sustainable growth for future generations.

Affiliate Organizations

Anglers of Missouri

Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives

Basshole Bass Club

Bass Slammer Tackle

Burroughs Audubon Society of Greater Kansas City

Capital City Fly Fishers

Chesterfield Citizens Committee for the Environment

Columbia Audubon Society

Conservation Foundation of Missouri Charitable Trust

Dark Sky Missouri

Deer Creek Sportsman Club

Duckhorn Outdoors Adventures

Festus-Crystal City Conservation Club

Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri

Forest Releaf of Missouri

Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Gateway Sustainable Farmers Alliance

Greater Ozarks Audubon Society

Greenbelt Land Trust of Mid-Missouri

Greenway Network, Inc.

James River Basin Partnership

L-A-D Foundation

Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance

Land Learning Foundation

Legends of Conservation

Magnificent Missouri

Mid Mo Prescribed Burn Assn.

Mid-Missouri Outdoor Dream

Mid-Missouri Trout Unlimited

Midwest Diving Council

Mississippi Valley Duck

Hunters Association

Missouri Association of Meat Processors

Missouri B.A.S.S. Nation

Missouri Bear Foundation

Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative

Missouri Birding Society

Missouri Bluebird Society

Missouri Bow Hunters Association

Missouri Caves & Karst Conservancy

Missouri Chapter of the American Fisheries Society

Missouri Chapter of the Wildlife Society

Missouri Coalition for the Environment

Missouri Conservation Corps

Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation

Missouri Conservation Pioneers

Missouri Consulting Foresters Association

Missouri Disabled Sportsmen

Missouri Ducks Unlimited- State Council

Missouri Environmental Education Association

Missouri Environmental Education Projects

Missouri Forest Products Association

Missouri Grouse Chapter of QUWF

Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation

Missouri Master Naturalist

- Great Rivers Chapter

Missouri Master Naturalist

- Hi Lonesome Chapter

Missouri Master Naturalist

- Osage Trails Chapter

Missouri Master Naturalist

- Springfield Plateau Chapter

Missouri National Wild Turkey Federation

Missouri Native Seed Association

Missouri Outdoor Communicators

Missouri Park & Recreation Association

Missouri Parks Association

Missouri Prairie Foundation

Missouri River Bird Observatory

Missouri River Relief

Missouri Rock Island Trail, Inc.

Missouri Rural Water Association

Missouri Smallmouth Alliance

Missouri Society of American Foresters

Missouri Soil & Water Conservation Society-Show-Me Chapter

Missouri Sport Shooting Association

Missouri State Parks Foundation

Missouri Taxidermist Association

Missouri Trappers Association

Missouri Trout Fishermen's Association

Northside Conservation Federation

Open Space Council of the St. Louis Region

Outdoor Skills of America, Inc.

Ozark Chinquapin Foundation

Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc.

Ozark Land Trust

Ozark Rivers Audubon Chapter

Ozark Riverways Foundation

Ozark Trail Association

Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club

Perry County Sportsman Club

Pomme De Terre Chapter Muskies

Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc.

Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever

Renew Missouri

River Access Coalition

River Bluffs Audubon Society

Scenic Missouri, Inc

Scenic Rivers Invasive Species Partnership (SRISP)

South Side Division CFM

Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers

St. Louis Audubon Society

Stream Teams United Student Air Rifle Program

The Conservation Fund

Tipton Farmers & Sportsman's Club

Tri-Lakes Fly Fishers

Turtle Conservation Group

United Bowhunters of Missouri

Veterans Outdoor Therapy Foundation, Inc

Wild Bird Rehabilitation

Wild Souls Wildlife Rescue Rehabilitation

WildHERness

Wonders of Wildlife

World Bird Sanctuary

Young Professionals Host Family Campout at Prairie Fork

In June, the Conservation Federation of Missouri’s Young Professionals program hosted a memorable Family Camp at the Prairie Fork Conservation Area in Williamsburg. The weekend was filled with outdoor activities, learning, and community engagement. Attendees enjoyed a foraging hike, fishing, a tour of the area’s rich history, and opportunities to connect with others who share a passion for conservation. During the foraging hike led by Kat Brookshire, attendees identified a variety of edible plants, and she shared more than 30 creative recipes that featured these wild ingredients.

Prairie Fork Conservation Area (PFCA), spanning more than 900 acres, was donated by Hilda P. Jones. Her vision for the land was rooted in a deep commitment to conservation and education. She envisioned PFCA as a place to inspire and engage people, especially young people, through hands-on learning experiences. Today, the area serves three key purposes: conservation education, natural resource research, and the restoration and management of native communities.

Mrs. Brookshire shared, “We had a great time, and I had the opportunity to teach about some cool flavor profiles and nutrition of some of my favorite wild plants. I shared recipe ideas for some wonderful, wild food. We ate smartweed and sorrel on our wood fire grilled burgers.”

Join the Young Professionals! With a CFM membership, you're eligible to participate. Visit confedmo.org/youngprofessionals to learn more and view upcoming events.

Micaela Haymaker

4th Annual Founders Circle & Life Member Celebration

On Saturday, June 28, 2025, CFM hosted its 4th Annual Founders Circle & Life Member Celebration from 3:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. The exclusive gathering brought together CFM Life Members and Founders Circle honorees for an afternoon of fellowship, enrichment, and culture.

Attendees enjoyed a self-guided tour of America’s National Churchill Museum, located beneath the historic Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury, which was reconstructed stone-by-stone on the Westminster campus. The tour offered insight into the museum’s world-class collection—including exhibits on Winston Churchill’s life and legacy, the famed “Breakthrough” sculpture crafted from a section of the Berlin Wall, and interactive galleries focused on World War II and Churchillian leadership. This event was chosen to explore what was happening in the world 90 years ago, as a precursor to this year’s 90th anniversary celebration.

Following the museum visit, guests gathered for dinner and drinks, alongside special remarks from the Museum’s Director & Chief Curator, who reflected on the institution’s mission and ongoing preservation initiatives. The event provided a unique opportunity to engage with fellow conservation advocates in an atmosphere that blended natural stewardship and historical reflection.

As a free event reserved for Life and Founders Circle Members, the celebration underscored both CFM’s commitment to recognizing dedicated supporters and its broader mission to conserve Missouri’s outdoor legacy for future generations. It also highlighted Westminster College’s role as home to a significant national museum honoring Churchill’s enduring global impact.

Michelle Gabelsberger

Looking Back Missouri’s Conservation History

Werner O. Nagel: The First Student to Graduate from MU with a Degree in Wildlife

Although there was some semblance of a Forestry Program at MU as early as 1870, the fish and wildlife program didn’t come about until the early 1930’s.

And, it may have not happened then if it hadn’t been for Werner Nagel.

Born in 1905 in Holstein, Missouri, Werner came to the University of Missouri in 1929, where he studied biology and education. Not satisfied with the way things were going for him, he met with Dr. Winterton C. Curtis, head of the Zoology Department, to explore getting a degree in wildlife.

There was no such program at the time, so Dr. Curtis suggested that he take his request to Dr. Rudolf Bennitt, Associate Professor of Zoology. Together, they mapped out a series of classes that would allow Werner to obtain a degree in wildlife conservation. Thus, the teaching of wildlife courses at MU began in 1931 with the initiation of classes in ornithology, ecology and principles of wildlife conservation.

Werner was awarded a BS degree in wildlife conservation in 1932 and became the first graduate of a wildlife program at MU. (He went on to get an MA in education in 1933.)

After graduation, he collaborated with Dr. Bennitt to conduct a survey of Missouri’s game, furbearer and predatory species with recommendations for their management that resulted in a 215-page publication entitled, “A Survey of the Resident Game and Furbearers of Missouri.”

Nagel joined the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in 1941 as a biologist in charge of quail and partridge stocking programs (after working with the National Park Service from 1934-1935 and instructing in zoology at MU from 1936-1938).

He co-authored the first Missouri game survey and wrote Conservation Contrasts in 1970 (which was basically a review of what had happened since the earlier study and a look to the future) and the best-selling Cy Littlebee’s Guide to Cooking Fish and Game.

Werner had several firsts in his career – First student to graduate in wildlife at Mizzou, first Editor of the Wildlife Monographs, introduced and taught a course in writing for wildlife students, initiated the Jade of Chiefs Award for distinguished service in conservation for the Outdoor Writers of America Association, and was a technical consultant to the Style Manual Committee of the Conference of Biological Editors.

A colleague summed it up by saying, “He was a zoologist by education, a writer by trade and a philosopher by experience.”Werner passed away on June 22, 1974 at age 69.

A Wild Night at Bass Pro: Columbia Game Night Brings Conservation to Life

On Thursday, July 10th, the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) brought a fresh twist to its annual banquet in Columbia at Bass Pro Shops by swapping speeches for scavenger hunts and lectures for laughter. In a bold move to shake up tradition, CFM introduced Columbia Game Night, an interactive evening filled with conservation-themed fun, food, and friendly competition.

The evening kicked off with a scavenger hunt designed to encourage guests to explore the banquet space. Participants followed clues to find conservation-related questions stationed throughout the area. Correct answers were turned in for a chance to win prizes, including CFM t-shirts and gift bags donated by the Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB).

After warming up their brains, guests formed teams for a round of “Name That Track”, where tables worked together to match animal tracks to Missouri wildlife species. The aptly named “Birds of a Feather” team stood out as the only group to score a perfect 10 out of 10.

The energy continued to build as attendees sat down to a hearty dinner featuring pulled pork and chicken, parmesan potatoes, salad, baked beans, and rolls. With plates cleared and appetites satisfied, it was time for trivia. Teams faced off in a challenging round covering CFM history, Missouri conservation facts, and outdoor knowledge. “The Trackers” rose to the occasion and took the trivia crown.

Then came one of the most memorable moments of the night, animal calls with CFM board member Ralph Duren. Guests were given a word bank and asked to identify a range of animal calls performed live by Ralph. His incredibly realistic impressions of animals like the Red Fox, Bald Eagle, and Spring Peeper had the room captivated.

The Zimmermans team got 10 of 12 calls and, in a thrilling upset, leapt to the top of the leaderboard to win the evening’s overall title of first-ever Columbia Game Night champions.The winning team consisted of: Nathan “Shags” McLeod, Savannah Light, Brian Wear, Tracy Wear, Trey Dawson, Tim Flanner, Jennifer Hoggatt, Roy Hoggatt, Justin McGuire, and Cathy Gerlette.

Throughout the evening, guests also enjoyed a silent auction, and thanks to St. James Winery, wine was available courtesy of their gracious employee Brandon, who served with a smile.

This unforgettable night wouldn't have been possible without our generous sponsors. Bass Pro Shops proudly supported the event by donating the venue and sponsoring a table. Zimmer Communications and Tiger Hotel also sponsored tables.

Columbia Game Night was more than a change of pace, it was a celebration of Missouri’s outdoors, full of laughter, learning, and connection. CFM looks forward to continuing this new tradition and engaging members and newcomers alike in fun and meaningful ways.

Trisha Ely

Owned by the members they serve, Missouri’s electric cooperatives do more than provide reliable and a ordable electricity. They are active in their communities, concerned for the well-being of their neighbors and devoted to the rural way of life that makes the Show-Me State a special place to live, work and play.

Missouri’s electric cooperatives are dedicated to protecting the land, air and water resources important to you and your quality of life.

Learn more at moelectriccoops.com

Lest We Forget: Days of Future Past

Happy Anniversary, CFM. Ninety years, eh?

The Granite Anniversary and you certainly have endured. Still rock solid. It’s been a long haul, and now is a great time to take a breath, even if just for a minute. Go ahead, relax and enjoy your accomplishments. Give one another a hug of gratitude. Ponder and reflect on those who came before, giving so much. Speak their names one more time in appreciation. Celebrate the lives and spirit of those who no longer walk among us. Embrace the newcomers. Raise a toast, clink your glasses and cheer. You deserve this moment.

The Spanish-American philosopher, George Santayana wrote, “History is a pack of lies about events that never happened told by people who weren't there. . . . History is always written wrong, and so always needs to be rewritten.” I get his point, but fortunately, your history is no lie nor has it accumulated enough dust to obscure recall. No revisions have been necessary. Yet time marches on and it’s good to bring forward the sonnets and incantations of the past, so lest we forget.

I know you’ve heard the other quote by Santayana, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." This is wisdom. So as you speak to the grandchildren and great grandchildren of the progenitors, be sure to remind us of what history we are trying not to repeat. Tell us again and again, why are we here and why should we stay? Why should we care? Don’t assume everyone knows. The old timers remember but the newcomers certainly do not. If you want folks to stick around, help them understand what’s at stake. Show them their place in your extraordinary history and allow them to create something new built upon the old. Tell them why they are needed.

Remind us again, as Chalie Davidson did in 1985, to truly understand the Federation, “to grasp its collective heart and soul,” you must dig into the philosophy of the membership and deeper still, from Thoreau to Leopold to Stephens and more, looking far beyond committee work and policy resolutions. That’s where you’ll find the “who, what, and why” of CFM.

We recently witnessed the power of the voice when heard in unison, the choir was huge and CFM was there, and I proudly heard you sing. Washington D.C. noticed and one small battle was won. Public land will remain public, mostly, for now. But, lest we forget, what was once only a fight to avoid the “vagaries of partisan politics” is now a continuous defense of an outright assault on conservation institutions and the common good. Whether it be Washington D.C. or Jefferson City, CFM, you must hold the line.

And lest we forget, Roland Hoerr, Nash Buckingham, Edward K. Love, E. Sydney Stephens, Ted Butler, J.T. Montgomery, Charlie Callison, Ed Stegner, Charles Davidson, Charlie Schwartz, Andy Runge, or Glen Chambers, or Dick Wood, and the many others who have come and gone.

So, CFM, celebrate your 90th then get back to work. Your past President, Howard Wood once reminded us, “A heritage of conservation remains our (your) pledge and our (your) purpose.” Do not think for a moment there’s nothing left to do, to build, to defend. It takes many to construct an organization but only one firebug to burn it down. Remain committed, vigilant, relevant, and nimble.

The future of conservation in Missouri is uncertain. The achievements of the past aside, your urgency, our urgency and pace must quicken. A new conservation movement is beckoning beyond the conspicuous traditions. This movement must separate itself from the comfort of the past and you must lead once again. The battle for conservation of our precious natural resources and all they embody is forever.

And lest we forget, Theodore Roosevelt’s message still rings true. "The 'greatest good for the greatest number' applies to the number within the womb of time, compared to which those now alive form but an insignificant fraction. Our duty to the whole, including the unborn generations, bids us restrain an unprincipled present-day minority from wasting the heritage of these unborn generations. The movement for the conservation of wild life and the larger movement for the conservation of all our natural resources are essentially democratic in spirit, purpose, and method."

On September 10, 1935 the Conservation and Restoration Federation was created. And so, when you stand inside the Tiger Hotel on that date in this year, the place where it all started, close your eyes and listen for the voices, their spirit will be in the room and the echoing cheer you hear will be theirs. Happy Anniversary CFM! See you in ten years.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Celebrating the Legacy of Share the Harvest

Anew “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” display now stands proudly at the Boone County Nature School in Columbia, showcasing the extraordinary impact of Missouri’s Share the Harvest program. This powerful exhibit highlights how hunters, meat processors, and generous sponsors come together to support families in need while also ensuring a healthy and well-managed deer population across the state.

The dedication ceremony, held on June 27, 2025, was a celebration of both the program and the man whose vision brought it to life, Dennis R. Ballard. As former executive director of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM), Ballard was the driving force behind the inception of Share the Harvest. His leadership and foresight laid the groundwork for what would become one of Missouri’s most impactful conservation and community aid efforts.

The display pays tribute to Dennis’s legacy, recognizing his pivotal role in launching a movement that has now donated over 6 million pounds of venison to Missouri families in need. His efforts were formally supported in a resolution passed at the 1992 CFM Annual Convention, held at the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark. The resolution called for the establishment of a statewide program enabling deer hunters to donate venison to voluntary agencies that feed the hungry, marking a significant turning point in Missouri’s conservation and humanitarian landscape.

Guest speakers at the dedication included CFM Executive Director Tyler Schwartze, Capt. Steven Kistner, Brian Flowers, and members of Dennis Ballard’s family. Their remarks reflected both the history and future of Share the Harvest, as well as the ways it continues to unite Missourians through the values of stewardship and service.

Each of the speakers discussed the importance of the program and what Dennis’ legacy—and the contributions of many others who helped start the program—truly mean in supporting neighbors in need. Tyler Schwartze spoke about the addition of Snack Sticks to the Buddy Pack Program, which has provided youth with a healthy protein snack. This became possible after a law was changed to allow the donation of shelf-stable venison, not just frozen products.

The ceremony concluded with a symbolic ribbon cutting held in Dennis’s memory, a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy continues to feed thousands across Missouri. To learn more about Share the Harvest, or to donate to the program, go to confedmo.org/share-the-harvest/

Reflecting on the Impact of Conservation on my Life

Art Province, a conservation agent in Mississippi County during the 1960s, approached me and my girlfriend at Big Oak State Park. I was fishing. My girlfriend was not, yet I had two fishing rods in the boat. Agent Province asked for our fishing license. I produced mine while explaining that my girlfriend was not fishing. I swallowed hard, hoping that Agent Province believed my story. He checked my license, smiled and said, “All seems in order. Enjoy your fishing.”

I was not only relieved that he didn’t question my story, but greeted us in a friendly, professional manner, checked my license quickly, and bid us a good day. That first time experience with a conservation agent had a lasting impression and I still vividly remember meeting him 60 years later. Unknowingly, Agent Province set the course for the rest of my life, as I developed a keen interest in conservation and a career in the outdoors.

A couple of years later, I entered the University of Missouri School of Forestry, where I studied an outdoor recreation option. I completed a B.S. in Park Management and an M.S. in Outdoor Education. I, too, was privileged to carry petitions for the Design for Conservation, which was formally presented as the "Design for Conservation" proposal in a special edition of the Missouri Conservationist magazine in September 1971.

To implement the "Design for Conservation", a citizen-led initiative petition was launched to place a constitutional amendment on the ballot in 1976. This amendment called for a dedicated sales tax to fund conservation efforts. The petition garnered 208,000 signatures, more than double the minimum required.

The initiative ultimately passed in the November 1976 election, leading to the implementation of the Design for Conservation and its funding mechanism, the one-eighth of one percent conservation sales tax.

The story of the Design for Conservation truly began in 1936, with the passage of a constitutional amendment that created the Missouri Department of Conservation. Prior to that time Missouri had a highly political, nonprofessional fish and game department. This constitutional amendment took the old fish and game department out of politics by creating a non-partisan 4 person commission, on a bi-partisan basis, appointed by the Governor for 6-year staggered terms.

The constitution vested the control, management, restoration, conservation and regulation of all bird, fish, game, wildlife and forest resources in the Missouri Conservation Commission, and earmarked hunting and fishing license funds, and other monies generated for conservation. It made possible a continuing, professionally based program of conservation that brought wildlife back from dismal lows in the 1930s to its current relative abundance. But what about the future? This concern, on the part of the professional staff, was brought to the attention of the Commission, which approved a study of present programs and future needs.

In 1969, the Missouri Department of Conservation was evaluated by three nationally known conservationists. The team consisted of A. S. Leopold of the University of California at Berkeley, I. K. Fox, then of the University of Wisconsin, and C. H. Callison, then executive vice president of the National Audubon Society. The team's findings were published in June 1970 as the Missouri Conservation Program Report. The study team stated that the organization and programs were excellent and provided a good foundation for future actions. However, the committee felt that we should broaden our programs to include the conservation of all wildlife, including non-game species, and to provide for outdoor recreation outside the traditional realm of hunting and fishing.

To accomplish this would require a source of funds far beyond hunting and fishing license fees. With the belief that funding was available somewhere, the Department developed a proposal to provide a more thorough and effective conservation program. The proposal was called "Design for Conservation," and it appeared as a special edition of the Missouri Conservationist magazine in September 1971. An updated version appeared in the August 1975 issue of the same magazine.

The "Design" is a basic program for Missouri's outdoor future-a plan to mitigate the adverse impacts of modern development. It is a long-range plan to expand Missouri's wildlife conservation program and provide more outdoor recreational opportunities. It proposes the acquisition of high-quality uplands, wetlands, prairies, forests and natural areas. It calls for the construction of community lakes, the development of interpretive centers, the acquisition of stream access sites and additional hatcheries and trout management areas. All of the public services of the Conservation Department are to be expanded. They include providing advice, service and materials for private wildlife, pond and forest management, and increased law enforcement, educational services and research.

Those are all programs we were already engaged in, but the emphasis was expanded from harvest to wider uses and enjoyment of the outdoors, to the so-called "nonconsumptive" activities.

To study ways to fund this program, the Department employed a private consultant, followed by the University of Missouri. Their studies, titled "Revenue Sources: Present and Potential" and "Analysis: Two Potential Revenue Sources," suggested a number of potential funding sources, ranging from various taxes to bond issues.

At a public meeting called by the Department to make public the study committee's report and the Department's proposals, a citizen group was formed-"the Citizens' Committee for Conservation." Working closely with the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the group launched an initiative petition drive in 1971. The petition called for an amendment to the state constitution providing that carbonated soft drinks would be taxed at the rate of one cent per 16 ounces, with the money earmarked for use by the Department of Conservation. Enough Missourians signed the petitions to put the issue on the ballot in 1971, but the effort failed because of a legal technicality. The proposed constitutional amendment, which appeared on the petitions lacked an "enacting clause," and the state Supreme Court ruled the issue could not go on the ballot.

The effort languished until the Citizens Committee came back in 1975 with a new initiative petition. Based on a more recent study of the taxes most acceptable to Missourians, it called for a constitutional amendment with an addition to the state sales tax of one-eighth of one percent, with the money to be earmarked for use by the Department of Conservation. The state sales tax currently was 3 percent. Signatures collected on this petition drive had to be those of registered voters due to a new state law. The group collected nearly 200,000 signatures, and the issue was certified for the 1976 general election ballot.

I once again carried petitions for the Design for Conservation. The measure passed by about 30,000 votes. I have been a benefactor of the Design for Conservation for my entire adult life. Too, it enabled me to enjoy a 55-year career as an outdoor communicator. Of the 6,000-plus articles I’ve written, 80 percent were about the Missouri Outdoors.

Much of the information for this article came from a speech by Herbert S. Schwartz, an MDC Media Specialist, at the Annual Conference. S.E. Assoc. Fish & Wildlife Agencies.

Bill Cooper

If The World Had a Front Porch

Iwas returning from a camping/fishing trip one day recently and decided to drive by where the farmhouse I was born in on my Grandma and Grandpa’s farm once stood. The house, the old barn, the smokehouse, the chicken coop, and the outhouse were no longer there. They were torn down many years ago.

I got out of my truck and started walking around the bare land. There was nothing left that anyone would ever know this had once been a place where many happy memories were made. As I walked, I could see in my mind’s eye everything that was once there.

As I kept walking, I heard the sound of gurgling water. I walked up the hill behind where the old barn stood. The old spring I used to haul water for drinking, baths, and Grandma’s cooking was still there. We also stored milk from our Jersey cow named Daisy in its cold water. I filled my cupped hand with its water and sipped a drink just as I used to do many years ago.

On my way back to my truck, I stopped again where the old farmhouse had been. It remembered the big front porch. We spent lots of time there in every season but winter when I was a kid growing up. During the summer we spent time on that front porch at the end of the day after all the chores were done. There was no air conditioning back then. Even if there was, we had no electricity.

Grandpa would light a kerosene lantern and whittle on a piece of wood while smoking his pipe and sitting in his rocking chair. I still have that chair. Grandma would read her Bible by the light of the lantern, or mend clothing by hand with needle and thread.

Sometimes, on that front porch, I would skin squirrels, rabbits, a raccoon, or quail that I got with Grandpa’s old shotgun or from my trap line. Sometime I would clean frogs or fish.

Chickens would be walking around in the yard. Their dogs, Trixie and Blackie, would lay on the front porch worn out from their busy day chasing squirrels and rabbits. When I was younger, I would run around catching fireflies and put them in a Mason jar with holes in the lid. We listened to the sounds of whip-poor-wills and owls hooting.

It was hard to leave the memories that day, but we had church that night and I knew my wife would be waiting. I got back in my truck and started toward home. On the way, I passed by the town where I spent my teenage years after Grandpa died and we left the farm.

The old main street was still there but none of the businesses I remember back then. The cafe, drug store, hardware store, post office, barber shop, doctor’s office, and pool hall were no longer there.

South of Main Street was the school I attended for all twelve years. It was now used for offices for the school district. The high school is across town and a hundred times bigger than the one I attended. The Junior High and several elementary schools are scattered around the town. It had grown into a big city I hardly recognized.

Fast food choices, shopping centers, and housing developments were everywhere.

I decided to drive by some of the old houses we lived in before I left to serve our country and start my own life. Driving through some of the old neighborhoods I could still recognize, I noticed the houses all had front porches like we did on the farm.

It was a time before televisions and computers dominated lives and kept people inside. A time before a porch in the front got much smaller and people built backyard patios or decks with tall, wooden fences around them. Today, most people don’t even know their neighbors on the other side of that fence. We stay in our little world.

It was a time when we did not worry about crime. It was a time when life did not seem so hectic and sometimes scary. I don’t think we were as busy back then. It was a time when people would sit on front porches reading the newspaper or the Bible, playing checkers, or talking face to face with each other instead of by smartphone.

During Summer they would fan themselves and try to stay cool under the shade of the front porch. If neighbors or someone else were out walking or drove by and stopped, they were invited to sit on the front porch and enjoy a glass of tea or lemonade. Maybe even a bowl of homemade ice cream or a plate of sliced watermelon.

They enjoyed their front porches in the Spring as they watched flowers blooming and listened to birds singing. When Fall arrived they would sit on their front porch enjoying the colors of the leaves. Sometimes in Winter they were on their front porch watching the snow fall.

Women talked of kids and grandkids, what was happening at church, shared Bible verses, and showed off their flower or vegetable garden. Most of the men were World War II or Korean War veterans. There were always a few war stories shared. Politics was a topic of conversation but not like it is today in our divided nation.

There were times when I was a teenager and I would come walking by and was invited to sit with folks on their front porch. The women would ask how Mom, Dad, and my siblings were doing. They wanted to know if I was going to college after high school. They always asked me if I was going to church.

The men wanted to know how my basketball or baseball season was going. They would ask if I was going to join the military. They all knew I loved the outdoors and would share their memories of hunting and fishing stories with me.

They would also ask about my latest hunting and fishing adventures, of which there were many to tell them about. They knew I loved to go gigging for frogs on summer nights and would hint to me how much they liked fried frog legs, hoping I would offer to bring them some. They would also tell me how much they liked fried crappie and fried sucker fish. There were times I would take some of both to them. They loved it when I did that.

Later in life, my wife and I bought a cabin in the woods on a bluff. It had a front porch where we could see the creek below and the waterfall cascading down the hill. We spent many hours on that front porch enjoying family, friends, and hummingbirds.

When I think about it, some of my best memories came from sitting on front porches. Front porches from those years were where some of life’s greatest moments unfolded for me. I am sure when folks my age think about it they would probably say the same.

The idea for this story has been floating around in my head for quite some time. It started with a song by country singer Tracy Lawrence called If the World Had a Front Porch.

If the world had a front porch like we did back then, we'd still have problems, but we'd all be friends. Treatin' your neighbor like he's your next of kin, wouldn't be gone like the wind. If the world had a front porch like we did back then.

Maybe, we need to get Democrats and Republicans together on a front porch. Maybe, we need to get leaders of other countries together on a front porch. We would probably still have some problems, but maybe we could all strive to be friends. It could help change the world before it is gone like the wind. If only, the world had a front porch like we did back then.

Larry Whiteley

GO WYLD with wildHERness

In June, I had the opportunity to attend the annual GO WYLD event hosted by wildHERness—an affiliate of the Conservation Federation of Missouri and a recipient of a Risberg Grant. Alongside fellow CFM staff member Michelle Gabelsberger and my daughter Hailey Haymaker, we packed our bags, grabbed our tents, and headed into a weekend full of adventure, connection, and empowerment.

GO WYLD is a choose-your-own-adventure weekend designed specifically for women aged 13 and up. With nearly 40 different hands-on classes to choose from, every participant builds a personalized experience based on their own interests. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorswoman or just beginning to explore, the weekend offers something for everyone.

Between the three of us, we learned about blacksmithing, basic handgun use, fur handling, overlanding, digital mapping, basic car maintenance, and making herbal salves. Each class was led by knowledgeable, supportive instructors in a pressure-free environment. It didn’t matter if you were a complete beginner; what mattered was showing up and a willingness to try something new.

wildHERness’s mission is about more than just outdoor skills—it’s about building confidence, independence, and community. They believe in the power of education to remind women that we can—that we are capable, strong, and resourceful.

As Jess Rice, CEO and founder of wildHERness, put it: "GO WYLD is where women remember their strength. The way they show up for themselves and each other, it’s powerful, and it changes you. Each year, we see walls come down, laughter echo through the trees, and women remember what they’re capable of. It’s not just a magical weekend, it’s a return to self.”

There’s something incredibly powerful about being surrounded by women who are learning, laughing, and challenging themselves together. It’s not just about what we did; it’s about how it made us feel. Inspired. Capable. Empowered.

If you're looking for a weekend to reconnect with nature, build new skills, and join a welcoming community of adventurous women, GO WYLD is calling. And trust me, you’ll be glad you answered.

Micaela Haymaker

Over 120 attendees at GO WYLD. (Photo: GO WYLD)

March 6-8, 2026 In-person

LODGE OF FOUR SEASONS, LAKE OZARK, MISSOURI

Support the Conservation Federation of Missouri through a sponsorship for the 90th Annual Convention. Annual Convention allows conservationists to gather and discuss Missouri’s natural resources with the goal of bettering the outdoors for future generations. bald eagle sponsorship

Presenting sponsor of Saturday Logo on agenda, website, signage, and all printed material

Inclusion in press release & media mentions $12,000

Opportunity to speak at Saturday night banquet Social Media Recognition (Pre & Post Event)

10 Tickets to Saturday night banquet & Educational Breakout Sessions

Presenting sponsor of Friday night awards banquet

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Inclusion in press release & media mentions

deer sponsorship

(1 AVAILABLE)

Presenting sponsor of Affiliate Luncheon

Special acknowledgement at Affiliate Luncheon Logo on agenda, website, signage, and all printed material

(5 AVAILABLE)

Opportunity to speak at Friday night award’s ceremony Social Media Recognition (Pre & Post Event)

10 Tickets to Saturday Night Banquet & Educational Breakout Sessions

Opportunity to speak during the Affiliate Luncheon

6 Tickets to Saturday night banquet & Educational Breakout Sessions

$1,000 value of product for Auctions and $1,500 cash Sponsor of the Breakout sessions Logo on agenda, website, and printed material $2,500

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5 Tickets to Saturday night banquet & Educational Breakout Sessions

$2,000

Sponsorships include 3 tickets to Saturday night banquet and educational breakout sessions. Business name on agenda and website. Choose to donate $2,000 cash or $1000 cash and $1000 in product. Various opportunities to sponsor:

Young Professional Social Sponsor (1 AVAILABLE) Logo on Social Signage

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Sponsorships include 3 tickets to Saturday night banquet and educational breakout sessions. Business name on agenda and website. Choose to donate $1,000 cash or $500 cash and $500 in product. Various opportunities to sponsor:

Nametag/Lanyard Sponsor (1 AVAILABLE) Logo and name on nametags on lanyards

Snack/Break Sponsor (5 AVAILABLE) Logo on Snack/Break Signage

Sponsorships include 2 tickets to Saturday night banquet and business name on agenda and website. Choose to donate $500 cash or $500 in-kind donation. Various opportunities to sponsor:

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Gun Raffle at Saturday Banquet (1 AVAILABLE) Printed Signage

If you are interested in sponsoring our convention, please call Trisha at 573-634-2322 ext. 108 or email tely@confedmo.org

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

MDC welcomes new commissioner Edward Clausen of Centertown

The Missouri Conservation Commission and Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) welcome Edward C. Clausen of Centertown to the Missouri Conservation Commission following his recent appointment by Gov. Mike Kehoe and pending confirmation by the Missouri Senate.

“We’re excited to have Ed’s professional experience and personal passion for conservation on the Commission,” said MDC Director Jason Sumners. “He knows how important the outdoors are to our quality of life in Missouri, including managing private land for wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities on public lands.”

Clausen is a partner at Newman, Comley and Ruth P.C., a law firm specializing in defending medical malpractice claims. He is an active member of several organizations, including the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the Association of Defense Trial Attorneys, and Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He previously served on the board of directors for the Friends of the Eleven Point River. Clausen earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law.

He lives in Centertown with his wife, Debby, and their land adjoins the Roger V. and Viola Wachal Smith Conservation Area.

“I’m humbled and honored to be appointed as a Conservation Commissioner,” Clausen said. “Ours is the premier conservation department in the nation and I’m grateful to the people of Missouri for supporting such a bounty of nature-focused public land for everyone to enjoy.”

He added that the hunting, fishing, floating, hiking, wildlifewatching, and other outdoor opportunities in Missouri are amazing.

“I’ve been to many, many conservation areas around the state and our family did a lot of floating, camping, fishing, and hunting when our three kids were little,” he said. “We still enjoy floating Missouri streams and other outdoor activities with them as adults -- and also now with our grandson, Hudson.”

Clausen and his family also have a history of managing their land for wildlife. They recently cleared cedar trees that were invading several acres along the road and then planted wildflowers. He added that they’ve also done timber-stand improvements over the years and maintain trails on their property.

His ties to nature go back to his childhood and he has shared them with his kids.

“My dad informally showed me how to hunt when I was a kid, but some of the most valuable outdoor learning for me was through MDC’s Hunter Education program,” Clausen explained. “I took the class with my oldest son when he started to hunt decades ago, and it was incredibly helpful.”

Commissioner Clausen was appointed for a six-year term that will expire in 2031. He replaces outgoing commissioner Mark McHenry of Kansas City, whose terms expired July 1. New commissioner Clausen joins Commissioners Margaret F. (Margy) Eckelkamp of Washington, Raymond T. (Ray) Wagner Jr. of Town and Country in St. Louis County, and Steven D. Harrison of Rolla.*

“I also look forward to helping our next generations of conservationists,” Clausen added. “To paraphrase an old quote, ‘Wise are those who plant trees under which they will never sit.’ This future focus applies to fisheries and wildlife conservation as well.”

*Editor's Note: At thetime of printing, this is the most up-to-date information regarding the members of the Commission.

MDC Has New Regulations for Ginseng Dealers and Harvesters

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds ginseng harvesters and dealers of new regulations that become effective July 1. MDC sent letters to registered ginseng dealers with the information late last year after regulations were approved. MDC also provided information to ginseng dealers to share with harvesters.

Under the new regulations, a Ginseng Dealer Permit will be required to buy and sell ginseng in Missouri starting July 1. The permit will cost $100 for a Missouri resident and $300 for a non-resident. Only holders of a Ginseng Dealer Permit may buy uncertified ginseng. New regulations will also require all ginseng root sold by a dealer to be certified. A dealer may possess uncertified ginseng root that has been purchased but must certify the root with an MDC conservation agent before selling it. The new regulations also add a $25 fee per root certification.

A Ginseng Harvest Permit will also be required for harvesting ginseng in Missouri. Permits will become available starting July 1. There is an exemption for landowners where they can get a no-cost Landowner Harvest Authorization Number if they want to give away or sell ginseng root. Landowners will need to contact MDC Ginseng Program Coordinator Malissa Briggler at Malissa.Briggler@mdc.mo.gov or 573-522-4115 ext. 3151.

For more information on American ginseng, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/ american-ginseng.

For more information on harvesting ginseng, dealer regulations, and certification instructions, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/about-us/aboutregulations/wild-ginseng-harvest-regulations.

Katy Trail – West Management Section MISSOURI STATE PARKS

Each of Missouri’s 93 state parks is exceptional. To help maintain that exceptional status, Missouri State Parks’ mission is to preserve and interpret the state’s most outstanding natural landscapes and cultural landmarks, and to provide outstanding recreational opportunities compatible with those resources. Katy Trail State Park, or the Katy, fits all three parts of the mission. Journey with us from west to east along the Katy to gain a better understanding and appreciation of the world-famous trail.

Katy Trail State Park, as a whole, stretches from Clinton to Machens for a total of 240 miles; however, due to the trail’s length, it was divided into four management sections to help with efficient trail maintenance and operations. The west section starts in Clinton and ends just west of the Pilot Grove trailhead for a total of 61.2 miles. Each section has its own team, and for the west, there are three maintenance workers, one assistant superintendent and one park superintendent. Seasonal staff help the maintenance team, generally throughout the spring and summer months, and contractors assist with several of the trailhead’s biweekly mowings during the on-season months, April through October. The west section’s base of operations is at Knob Noster State Park, the closest state park in proximity to this Katy section.

Within Sedalia, the cooperative agreements extend to the City of Sedalia. Missouri State Parks and the City of Sedalia work in tandem from the Sedalia Depot to Boonville Street to make certain the city’s portion is well-maintained. Through a Recreational Trails Program grant, the city was able to create a concrete sidewalk for part of their section, which doubles as the Katy through a portion of Sedalia. The rest of the city’s portion matches the traditional rock surface seen along the remainder of the Katy. While the city maintains the stretch of trail, state parks’ team helps the city with consistency along their section.

Cooperative agreements are also in place with the communities the Katy travels through, such as Clinton, Calhoun and Windsor. Each of those communities have long-standing agreements to help better maintain the trail. Through the agreements, the communities assist with mowing and trimming their particular trailheads, as well as assistance with funding the utilities, such as water and sewer service for the flush restrooms. Such agreements are vital to the efficiency and success of the Katy.

The Sedalia Heritage Foundation has been long-standing and unique partner with Missouri State Parks. The Sedalia MKT Depot was in significant disrepair until the late 1990s. With the infusion of necessary funds, the 1896 MKT Depot was restored. Once a primary hub of train traffic, it now serves as a popular destination for Katy visitors, as well as an Affiliate Welcome Center for the State of Missouri.

A museum and gift shop within the Depot allow for visitors to learn more about Sedalia and Katy Trail history as well as purchase a souvenir to help remind them of their visit.

Horseback riding is allowed along nearly all the west management section. From Clinton to Sedalia at the Missouri State Fairgrounds, three user groups – hikers, bicyclists and equestrians – can enjoy time on the trail. Always remember, hikers and bicyclists yield to equestrian users. Not far west from the fairgrounds, Katy visitors will witness prairie restoration efforts along either side of the trail’s surface. While the prairie corridor is relatively narrow, the efforts are illustrated by the trail’s enhanced natural resources through tree removal, prescribed fire, and invasive species removal. Wildflowers and pollinators abound in long stretches between Green Ridge and Clinton.

Just west of Green Ridge, Katy visitors will see the only shelter directly adjacent to the trail surface. At Mile Post 242.6 -- the highest point of the Katy at an elevation of 955 feet – park staff constructed a small shelter to replicate the information depot structure visitors will see at a typical trailhead. Park staff requested the addition of the shelter in 2023, and in between their normal duties, the shelter was finished in time for its official dedication ceremony in late February 2025. The shelter was named in honor of Darrin Brown who retired as an original member of the Katy Trail west team. Darrin’s legacy is realized by the reminder at High Point.

A final stop on our journey along the west section concludes at the Windsor crossroads. Windsor has always served as busy hub within the west section, yet with the addition of the Rock Island Spur on Dec. 10, 2016, the city’s resources shone even brighter. The community embraced the additional 47.5 miles of trail leading west to Pleasant Hill. After years of success as part of the Katy Trail, the Rock Island Spur shifted to an official state park status on June 30, 2023, as Rock Island Trail State Park. An additional 144 miles of Rock Island Trail is slated for development east of Windsor.

And so ends the first leg of a four-part journey along the Katy Trail. The trail is world-renowned for its wellmaintained corridor, beautiful vistas, fascinating cultural legacy, and a safe trip away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Communities, such as Windsor, Clinton and Sedalia, have embraced the Katy as a vital component of their own legacy. What was once a thriving railroad is now a thriving trail welcoming anyone seeking a new adventure. Happy trails!

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Road trip. We didn’t choose the perfect playlist. Or program the GPS. But we did fuel the car that made you realize there are no wrong turns, only new adventures. When the energy you invest in life meets the energy we fuel it with, amazing journeys happen.

Bill White Hired as Grassland Program Coordinator

The Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) welcomed Bill White as the new Grassland Program Coordinator. This newly established position, created in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), will coordinate activities of the newly formed Missouri Native Grasslands Collaborative (MoNGC).

The MoNGC is a network of diverse organizations, agencies, and individuals dedicated to supporting native grasslands by preserving remnant prairies and expanding planted native grasslands for working lands and wildlife, while also sustaining rural economies and healthy communities. Through coordinated efforts focused on grassland conservation, MoNGC can amplify our collective impact to benefit the ecological, urban, and rural communities that depend on an ecosystem that once covered 33% of our state.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bill to the CFM team,” said Tyler Schwartze, Executive Director of the Conservation Federation of Missouri. “His depth of knowledge and experience, particularly regarding native grasses in Missouri, is truly unparalleled. Bill is highly respected across the conservation community and regarded as a leading expert. His dedication and passion will expand our impact in Missouri’s native grassland systems beyond what we ever imagined.”

Raised on a grass-based dairy farm in southeast Nebraska and now a Missouri landowner, Bill is a lifelong conservationist, committed to improving the state’s natural resources. His extensive career with MDC, focused on private lands and community conservation, has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to engage a broad range of partners across conservation, agriculture, and urban sectors. Bill holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from the University of Nebraska.

“It is exciting to see the passion that Missourians across the state have for our native grasslands, whether they’re cattle producers, hunters, or naturalists,” Bill shared. “With the support of the Collaborative, I want to build on that momentum and help advance the recommendations to expand and enhance Missouri’s grassland conservation efforts.”

Bill will work closely with the MoNGC and its Steering Committee to implement strategies for improving grassland conservation across the state and to promote the importance of native grasslands to all Missourians.

In his free time, Bill enjoys working on the farm, gardening, hunting bobwhite quail, and spending time outdoors with his 10 grandchildren.

Missouri Native Grasslands Collaborative Kicked Off in April

The Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) has played a major role in bringing new emphasis to protecting and expanding Missouri's native grasslands. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), CFM, and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) hosted the 2024 Native Grassland Summit with over 325 attendees.

The summit hosts then followed up with a Grassland Partner Workshop, which included approximately 25 partners, to refine recommendations and continue advancing a native grassland emphasis.

As a result of this workshop, MDC, NRCS, and CFM began the process of forming the Missouri Native Grasslands Collaborative (MoNGC). Partners held an election to form a Steering Committee in March, and the Committee was installed on April 3 in Cole Camp, MO, with about 30 partner staff in attendance.

New Steering Committee members include:

• Jef Hodges – National Bobwhite and Grassland Conservation Initiative

• Dave Haubein – Cattle producer

• Megan Buchanan – The Nature Conservancy

• Drew Walters – Farm Service Agency

• Brady Lichtenberg – Missouri Soybean Association

• Brent Vandeloecht – MDC

• Frank Loncarich – MDC

• Amy Hamilton – Missouri Native Seed Association

The members of the Steering Committee represent the broad interests of our grassland partners, including cattle producers, crop producers, recreational landowners, prairie advocates, public land managers, program administrators, native seed producers, and communities. Ex-officio members include:

• Jason Jensen – MDC

• Selma Mascaro – NRCS

• Tyler Schwartze – CFM

The Steering Committee will guide the implementation of priority recommendations from the Grassland Partner Workshop and will form several action teams to help address those recommendations. With funding from MDC, the Steering Committee hired Bill White as the new Grassland Program Coordinator, effective July 14. Bill’s position will be administered by CFM. See the announcement regarding Bill’s position on page 42.

Short-term plans include:

• Activating Action Teams focused on Grazing, Prairies, and an ad hoc Communications Team

• Finalizing draft guidance for the Collaborative and developing a formal partner MOU

• Investigating the development of a listserv to facilitate communication among all Collaborative partners

• Launching a bi-monthly newsletter to support ongoing communication

• Identifying a date and location for a 2027 Native Grassland Summit 2.0 and developing statewide staff training opportunities

The Collaborative offers a valuable opportunity for many diverse partners to work together to advance the protection of prairies and the expansion of native plantings. Missouri has a proven track record of successful partner collaboration to improve the state’s natural resources, and the Collaborative will build on that legacy.

Conservation in Missouri

The building looked ominous, illuminated by a pole light. An unknown adventure was waiting inside, or at least that was how it seemed to this 12-year-old boy the morning dad took me to Trimble Wildlife Area for my first duck hunt on a Missouri Conservation Area.

Dad had applied for a blind reservation by requesting an open date. Applications were only accepted between August 20 and September 15, so I made sure he did not miss the deadline.

There was a considerable demand for hunting on the 1,200-acre Trimble Wildlife Area that only included ten blinds and pools surrounding a small lake. The card finally came in the mail, listing us as hunting on November 17, 1965. I had read enough waterfowl hunting stories by then to realize this was a prime-time duck hunting date.

We were early that morning and walked inside the somewhat musty smelling building that had been visited by dozens of wet, muddy boots since the season opened around the first of November. The floors were reasonably clean after invasion by scores of hunters.

A sign stated that drawn blinds cost $3.00 per day with an additional dollar per hunter. A dozen duck decoys could be included for 1.00 per day. Sacks of decoys were stacked neatly on their east wall, some of the bags still damp from the previous day’s hunt.

I was studying mounted ducks on the wall and charts of success ratios in blinds around the area when a deep voice broke the silence. I turned to look up at a big man dressed in his Conservation uniform and a green ball cap.

“This your first time here son?” the man asked.

“Yes sir,” I answered, somewhat nervous, hoping I had not broken some rule of wildlife area etiquette.

“Then let me show you around,” he said. “I sometimes give a tour to special hunters like you.”

He gave me the tour and answered many questions, my first interaction with the Missouri Department of Conservation. The agent explained why we have limits on ducks or geese and gave a brief explanation on how Conservation works through the research of wildlife biologists.

Later that morning the place filled with hunters waiting to draw their blind assignments. Many without prearranged reservations were there because cancellations sometimes occurred and blinds become open. Only four hunters were allowed in a blind, so more hunters than blind space might mean a secondary drawing. Winners hunted and unfortunates went home.

I studied the crowd’s various styles of hunting garb, mostly tanned colored jackets, and the once popular Jon-E- Style hunting hats while others wore dark-colored caps. Drab colors were preferred years before commercial camouflage patterns like Realtree or Mossy Oak were marketed except for military versions. The brief words from that agent on wildlife management made me understand the importance of hunters. I walked away with a new mindset on conservation, hunting and fishing.

Dad and I both managed to shoot a pair of greenhead mallards that morning from an adequate blind that is now somewhere on the bottom of Smithville Lake, as is the Trimble Wildlife Area building’s concrete foundation.

But the spark was lit and later my poor grandfather listened to chattering about this enlightening experience while we took a long drive. He recognized my new passion and arranged for me to receive the Missouri Conservationist by mail.

I excitedly checked our mailbox about the same time each month until the next issue arrived and then poured over stories written by the great Joel Vance and many others. Young eyes combed over stories about hunting, fishing, and descriptions of how Conservation worked. The writing was excellent, adding to my education as a future outdoor communicator.

My early passion for duck and goose hunting made favorites of the November and December Missouri Conservationist issues. I was especially impressed sometime in the middle 1960’s when accomplished MDC photographer, Don Wooldridge posted a photo of his daughter, Ann, who was about my age and holding a brace of Canada geese outside their blind. I remember thinking she must be the most perfect girl, beautiful and a hunter.

I was fortunate to witness Conservation efforts coming to life in my teenage years, about 1967. Deer had been absent from my family’s farms in Northwest Missouri. My uncles were looking over a crop of soybeans one afternoon to be shocked by the sight of a whitetail buck running full blast towards a nearby timber. That was the first recorded sighting of a deer in that section of Buchanan County in decades. Later my cousins and I saw likely the same buck in that field, comically running the opposite direction. Now deer are plentiful in Buchanan County and statewide.

My second Conservation success story materialized in the middle 1970’s when outdoor specialist Andy Gerrard and I found a turkey track in one of our hollows. I had no idea what it was, thinking maybe a vulture while Gerrard insisted it was a turkey. I walked away still doubtful until we started seeing flocks. Now we have good turkey hunts on the farm, Gerrard was right and another MDC success story was written.

Hopefully another Missouri Conservation success story will come alive soon with the introduction of bringing back our quail populations, currently a success program in some areas. We once had three coveys of quail on our 160-acre farm and barely one covey now.

Writing outdoor prose in newspapers and magazines has been my passion for almost 50 years. Hopefully my stories succeeded in placing readers in the duck blind or boat because some folks are no longer physically able to hunt or fish. Maybe some of my stories helped them relive fond memories—at least that is my goal. I have tried to include Conservation tips in all stories—perhaps unconsciously as a tribute to that agent that to talked to me about Conservation those many years ago. Hopefully I have paid him back through my Conservation efforts.

During the 1980’s I wrote newspaper releases for the Missouri Department of Conservation in Metro Coordinator, Jim Pyland’s Kansas City office. That experience lasted three years, greatly adding to my knowledge of Conservation with the help of Pyland and the great Regional Outreach and Education Supervisor, Jeannie Marolf. To this day I am thankful for their patience and understanding through my no-doubt occasional dumb questions.

The Missouri Depart of Conservation is the envy of most wildlife biologists I have spoken with across the country on press trips because of our Design for Conservation, 1/8th of a cent sales tax, or in other words, one penny going for conservation efforts out of every eight dollars of taxable goods going directly to support fish, forest and wildlife conservation efforts. I believe the MDC has used this money efficiently as evidenced by our excellent wildlife populations and quality public hunting area.

Many politicians would love to detour this funding for their own agenda, but thankfully groups like the Conservation Federation of Missouri helps protect our interests in the outdoors. I hope and pray everyone will always protect this Conservation tax.

Maybe another young boy or girl will be enlightened to this thing called Conservation. I cannot imagine a more important life-long ambition!

Kenneth L. Kieser

Plant the Tree

Iwas blessed to grow up on a farm in East-Central Missouri. We planted corn and soybeans, along with raising cattle and hogs. The farm life was a good life with plenty of character-building hard work and long hours. Fortunately for me, my dad realized that it was also important that my brothers and I had a chance to hunt and fish, as well as roam the woods on our property. I spent hours wading in our creek catching fish and crawdads, as well as the occasional snake.

The woods were alive with squirrels, birds, racoons and all types of various flora and fauna. I was in love with nature and everything that went with it. It was sometime in the mid-sixties that my grandmother got me a subscription to the Missouri Conservationist magazine. I read every issue cover to cover and began to understand that in addition to loving the outdoors, I also had a responsibility to help protect it. I made a commitment to always follow the game laws and take every opportunity to plant and grow native species and eliminate invasives whenever I could. This led to a lifetime of improving habitat for both plants and animals.

Our farm had several large oak and walnut trees in the yard and many an afternoon was spent sitting in the shade of one of the them snapping green beans, or just visiting with family and telling tales that were mostly true. When I thought about how old the trees were and that someone that lived long before me planted them, I realized they had left a legacy by doing so, whether they realized it or not.

Our current home has several large trees as well, planted by the previous owner. I like to sit in their shade and ponder the mysteries of life. There is something about sitting there and listening to the sounds of nature that causes stress to go away. During one of these thinking sessions, I decided it would be a good idea to plant trees for the next generation to enjoy. I was able to get a good deal through Forrest Keeling nursery, a valued supporter of CFM and the pasture behind our house quickly started to look like a young forest.

Taking care of the newly planted trees and making sure they were watered and pruned properly has its own therapeutic benefits. It is also fun to think about who will sit in their shade once I am gone. Fox Haas, father of Mossy Oak founder Toxey Haas, was once asked why he continued to plant trees, even at his advanced age. His response was, “I believe the good men do will live long after they are gone.” We live in a world where people want to see immediate results. Patience is hard to find.

When you plant a tree, you may not get to sit in its shade, but you can find satisfaction in knowing future generations will. Go ahead, plant the tree.

Saving Tomorrow, One Seed at a Time

What Missouri’s Seed Bank Can Teach Us About Conservation—and Patience

Asmall plaque in my office reads: “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” Although credited to Audrey Hepburn, the sentiment is something that gardeners all share. For me, that belief shows not just in my own garden, but also in the quiet, meticulous work happening in seed conservation across Missouri and around the world.

As a Master Gardener with the MU Extension Service, nothing struck me quite like our visit to the seed bank at Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray Summit. That’s where I first saw what it really means to believe in tomorrow, one seed at a time.

If you’ve never been to Shaw, you’re missing a treat. It’s a 2,400-acre natural area along the Meramec River, originally created as a refuge when St. Louis’s industrial smog threatened the Missouri Botanical Garden’s plant collections. In 1917, a toxic smoke cloud settled over the city, killing most of the Garden’s orchids. By 1923, even the evergreens were suffering. So the Garden acquired land just outside the city, along what would later become Route 66. In 1926, they moved the orchids there for safekeeping.

The smoke eventually cleared, and most of the plants returned to St. Louis, but the nature reserve remained in use. Today, Shaw Nature Reserve is not just a sanctuary for native plants. Right now it’s home to the Missouri Botanical Garden’s seed bank, a quiet stronghold of conservation. Inside some very ordinary-looking freezers are more than 6,000 accessions of seeds and fruits, each one collected, cleaned, cataloged, and stored by hand.

And it is, very much, a by-hand process.

My fellow Master Gardener, Bill Schwab, has been volunteering at the seed bank for years. He puts it like this:

“Volunteering at the Shaw Nature Reserve seed bank for the past ten years has been deeply gratifying. I’ve cleaned seeds not just from the Ozarks, but from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Madagascar. The work is intricate - drying, cleaning, X-raying, storing - but meaningful. We’ve preserved over 1,300 native species so far. Every five years, we test them for viability. It’s like building a living library, one seed at a time.”

It starts in the field, one seed head at a time. Even seeds from distant countries are collected by hand. Volunteers and staff hike into fields and woodlands, harvesting only what’s needed—carefully, selectively, and often with repeat visits to catch different stages of ripening. Some plants scatter their seeds in the wind. Others cling on like bad houseguests. There’s no shortcut.

Once at Shaw, the cleaning begins. Chaff, bugs, and stems are separated using mesh screens, tweezers, and patience. Seeds are dried for days or even weeks. They’re inspected for viability by X-ray and germination tests. Then they’re labeled with precision: species, collection date, location, and source population. Some seeds are stored for long-term conservation. Others are earmarked for restoration projects already underway.

That connection between preservation and restoration is what brings the work full circle. Seed banking isn’t just about saving rare or delicate species; it also helps preserve the genetic diversity of plants. It’s also about ensuring we can replant what has been lost. The right seeds, grown in the right places, are powerful tools to rebuild resilient ecosystems.

Even common plants like big bluestem can exhibit genetic variation across counties. One population may tolerate drought better. Another may bloom earlier to sync itself with local pollinators. That’s why provenance matters.

When my husband and I planted native grasses and wildflowers on our private land, the Missouri Department of Conservation required documentation showing which Missouri county each seed batch came from. It’s not just about what you plant. It’s also about where it was meant to grow.

Across the state, volunteers and growers collect local seed for projects of all sizes, like restored roadsides, public parks, conservation lands, and even backyard spaces. If you want to plant, the Missouri Prairie Foundation’s Grow Native! program is a valuable resource for responsibly sourced products.

The behind-the-scenes work is where the real magic lives. Standing in Shaw’s seed lab, you see not just jars and labels and freezers, but positive potential. Every seed is a blueprint for pollinator habitat, a bird nesting ground, and a source of biodiversity and resilience.

And here’s the mind-boggling part: it’s all done by hand. No machine automates the collection. No app tells you when a seed is ripe. It’s people like Bill Schwab sitting at a table, gently shaking next spring’s prairie into a bowl.

Every native plant you see blooming in a restored field likely started in someone’s hand. That’s seed conservation. Quiet. Careful. Crucial.

So the next time you see a purple coneflower nodding in the breeze or a stand of Indian grass swaying along the road, remember that patient focused hands saved that future before it ever had roots.

X-ray of Lovegrass seeds (Eragrostis superba) contaminated by insect larvae (lower left and right, and upper centre seeds).  (Photo: James King-Holmes/Science Photo Library) Dr. Jane Williams

The Adventures of Frank & Ed: Archery

Are you boys ready to sling some arrows?" I ask.“Yeah!” Frank says. Ed chimes in, “Don’t run with arrows because it could poke your eye out— and then you couldn’t see in the dark.” “And you couldn’t see in the daytime either,” Frank replies.

That was the conversation this afternoon as we drove to Papa and Grandma’s house for a sleepover, as the boys like to call it. This is probably the third or fourth time we’ve tried archery over the past year, and I’m excited for Frank to try out a new bow I just bought him. I picked up a Mini Genesis at Bass Pro Shops yesterday.

The Mini Genesis® allows for an easier draw and aim without causing fatigue. Weighing only two pounds, it’s perfect for anyone ready to experience the thrill of archery for the first time. It’s available in both right- or left-handed draw, either as a stand-alone bow or a kit. The kit includes a tube quiver, arm guard, and five XX75 arrows*. That’s what it said on the box anyway—and it sold me. You can check it out at https://genesisbow.com.

We also brought along a couple of other bows to shoot this afternoon—a kids' recurve and a PVC pipe bow. While all the bows have a light draw weight and lower power, they still pack enough force to stick into a target, or a person if you're in the way. So, safety is the first thing we teach. Once the boys see an arrow stick into a hay bale or foam target and have to tug it out, it starts to click that it would definitely leave a mark if it hit your body.

Frank is up first and excited to try the new bow. I’ve lowered the draw weight quite a bit, but he still struggles a little to pull it back. There's a bit of a learning curve, but most kids catch on quickly after a few arrows. Today’s target is a foam block with a bunch of balloons taped on. Lots of balloons.

I’m coaching Frank through it. There’s a lot to remember: stance, grip, draw, anchor point, aim, release, and followthrough. He’s doing great—just getting the bow drawn and releasing an arrow is a win for a seven-year-old.

“Hey, you’re starting to get the hang of this, Frank,” I tell him.

“Okay, but how do I put the arrow on the string again, Papa?” he asks.

“It’s called nocking an arrow,” I say.

“Knock, knock,” Frank giggles.

“Who’s there?”

“Arrow.”

“Arrow who?”

“Arrow I’m gonna nock you!”

Very funny, Frank—but that’s the wrong kind of knock for archery.

We start close to the target—about five yards away. That way, they can usually hit the target, and sometimes even a bullseye or a balloon.

Thssuuuuppp—Wack! “Wow, this bow shoots a lot faster and hits the target harder!” Frank shouts. He nocks another arrow and shoots again.

Thssuuuuppp—POP! “I got one, I got one, Papa!”

There’s nothing better than seeing that smile of success on his face.

Ed is next on the line. I start coaching him the same way—stance, grip, draw, anchor, aim, release, followthrough. Yeah, I just repeated myself, and you’ll find yourself doing the same when teaching archery. Just be patient and positive.

Ed, being a couple of years younger, has a tougher time drawing the bow. He’s using the lightweight recurve and finally starts to get the hang of it.

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“Man, this is hard,” Ed grunts, pulling the bowstring. His shots sound more like Twang—Thud!, but they still stick when he hits the target.

We spend a few extra minutes searching for arrows that missed and buried themselves in the grass. It amazes me how well arrows can hide just beneath short grass.

After about 30 minutes and two dozen arrows each, all the balloons are popped, and the boys are ready to call it a day. Once you start losing concentration and getting tired, archery gets a lot harder— for anyone, including me. I find that after 25–30 arrows, my own accuracy starts to drop. Once the proper technique is learned, it all comes down to mental focus.

If you’re looking to get started in archery—whether you’re five or fifty-five—there are lots of helpful websites and YouTube videos. The Genesis website is a great place to start, or you can search for a local archery range or shop. If you're lucky, your child's school may even have an Archery in the Schools Program called MoNASP. You can learn more about it at: https://education.mdc. mo.gov/school-programs/monasp.

Another great way to get started is by visiting the United Bowhunters of Missouri, a CFM Affiliate Organization. They have detailed instructions on how to build your own PVC pipe bow—an affordable and fun way to shoot. Check it out here: https://unitedbowhunters.com/newsand-events/

Pick up a hay bale or a target at Walmart, and you’re set. Just make sure you have a safe backstop for any missed shots.

Give archery a try. I know I’ve spent most of my life enjoying the flight of an arrow—and now, Frank and Ed are too.

Time for Ed’s last shot of the day. Twang—POP!

Fire Building

When I took over leadership of the local boy scout troop, I had no idea how much time this commitment would require. There was a weekly scout meeting and campout once a month, plus a monthly adult leader meeting with other troop leaders. These meetings required considerable preparation time. Each summer, there was a week-long camp plus other special events for older scouts and boys interested in additional camping and hiking activities. Fundraising was also a timeconsuming activity. In addition, I was required to attend several adult leader training sessions each year. I became more efficient at juggling my time and conflicting activities, including work and Mrs. Urich’s assignments, as the years passed. But when I look back, the days must have been longer than 24 hours.

One of my favorite activities as a scout leader was scout skills competitions with other troops camping together. I liked these competitions because they were an excellent opportunity to teach teamwork and leaderships skills. Plus, practicing for these competitions was a good activity at weekly scout meetings, which meant I didn’t have to think up other activities for these meetings.

Fire building was always featured at these competitions. The scouts built a fire under a string that was suspended about 2 feet above the ground. The first team to burn the string was the winner. Fires were started with flint and steel. After watching one of these fire building competitions, I immediately realized that the scouts should be organized into a team with each scout assigned a specific task, directed by a team leader. Otherwise, one or two scouts did all the work, usually in a disorganized manner, while the other scouts on the team watched without involvement.

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The first step was to teach the scouts how to peel loose, dry bark off large red cedar trees and shred it into fine long threads to make a base for the spark from the flint and steel striker. Finely shredded cedar bark is almost as flammable as napalm. I never saw any other troops use this method for starting a fire quickly. I taught the scouts how to recognize flint while hiking on campouts with the best spots located along streams. Because the county dredged road rock adjacent to a river, the gravel road in front of our house was an excellent source of flint and is why we were members of the flat tire of the month club.

Each team of scout fire builders had a leader called the fire master who stood next to the fire location and coordinated the other scouts. The scouts kneeled with their supplies near the spot where the fire would be built until called by the fire master. Practice sessions on striking the steel on the flint were critical and were done at scout meetings. It was the fire master’s role to select the best scouts at striking a spark. The scouts used a traditional steel striker which wrapped around their fingers in a closed fist and was held in place with the thumb. Striking the flint with the steel chipped off small pieces of metal which immediately oxidized and glowed. The trick was to strike the flint at the right angle and with enough force to chip the steel. The glowing chip was caught in the cedar fibers. Blowing would ignite the fibers almost instantly.

The year I oversaw organizing the fire building competition for the troops attending the scout skills competition, I decided to add more complexity and challenge. Not only did the scouts have to build a fire with flint and steel, but they also had to cook a pancake, run to a rope tied 6 feet in the air, flip the pancake over the rope and run back to the starting line to eat the pancake.

When the competition started, the fire master called forward the scouts with different sizes of twigs which were assembled like a teepee with a hole on one side. Then the fire master called the two strikers who knelt next to the twigs. The holder of the cedar tinder knelt next to the strikers. I learned at scout meeting practice sessions the chance of producing a glowing ember on the first strike was much greater with two strikers. Both strikers blew on the ember in the cedar bark until it ignited and was placed into twigs set under the string. The first time the scouts participated in this competition they burned the string in 16 seconds easily taking first and second place. The keys were teamwork, coordination, leadership and practice.

This competition would require organization and leadership at a higher level. The only rule was the pancake had to be made with individual ingredients rather than a mix. I made this rule because I knew most of the competing teams would not add an egg to the pancake ingredients which holds the pancake together making it possible to flip six feet over a rope. Also, the components had to be measured reasonably well, or the pancake would not be flipable. I bought big aluminum pans from a thrift store for each team in the troop. Young scouts don’t have the wrist strength to flip a pancake high in the air from a cast-iron skillet, which is what the other troops would use.

The leader of each team was called the pancake master who directed the other scouts in the group. The pancake master’s sole job was to guide the other scouts and call out the steps needed to cook the pancake. At practice sessions during scout meetings, I learned the scout holding the pan needed thick leather gloves. Additionally, the pancake master had to carefully monitor the fire's intensity to prevent the scout holding the pan from being cooked before the pancake was done. It took several practice sessions before the pancake master understood how the fire intensity should be controlled.

There was a fine line between cooking the pancake properly for flipping and cooking the scout holding the pan. We tried extending the handles of the pans but longer handles made flipping the pancake over the rope too difficult.

During the competition with the other troops, the pancake master guided the fire-building team before calling for the pan holder to warm the pan. This was an important step that most of the other teams neglected. Pancake batter poured into a cold pan spreads out into a paper-thin pancake that is impossible to flip over the 6-foot high rope. When the pan was warmed, the pancake master called for the oiler. This scout rubbed a cloth dipped in vegetable oil on the inside of the pan. Keeping the pancake from sticking to the pan was critical. Then the pancake batter was poured into the pan by another scout.

The pancake master monitored the formation of bubbles in the batter to determine when the pancake was ready to be flipped. This essential step also required practice at scout meetings. The pancake master called for the flip and another scout lifted the pancake with a spatula and the oiler rubbed the bottom of the pan with the cloth soaked in vegetable oil. During all these steps, the pancake master directed other scout team members on how much wood to add to the fire. Finally, the pancake master called for the runner, who was one of the taller scouts. The flipper shoved the spatula under the pancake to make sure it wouldn’t stick, and the runner took off towards the rope. We cooked a lot of pancakes at scout meetings until the runners for each team learned how to flip the pancake over the 6-foot-high rope.

The two teams in the troop easily dominated this competition because of the practice sessions and teamwork. One of my more challenging tasks as troop leader was to encourage the older scouts to occasionally allow younger scouts to lead the teams in various scout skills competitions. Typically, the older boys didn’t want to be directed by a younger scout. Sometimes the older scouts didn’t want to be on a team with younger scouts. I had to remind these older scouts of some of the points in the Scout Law such as being helpful and kind and to remind them that they were once young scouts. Encouraging older scouts to assist younger scouts in all aspects of the scouting program was an important challenge for me as a leader.

I spent over a decade as the troop leader since we had three sons in the program. The only reason I was able to squeeze in the huge time commitment was because the days were obviously longer and unfortunately have since been shortened to 24 hours, which was a bad idea. Dozens and dozens of scouts participated in the troop when I was the leader. Decades later, I still run into young men who greet me with, “Hello, Mister Urich.” Most of the time, I don’t recognize them, but I know it is a former Boy Scout by the greeting. We chat about the past and present. I always enjoy hearing about their lives after scouting. Invariably, the conversation comes around to one of the scout skills competitions. Apparently, these events had a big impact on the boys in the troop and the memories they carried into adulthood.

David Urich

Cover - Scouts practicing fire building in a race to be the first to burn the string. (Photo: Courtesy of David Urich)

Left - Scouts practicing pancake cooking on a camping trip at Lake of the Ozarks State Park. (Photo: Courtesy of David Urich)

Top - Scout flipping a pancake over a rope during a practice session for a fire building and pancake cooking competition with other scout troops. (Photo: Courtesy of David Urich)

Functional Art: Ozarks Style

As a kid growing up in northern Shannon County, there were a lot of things I took for granted that I learned later in life were actually quite rare. Not everyone gets to swim in crystal-clear creeks and rivers, not everyone likes fried squirrel, and hardly any schools close for a whole week during the firearms deer season.

Another tidbit I got re-educated on as a grown man was that not everyone grew up making turkey calls or was on a first-name basis with world-class craftsmen who did. This point was hammered home when I attended a presentation this past May put on by David Ferguson at the Shannon County History Museum in Eminence, MO.

A collection of box calls made by locals was recently donated to the museum, and David gave us a little history lesson on the makers and their wares.

Wild turkeys, like whitetail deer, were almost extirpated in the Show-Me State due to unregulated market hunting in the early 1900s. The Missouri Department of Conservation did a phenomenal job restoring the flock statewide, and the first modern spring turkey season was held in 1960. It was a three-day event, held in only 14 southern counties, with a one-bird limit. That first season saw 94 birds taken by almost 700 hunters. That’s a far cry from the 45,000 birds harvested nowadays in 114 counties by more than 150,000 hunters.

In the 1970s, when I was a youngster, there was no hunting gear industry like there is today. If you wanted to call up a spring longbeard, you either did it with your own voice or whittled out a box call or friction call to make the sounds for you. In shop class, a lot of boys spent a lot of time making these contraptions, and you were considered “uppity” if you somehow managed to scrape up the cash to buy a Lynch 101 box call instead. And while most of us made calls just for something to do, a few took it seriously. There were also a few adults in the area who built these as a hobby that later turned into a real cash cow.

They developed a unique style known as the “fence post” call that was highlighted in Earl Mickel’s book Turkey Callmakers Past and Present. This publicity over their call-making skills caused collectors from all over the world to desire an item for their personal collections. These folks didn’t care about sound quality; they just wanted a beautiful and unique example of Ozarks folk art to sit on their mantlepiece.

The signature look of a fence post call is that the box, handle, and paddle on top are long—really long. They certainly won’t fit in the box call pocket of your turkey vest! There are two stories that are told about how that name came to be. The first is that these calls were often made from cedar fence posts that folks used in their pastures and barn lots. These old, weathered pieces of wood were already seasoned, making them easier for the artist to work with. The other story David told us in his presentation, and it was the first time I had heard it.

A local call maker named Cecil Fry made his early versions narrow and about 16” long. His coworkers joked that his calls could be used to set wall studs or even be used as fence posts. He took a liking to the description and named his call “The Fence Post.” While I sat and listened to David’s history lesson, I was struck by the fact that I had grown up in the presence of greatness and had no idea about it. Call makers that are known to turkey hunters and call collectors worldwide were just regular folks to me. Swiney Rayfield, one of the artists on display at the museum, was my father’s math teacher and my high school guidance counselor. Jim Chilton, another featured artist, was my fourth-grade teacher. Jack Burris, who is a world-renowned woodcarver, is also a noted call maker. He and his wife, Betty, were sitting right next to me at the presentation.

Several years ago, Jack and Betty surprised me with a call that Jack had made from a cedar post off the Haverstick family farm. On the other side of me sat Robert Searcy, who I went to school with. His mother, Leatha, was our lunchroom cook. His father, Dan Searcy, is probably the most famous of the local calligraphers, and I have seen his art sell for thousands of dollars on eBay.

The presenter, David Ferguson, is one of those kids I mentioned who took the call-making hobby seriously. He was a year ahead of me in school, and I had no idea what an artist he was until I came across a magazine article about him and his craft 25 years later. Like his mentors, David’s calls are sought after, and one took home first place in one of the call-making divisions at the National Wild Turkey Federation’s annual convention a few years ago. He is also a walking encyclopedia of all things pertaining to turkey call making, especially when it involves local history. His own collection of calls includes the box call Wayland Powell used to kill the first turkey in Shannon County after the start of the modern season, and the Cecil Fry call that started “The Fence Post” name.

I am fortunate enough to own two of David’s calls, and both have a very special place in my heart. The first one is half of a pair he made for my brother and me. David lives in the small community of Ink, MO, on the old homeplace my great-uncle, Otho Haverstick, owned.

The calls that David crafted were made from wood that came off that farm. The second call is a token of his appreciation for me helping him out during a particularly rough time we went through a while back. The artwork on it is stunning and deeply personal to me. Both calls have been with me on turkey hunting expeditions, and both have helped me lure a wary Shannon County gobbler to his demise.

If you find yourself in Eminence and need something to do after horseback riding or being on the river, take a walk down Main Street and stop in at the history museum. Not only will you see its wonderful collection of handmade turkey calls, but you’ll also learn some cool things about our state in general—and that region in particular. Trust me, it will definitely be worth your time!

Darren Haverstick

Pg 56: One of my Ferguson calls. David knows I love to black powder squirrel hunt!

Pg 57 Top: David Ferguson, local historian and call maker extraordinaire!

Pg 57 Bottom Left - The Cecil Fry call that the name “Fence Post” came from.

Pg 57 Bottom Right - The call Wayland Powell used to kill the first turkey in Shannon County in 1966.

Pg 58 - A Swiney Rayfield call made from an actual fence post. The hole in the handle is from a carpenter bee.

Photos: Darren Haverstick

My Prairie History

A childhood in nature, in a conservation state, leads to a conservation career and lifelong learning about the natural world.

Iwas one of the luckiest kids in the world. I grew up in an old farmhouse on the grounds of Shaw Nature Reserve in Gray Summit, Missouri, where my parents worked. Owned by the Missouri Botanical Garden, Shaw Nature Reserve is 2,400 acres of diverse natural communities and native plantings that provide habitat for wildlife and opportunities for people to enjoy nature. Every morning after I woke up, I looked out the window and everything I could see to the horizon was green. The remarkable thing about it was that I didn't take it for granted. I knew my childhood was unusual, and I knew I was fortunate.

My parents were not initially trained in biology—there was a lot they didn’t know. They learned a lot by doing and by observing. They also allowed my two sisters and I to develop bonds with nature on our own terms.

In my childhood, I spent countless hours outside in unsupervised play. I explored mud pits with bare feet. I watched insects walking up tree bark. My sisters and I slept with the windows open in summer, falling asleep to the joyous din of katydids. This kind of sensory immersion with nature prepared me for lifelong learning about nature.

My childhood experience—and my parents’ candor about the limits of their own knowledge—prepared me to be open to new information. I learned more in college, and a tremendous amount when I went on to work for the Missouri Botanical Garden and the Missouri Department of Conservation from colleagues who were ornithologists, botanists, herpetologists, and ecologists.

Prairie Career Beginnings

At Shaw Nature Reserve, my parents were involved in establishing a prairie planting from a former old field pasture. Prairie plantings are not prairies, just like a planting of different kinds of cacti is not a desert. People can never recreate a specific habitat in all its complexity. However, prairie plantings are important, and the one my dad was involved with establishing is now nearly 50 years old. This 200-acre planting has given people in the greater St. Louis area an opportunity to learn about prairie and get an idea of what prairie looks like.

Growing up, I was not initially very interested in this planting. It was a sea of plants, without any element on which I could focus. Then, when I was a teenager, a famous photographer named Ernst Haas came and created photographs of the prairie. His photos framed specific aspects of the planting and helped me see it in a new way.

In high school, I worked part-time alongside my parents, adding more plants to the prairie planting, collecting seeds, and helping propagate plants in the greenhouse. By the time I left for college, I had cultivated an aesthetic sense that could appreciate it.

Fast forward to the present, to my career as the executive director of the Missouri Prairie Foundation, where I have worked in various capacities since 1997, and prairie has become profound to me on many levels. And working for the 59-year-old Missouri Prairie Foundation, and with its board members, staff, our volunteers, and financial supporters—witnessing their commitment and love of prairie adds yet another dimension to my experience.

Prairie Roots, An Agricultural Giant, and Prairie Conservation Pioneers

My work—like that of all of my conservation colleagues— is rooted in natural history and land use changes. Modern prairie as we think of it today, developed about 8,000 years ago. Native Americans living in Missouri maintained the tallgrass prairie through their cultural use of fire for the past 5,000 years or so.

Over those thousands of years of deep-rooted prairie plant growth and decay, prairie soils became incredibly deep and rich—in fact, some of the richest and most productive soils on the planet. After John Deere developed the self-cleaning steel plow in 1837, the eventual conversion of much of the prairie to agricultural production began. The agricultural productivity of prairie soil led to the economic expansion of the country during the 19th century and continues to influence the nation’s economy. However, the link between the current American economy and its prairie roots is not common knowledge among most Americans.

Many Americans, and notably many Missourians, were, nonetheless, acutely aware of the rapidly changing landscape. More than half a century ago, a small group of Missourians held a meeting at Boone Tavern in Columbia, Missouri, to talk about prairie. Or rather, the disappearance of it.

This was 1966, nearly one hundred years after the introduction of the first steam-powered tractor, which marked the beginning of accelerated land conversion to row crops.

Even before statehood, the plow had begun turning over Missouri’s legacy of 15 million acres of tallgrass prairie—a land once home to the Osage nation and other Native American people, and a vast landscape for which early French explorers had no name, using prairie, the French word for meadow, to describe it.

By the mid-20th century, less than one-half percent of the state’s original prairie was all that remained. The vast native grasslands that once rolled unbroken across much of Missouri were gone, with remaining fragments isolated and their wildlife value much diminished.

Members of that group of Missourians at Boone Tavern were alarmed at the loss of prairie—an ecosystem that once covered at least one-third of the state and replete with grassland birds, diverse plant and insect life, and endless beauty. Among the people in the group were the late Bill Crawford—named a Missouri Master Conservationist in 2010—and the late Don Christisen— inducted to the Missouri Conservation Hall of Fame the same year—who were part of a nexus of founding members of what the group became: the Missouri Prairie Foundation (MPF).

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The first members of MPF—including its first president, the late physician Dr. Maurice Lonsway of St. Louis— were determined to save prairie and help Missourians understand the importance of doing so.

One of MPF’s earliest purchases was the initial 320-acre acquisition of Golden Prairie in Barton County, which was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1975 and a designated Missouri Natural Area in 2015.

Through the support of its members and other funders, MPF has continued to acquire and protect land over the past nearly six decades. Through constant and vigilant management—including invasive plant control, tree removal, and prescribed fire—MPF maintains a high level of biodiversity on prairies it owns, which are some of the best managed in the state.

Today, as a 59-year-old land trust, MPF owns more than 5,000 acres in 35 tracts of land, including some of the rarest prairie types like sand prairies near the Bootheel, limestone prairies in Polk County, and loess bluff prairie near Nebraska.

Entrusted with a Legacy

One of the many gifts I have received during my career is the trust that the late Bill Crawford and others from the MPF community had in me to continue MPF’s prairie conservation legacy for which they laid the foundation.

With a hands-on board of directors, volunteers, committee members, a total staff of only seven, and not physical office, the organization continues its dedication to protecting priceless prairie. This includes excellent stewardship of the prairies in its ownership and sharing conservation strategies in public and private sectors, supporting prairie research, and promoting the use of native plants for their many benefits where people live, work, farm, learn, and play.

In addition to the land it owns, MPF has protected and helped conserve thousands of additional acres through its prairie outreach, advocacy, and education efforts. The organization has published the Missouri Prairie Journal for 46 years.

In the 1970s, MPF and other conservation groups successfully advocated for the establishment of Prairie State Park in Barton County, the first parcel of which was purchased in 1980. Today, at nearly 4,000 acres, the park is Missouri’s largest publicly owned prairie.

In 2016, MPF established National Prairie Day, registered on the National Day Calendar as the first Saturday in June, to enhance public awareness on a national scale of what prairie is, educate about its value, and motivate all who learn about prairie to be inspired to support prairie conservation, restoration, and enjoyment.

My Prairie Journey

I don't think I can concisely speak to all the things prairie means to me personally and why I find my work compelling, but I can tell you this: Prairie is a landscape that is at once open—a place to see the whole sky—and also full of infinite detail, with the hundreds of plant species that can occur even on a 40-acre original prairie, all the insects, all the songs and calls of grassland birds. The beauty and diversity are staggering.

The rarity of prairie makes it all the more precious. There are plant and animal species, like grass pink orchids, crayfish frogs, and regal fritillary butterflies, that, in Missouri, are dependent upon original, unplowed prairie and may disappear from the planet if we don't save what original prairie is left.

Prairie isn't just beautiful, it isn't just biologically diverse, and it isn’t just rare. Prairie provides extremely important benefits to people—its rich soils and deep roots store tremendous amounts of carbon, which helps mitigate the negative effects of climate change. Prairies are pollinator reservoirs, and many of the pollinating insects that require prairie habitat and prairie plants also pollinate many of our food crops. So, prairies are about food security for people, too. The vast networks of prairie roots absorb and filter rainwater—this helps protect streams by reducing flooding. How could I not find this landscape and this work compelling?

I am extremely grateful to all the Missourians who have nurtured the conservation culture of our state, and for the opportunities I have had to learn and to continue contributing to it. Like the wildlife and natural resources we treasure, the individual paths we follow that lead us to conservation work are priceless.

Pg 61 Top - The author in 2017 with the late Bill Crawford, one of the founders of the Missouri Prairie Foundation and a Master Conservationist. (Photo: Courtesy of Carol Davit)

Pg 61 Bottom - Don Christisen, one of the founders of the Missouri Prairie Foundation, inducted into the Missouri Conservation Hall of Fame in 2010. (Photo: Courtesy of Carol Davit)

Pg 62 - At left, Dr. Maurice Lonsway of St. Louis, the Missouri Prairie Foundation’s first president, leading  a field trip at Golden Prairie in 1970. With him are from left, Jane Roberts, Gretchen Harschbarger, and Marjorie McGennis. (Photo: Courtesy of Carol Davit

Pg 63 - MPF Vice President of Science & Management Bruce Schuette leading a group to explore Shelton L. Cook Meadow in 2024. Photo by Emily Gustafson. (Photo: Courtesy of Carol Davit)

TRADITIONS START HERE

RedHead was built for pioneers more than 165 years ago. Today, RedHead makes hunting apparel for men who see a little bit of themselves in those trailblazers.

RedHead stands for those who know they’ll shape the future without burying the past. Learn more at basspro.com/redheadhunt