When most people think about migratory birds and waterfowl, the colorful plumage and royal presence of ducks and geese come to mind, but the gray, black, and white mourning dove graces the cover of this year’s hunting digest from the state Department of Conservation. Only minor adjustments have been made to the regulations for theContinue reading “Dove season is first for fall hunting opportunities”
Tag Archives: nature
Fall food plot planting programs offer answers for deer hunters
A sweltering summer day seems like a splendid time to consider the forecast for the first frost of fall. That date is an important consideration for those planning on planting a food plot of forage for deer and other animals this autumn. Because Missouri is about 300 miles from top to bottom, the average firstContinue reading “Fall food plot planting programs offer answers for deer hunters”
Nature center celebrates 35 years with passport program
Powder Valley Nature Center celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. It would be disingenuous for me to say, I can’t believe it’s been around that long, because coincidentally, we have a daughter who is 35 years old this year, and she has been enjoying the “special place” since she was very little. The state DepartmentContinue reading “Nature center celebrates 35 years with passport program”
State invites comments on proposed camping fees at conservation areas
For decades the state Department of Conservation has offered free primitive camping at more than 300 properties, but that situation is likely going to change beginning next year. That sweet situation will come to an end for one simple reason: people. The implementation of fees is not about making money for the agency; the proposedContinue reading “State invites comments on proposed camping fees at conservation areas”
Annual open archery tournament supports state conservation efforts
For those who are not counting down the days until archery deer hunting season opens in Missouri, the number is now under two months. July and August are long months, and the weather makes you yearn for fall, but now is the time to begin preparations. The most important elements are practice, practice and practice.Continue reading “Annual open archery tournament supports state conservation efforts”
Managed deer hunt application period now open
Jefferson County residents hoping to participate in the state’s managed deer hunting program this fall have many things to think about before applying for their best opportunity. The most important consideration is timing. The online application process is only available this month. Every year the state Department of Conservation program offers hunts on public landsContinue reading “Managed deer hunt application period now open”
Funding for state parks on crowded August ballot
The August primary election is more than a month away, and I am already sick and tired of the television advertising. The ballot includes multiple issues, and big spenders are flooding the airwaves with relentless mischaracterizations for and against the proposals. At the very least, the deluge could discourage voter participation. Who wants to beContinue reading “Funding for state parks on crowded August ballot”
First visit found much to like about Montauk
When I interviewed new Jefferson County conservation agent Dominick Montileone III earlier this month, I was not surprised to learn that one of the places he identified as part of his indoctrination to the outdoors was in the woods and water at Montauk State Park. Our new agent, who begins his assignment on July 1,Continue reading “First visit found much to like about Montauk”
Rarely orphaned, wild babies don’t need human help
Every spring the state Department of Conservation sends a reminder to “leave wildlife wild” because the advice is so important for the newborns and hatchlings that sometimes end up a little too close to home. I had two encounters last week. A baby robin found its way into the garage, then couldn’t find its wayContinue reading “Rarely orphaned, wild babies don’t need human help”
Conservation agent returns home with new assignment
Most people associate homecoming with the fall season, but a 2018 Northwest High School graduate returns to his alma mater on July 1. Conservation agent Dominick Montileone III starts his new assignment in service to Jefferson County next month. Following graduation from the state Department of Conservation Agent Training Academy last September, Montileone was assignedContinue reading “Conservation agent returns home with new assignment”
Don't Call Me Outdoor John 