While many people look for more ways to exploit the earth and its resources, it is heartening to known that places still exist that are dedicated to preservation of our planet in its almost natural state. On Dec. 31, 2024, in recognition of the 60th anniversary of the Wilderness Act of 1964, the Missouri StateContinue reading “Wild areas continue to expand in Missouri at 60th anniversary”
Tag Archives: nature
Learn to burn: New local organization helps landowners with prescribed fire; Open meeting Feb. 8 in Festus
Mired in a month of actual winter this January, the idea of a meeting about fire and its benefits might attract a crowd just for the warm thoughts. The newly formed Mid Mississippi Prescribed Burn Association of Missouri is more than just a hot idea; the group helps landowners work together to manage their propertiesContinue reading “Learn to burn: New local organization helps landowners with prescribed fire; Open meeting Feb. 8 in Festus”
Roadside cedars prove their power after recent winter storms
Driving on Interstate 55 north of the construction zone earlier this month I earned a new bit of respect for the eastern red cedar tree. While I still harbor some ill feelings, seeing several small soldiers poking through the piles of plowed snow, sleet, slush and slop in the chunk rock median proves the tree’sContinue reading “Roadside cedars prove their power after recent winter storms”
Birds of prey will be back at Powder Valley for program
Bird watching in the winter has its perks even if it isn’t prime time for following our feathered friends. While most of our spring and summertime regulars have fled for warmer weather, we do get the opportunity to see a few who find our cold clime just fine. The biggest advantages are the lack ofContinue reading “Birds of prey will be back at Powder Valley for program”
CWD meeting at Festus VFW canceled
Due to the inclement weather and unsafe travel conditions, the chronic wasting disease meeting scheduled for this evening at 6 p.m. at the Festus VFW has been canceled. The state Department of Conservation encourages interested parties to attend similar meetings Thursday, Jan. 9 in Perry County at 6 p.m. at the Perry County Center, andContinue reading “CWD meeting at Festus VFW canceled”
If winter weather doesn’t wipe it out, meeting will provide CWD answers for public at Festus VFW
Maybe I’m obsessed with chronic wasting disease. This column marks the fourth time I’ve written about it in the past four months, but on the other hand, it is the first time this year. While there are people who are quick with theories attempting to discount the deadly deer disease, I am more aligned withContinue reading “If winter weather doesn’t wipe it out, meeting will provide CWD answers for public at Festus VFW”
CWD surveillance statistics show slow continuous expansion
The number of deer that test positive for chronic wasting disease in Missouri continues to climb at a slow and steady pace. That bad news is positive from the perspective that it could be worse. Eleven new cases have been documented this fall in the same small area of Jefferson County where the disease hasContinue reading “CWD surveillance statistics show slow continuous expansion”
Deer harvest totals down due to several accumulating factors
There are nearly as many theories on the significant drop in deer harvest numbers this fall as there are hunters who tagged deer. And most of that speculation probably comes from guys like me who didn’t have success in the November portion of firearms season. Without including the conspiracy stories, there are plenty of logicalContinue reading “Deer harvest totals down due to several accumulating factors”
Christmas Bird Count seeks volunteers to carry on 125-year tradition
The Thanksgiving Day celebrations are barely behind us, and we are already full speed ahead toward Christmas. One holiday tradition celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, and it continues to grow and add new participants each year. The Audubon Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was initiated in 1900 by a bird fan who suggestedContinue reading “Christmas Bird Count seeks volunteers to carry on 125-year tradition”
Different traditional Thanksgiving feast comes a week early
As people who enjoy the outdoors, we have much to be thankful for. The beauty and bounty of nature can sustain us physically and spiritually. Spending time in the fresh air is restorative, and the nutritional value of wild game exceeds almost anything you can buy in the store. It also can be really tasty.Continue reading “Different traditional Thanksgiving feast comes a week early”
Don't Call Me Outdoor John 