Stewards of the Central Region

Missouri’s greatest conservation resource is its citizens. With the majority of land in private ownership, state programs would be useless without landowner and community participation.

In the Central Region, partnerships between citizens and the Conservation Department have had many successes. These include improved habitats, increased game and fish populations, community forestry assistance, the creation of outdoor classrooms and better-equipped fire departments. Ninety conservation areas have been created in the region, most of these convenient to major highways.

This focus on the Central Region showcases the experiences of one region’s citizens and highlights some of the unique recreation opportunities in the area. Whether you follow in their footsteps or just follow their wooded paths, you’ll see how conservation partnerships can transform communities.