Conservation Area Management Comment Opportunities

How important are conservation areas to you?

The Missouri Department of Conservation is in the process of updating management plans for conservation areas and invites public comments. To view management plans and share comments online, visit mdc.mo.gov/areaplans.  

The following draft Conservation Area Management Plans are available for public comment from November 1-30, 2015. 

Northwest Region

Northwest Region Platte River Accesses - This plan includes thirteen accesses along the Platte River in Buchanan, Nodaway, Andrew, Clinton, and Worth counties. Some of the accesses include camping, concrete ramps, and privies. This area plan includes the following accesses: Agency Access, Bridgewater Access, Bristle Ridge Access, Burton Bridge Access, Elrod Mill Access, Hadorn Bridge Access, Keever Bridge Access, Lathrop Bridge Access, Midway Access, Rochester Falls Access, Rock Quarry Access, Saxton Access, and Sheridan Access.

Southeast Region

Flatwoods Conservation Area - Flatwoods Conservation area is 935 acres of upland forest and woodland in Wayne County. This area is managed to provide wildlife habitat, forest products, and compatible recreational opportunities. An archery range, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible and firearm range with parking lot (ADA accessible) are available for public use.

Reynolds County River Accesses - Reynolds County River Accesses include Centerville Access and Lesterville Access along the Black River. Centerville Access allows canoe launch access. 

Wilhelmina Conservation Area - Wilhelmina Conservation Area is 1,476 acres of bottomland forest, old tree plantations, and open land. The area includes three gravel parking lots and a small concrete pad with two picnic tables. Popular recreational activities include fishing, hunting, and hiking.

Yokum School Conservation Area - Yokum School Conservation Area is 160 acres of forest and woodland. This area includes a graveled parking lot, 1,320 feet of woods trail, 1 fishless pond, and 1 primitive camping area available for public use.

Southwest Region

Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area (Idea Gathering Stage) - Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area is 2700 acres of forest, woodland, old field, and glade. This area is heavily used by campers, horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bike users. Facilities at this area include a shooting range, 2 multi-use trails, 2 picnic tables, 4 parking lots, and 8 individual campsites. Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area is accepting public comments prior to the development of its area management plan. The comment period for Busiek closes December 31.

Take a look at management plans and share your thoughts online at mdc.mo.gov/areaplans. Thank you for your interest in the management of your Conservation Areas!