Tree health in the Ozarks, a growing concern

View from Stegall Mtn Firetower

People with tree concerns or questions can get answers at June 18 event

WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Missourians love their trees and each summer, a number of diseases and pests cause concern for tree owners throughout the region.

People can get information about tree problems they may be experiencing at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) seminar “Are Trees In Trouble.” This free event will be 9 a.m.-2 p.m. June 18 at the MDC Ozark Regional Office in West Plains (551 Joe Jones Blvd.). Lunch will be provided.

Part of the workshop will focus on invasive species that could have critical impacts on Missouri forests. Also discussed will be the benefits of urban trees and I-Tree Streets, a computer-based program that allows communities to conduct and analyze street tree inventory. I-Tree Streets software allows homeowners in urban areas to see the benefits of having trees in their neighborhood and around town.

The workshop will conclude with a showing of “Trees in Trouble,” a documentary that tells the story of America’s urban and community forests; their history, their growing importance to our health, economy and environment.

People can register for this workshop by to register for this workshop, contact MDC’s Ozark Regional Office at 417-256-7161. Information about tree pests and tree management can also be found at mdc.mo.gov.

MDC to hold two instructional float trips on James River

Canoe trips are great ways for families to see the outdoors. On June 16 qne 17, the Missouri Department of Conservation will offer instructional canoeing programs that will include a float trip on the James River.

Programs to offer hands-on canoeing experience for beginning paddlers.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Paddling a canoe down an Ozarks stream is a great way for a family to see this area’s outdoors beauty. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will have two programs in June where beginning paddlers can learn about canoeing through a five-mile float on the James River.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 16, MDC will hold a Discover Nature Women’s Canoeing program. This free program will give women the opportunity to learn, explore and experience canoeing at a beginner level. The float trip will be led by MDC staff and volunteers using MDC-provided canoes. All participants must be 14 years of age or older. Girls ages 14 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants will meet at the MDC Southwest Regional Office in Springfield (2630 N. Mayfair Ave.) at 9 a.m. Transportation to and from the river will be provided. Participants are responsible for their own lunch and refreshments.

The next day, June 17, MDC is offering a Discover Nature Family Canoeing program. This free program, which is also from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., is designed to give families an opportunity to learn about canoeing at a beginner level. Youths ages 6-17 must be accompanied by an adult. Like the previous day’s program, participants will meet at the MDC Southwest Regional Office in Springfield at 9 a.m. and transportation to and from the James River will be provided. Participants are responsible for their own lunch and refreshments.

To register for either of these programs, call 417-895-6880. For more information about other upcoming events, go online to http://mdc.mo.gov/events.

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