Winter is no reason to stay indoors.  There are plenty of activities that make worthwhile outdoor pursuits in cooler weather.  It just takes the right knowledge and precautions to have a safe and enjoyable time. 

To help prepare for winter, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering four free public programs in Sullivan on Saturday, Nov. 22.  This includes three programs held at the Sullivan Scenic Regional Library Branch, and a hike at nearby Meramec Conservation Area.   Participants can attend any one or a combination of programs.  Preregistration is required for each program separately at the links provided below:

• Winter Bird ID; 9 – 10:30 a.m.
  • Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4C.
  • Join MDC for an enlightening program on winter birds and birdfeeders. Discover the various visitors you’re likely to encounter during the cold months and learn about the specific feeders and seeds that attract each species. Equip yourself with knowledge to create a bird-friendly environment in your backyard this winter.
• Cold Weather Hiking; 11 a.m. – noon.
  • Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4y.
  • First-timers, beginning hikers, or those who want to brush up on their skills can learn the basics of how to prepare for a cold weather hike. Winter hiking can be intimidating, but participants will discover ways to stay warm and stay safe. The program will include topics on clothing, equipment, suggestions on places to hike, and useful apps.
• Cool Weather Forest Hike; 1 – 2:30 p.m. (Meramec Conservation Area)
  • Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4v.   
  • Take a relaxing 1.3-mile hike along the loop trail at Meramec Conservation Area. Overlook the Meramec River and learn about different plants and birds along the way.  Participants should dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.
• Introduction to Knot Tying; 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. 
  • Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4t. 
  • Can’t tie a knot so you tie a lot? This course is designed to show you how to tie the 10 most basic knots for the outdoors. Participants will learn about each knot and see how they can be used in the field.  There will also be chances for hands-on practice.

The Sullivan Branch of the Scenic Regional Library is located at 525 Cumberland Way in Sullivan. To reach Meramec Conservation Area from the I-44 exit at Sullivan, take Highway 185 south five miles to the area sign.  The area is on the north side of Highway 185.

Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.

Many people look to springtime to start their fishing adventures. However, great angling opportunities for rainbow trout are just beginning right now in the St. Louis region. The month of November marks the annual start of the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) winter trout season. 

Winter trout fishing, part of MDC’s St. Louis Urban Fishing Program, is good news for trout chasers.  They need only drive minutes to pursue their passions, rather than hours to a Missouri trout park or distant Ozark stream. 

During cold-weather months, MDC will stock nearly 40,000 rainbow trout from November until February in 11 St. Louis City and County lakes, Union City Lake in Franklin County, as well as in five lakes in the August A. Busch Conservation Area on Route D in St. Charles. 

Anglers should note that Wild Acres Park Lake in Overland will not be stocked with trout during the 2025-2026 Winter Trout Season.  It is undergoing a renovation project making it inaccessible to fishing.

MDC will continue to add several brood stock lunker trout—some as large as 10 lbs.—into the mix at its urban winter trout lakes, including the ones in August A. Busch Conservation Area.

  Area lakes stocked with winter trout this winter include:

• Carondelet Park Boathouse Lake in St. Louis
• Gendron Lake in St. Ann
• January-Wabash Lake in Ferguson
• Jefferson Lake in Forest Park
• Koeneman Park Lake in Jennings
• O’Fallon Park Lake in St. Louis
• Suson Park’s Island Lake and Carp Lake
• Tilles Park Lake in St. Louis County
• Union City Lake in Union, Franklin County
• Walker Lake in Kirkwood
• Vlasis Park Lake in Ballwin
• August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area lakes 3, 7, 21, 22, and 23
• Union City Lake in Union, Franklin County

Between Nov. 1 and Jan. 31, some lakes are catch-and-release only, and some are catch-and-keep.  After Feb. 1, trout may be harvested from all lakes.  Anglers can find information on specific winter trout lakes statewide at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zd5, or check regulations posted at the lakes.  All trout anglers between age 16 and 64 must have a valid Missouri fishing permit to participate.  Anglers wishing to catch and keep trout must also possess a trout permit regardless of age. 

MDC provides a chance for anglers to keep on top of trout stocking efforts in the St. Louis area via the Fish Stocking Hotline.  The hotline is updated immediately after each stocking run.  The number is toll free from anywhere in the St. Louis area.  A recorded message lets anglers know when and where fish were stocked, the total number and species stocked.

Anglers are encouraged to call the hotline at 636-300-9651 to get the latest stocking information. 

For information about fishing, go online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z9N.

East Central College Health Information Management instructor Dr. Nanette B. Sayles has been named a Faculty Fellow by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), a national organization that accredits Health Information Management programs across the country.

The Faculty Fellowship distinction honors educators who have made outstanding contributions to health information education through leadership, teaching excellence, and innovation.

Dr. Sayles has spent decades advancing the Health Information Management (HIM) profession through education, research, and service. At East Central College, she has developed and taught high-quality online courses, helping prepare students for careers that connect healthcare, technology, and data. She has also served in national leadership roles, including as a CAHIIM accreditation surveyor and as a member of committees for the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

“Dr. Sayles’ impact on HIM education is unparalleled,” said Dr. Nancy Mitchell, Dean of Health Sciences at East Central College. “Her work has shaped not only our program at ECC but also national standards for HIM and Health Informatics education. This recognition reflects her dedication to student success, program innovation, and professional leadership.”

In addition to her teaching and service, Dr. Sayles is a published author of several textbooks and scholarly articles that have advanced the HIM profession.

East Central College’s Health Information Management program is accredited by CAHIIM. The program offers flexible online learning options and equips graduates with the skills needed to manage patient information, ensure data accuracy, and support healthcare operations.

Learn more about the program at www.eastcentral.edu/him.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is closing its St. Louis Regional Office located on the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area in St. Charles Tuesday, Nov. 4 to make repairs to a water main line leak.

The remainder of the conservation area is open for normal visitation hours and phone calls to the regional office will continued to be answered.

MDC anticipates reopening the St. Louis Regional Office on Wednesday. 5, pending successful repair.

The office’s normal operating hours are Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.  The Busch Conservation Area is open daily from 4 a.m. – 10 p.m.

The MDC St. Louis Regional Office is at 2360 Highway D.

Learn more about MDC locations and facilities, as well as latest weather closure status, at www.mdc.mo.gov.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is actively monitoring reports of sick and dead waterfowl, such as geese and ducks, and raptors across the state. Testing of these birds has confirmed the cause to be Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or “bird flu.”

Avian influenza spreads among birds through contact with infected feces, saliva, or nasal discharges. Migratory birds traveling along North American flyways can carry the virus and it can move between wild birds and domestic poultry. Symptoms to look for in sick birds include tremors, head tilting, lethargy, loss of coordination, inability to fly or walk properly, or trouble standing upright. 

While the risk from HPAI to the general public remains low, sporadic human infections have occurred usually after close exposure. MDC encourages hunters and others to take precautions:

For hunters:

• Dress harvested game birds in the field or in an area away from poultry and other birds.
• Dispose of carcasses and waste properly. Seal them in trash bags and place them in household trash or at a permitted landfill. Proper disposal helps protect raptors, including bald eagles, which are often scavengers and are highly susceptible to avian influenza.
• Allow all hunting gear, boats, and waders to dry completely between trips to help prevent spreading the virus between locations.

For the public:

• Avoid touching dead or sick birds.
• Report sightings of dead geese, other waterfowl, raptors, or other large birds at mdc.mo.gov/4KD.
• Do not report songbirds. HPAI has not been detected in any songbirds in Missouri. These species are not considered a significant concern regarding the virus.
• Keep pets away from dead or dying wildlife.
• If needing to handle a dead bird, wear gloves (disposable if available), consider a face mask, and wash hands thoroughly when done.

HPAI infections in humans are rare. Contact a healthcare provider if experiencing any unusual symptoms of possible infection, such as eye redness, respiratory problems, and fever. It is safe to eat properly handled and cooked poultry. Cooking meat to an internal temperature of 165°F, helps destroy the virus if present.

Get more information on HPAI from the Missouri Department of Agriculture at agriculture.mo.gov/avian-influenza.php.

Turkeys can be seen across many Missouri hills, and folks are invited to memorialize their own gobblers by painting a picture.

People can paint a turkey at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) virtual program “Birds: Virtual Program – Turkey Painting.” This online session, which is Nov. 13 from 6-7 p.m., is hosted by the staff at MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center in Branson. This program is suggested for ages six and up. To register, visit:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/213007

During this program, MDC volunteer Gala Keller will provide step-by-step painting instructions on how to paint a turkey. Participants will need to provide their own painting supplies. Once registered, they will receive a supply list the week before the program and once more after registration closes.

Although this program is free, registration is still required. Registrants must provide an email, so a program link may be sent to them. For this program, only one registration will be needed per screen for multiple participants at the same location.

Program registrants should note that they now have the option to link their children’s accounts to their own, which will streamline the program registration process. Once a group account is set up, parents will be able to register their children for an event without having to log off or log in for each person. This allows parents to register an entire family or select family members for an event at the same time.

To find out more about the Nov. 13 program or other events at the Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center, call 417-334-4865, ext. 0. The Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center is part of MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery and is located at 483 Hatchery Road on the west end of Lake Taneycomo, near Branson.

Staff at MDC Facilities across the state are holding virtual and in-person programs throughout the year. A listing of these programs may be found at https://mdc.mo.gov/events.

On Oct. 28, the Aspen Institute named East Central College as one of 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges.

From approximately 1,000 community colleges nationwide, the Aspen Institute identified 200 with the strongest student outcomes in areas such as retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates.

Colleges do not apply to be considered for eligibility; selection is based solely on national data analysis of student success and outcomes. Started in 2010, this is the ninth cycle of the Aspen Prize. The selection process will conclude in spring 2027, when the Aspen Institute will name the winner of the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff who work every day to help students achieve their goals,” said Dr. Jon Bauer, president of East Central College. “It affirms the progress we continue to make in student success and reinforces our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve.”

Together, these 200 colleges represent the breadth and diversity of the community college sector. They are in urban, rural, and suburban areas across the country and serve anywhere from a few hundred students to tens of thousands. Some of these colleges focus primarily on workforce programs, while others focus on transfer and bachelor’s attainment or a combination of the two.

“The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that, in turn, lead to lifelong success,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Aspen Prize winners offer a powerful message: Community colleges can deliver the kind of life-changing education that makes the American Dream real.”

Community colleges educate nearly 6 million students. Yet community college student outcomes fall short in both the rate at which students graduate and the percentage of students who achieve success after graduation. The Aspen Prize process identifies and celebrates community colleges that demonstrate that achieving stronger outcomes is possible, providing a roadmap of effective practices and strategies for other colleges to follow.

The 200 eligible colleges have been invited to apply and participate in a rigorous review process that will culminate in the naming of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027. Over the coming 20 months, the colleges that apply for the Aspen Prize will be assessed based on (1) student outcomes data, ranging from student transfer and completion rates to employment and wages after graduation and (2) whether they have engaged in scaled practices that led to high and improving student outcomes.

“Among these 200 colleges are some really special places that deliver strong and improving outcomes for students across the board,” Wyner said. “Our job over the coming 20 months is to gather a lot more data and work with a deep bench of field experts to assess which of these 200 stand out so we can not only honor them with a monetary award but drive attention to the most effective field practices that other colleges can replicate.”

This is the first time since the inception of the Aspen Prize that 200 colleges are eligible to apply, growing from 150. This year, in addition to publicly available federal data, more than 600 colleges authorized the use of National Student Clearinghouse data on their institution’s degree completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates for full- and part-time students.

The full list can be accessed on the Aspen Prize homepage.

The next steps in the process include:
• Nov. 13/Dec. 9, 2025: Application deadlines for the 2027 Prize
• April 2026: Announcement of 25 semifinalists, selected based on assessments of                     extensive data and the application by a group of 11 experts in community colleges, higher education, and workforce
• June 2026: Announcement of 10 finalists, selected by the same group of experts
• Fall 2026: Collection of additional data from the 10 finalists, including employment and earnings data for graduates from 2020 and 2025, as well as qualitative assessments of practices by field experts during multi-day site visits to each of the 10 finalists
• February 2027: The Aspen Prize winner selected by a distinguished, independent jury
• Spring 2027: Announcement of the Aspen Prize winner and celebration of the 10 finalists at an event in Washington, D.C.

The Missouri Department of Transportation will host an open house-style public meeting on Interstate 44/Route 50 Interchange Improvements Project from 4-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 6, at the Union Community Center.

The center is located at 1329 Union Ave, Union, MO 63084. There will be no formal presentation.

The purpose of the public meeting is to provide the public and stakeholders with the opportunity to learn more about the project to improve the I-44/U.S. 50 Interchange and U.S. 50/Route AT Intersection.  This public meeting is a critical step to confirm the project goals and gather input to ensure the improvements best meet the needs of communities and roadway users on Interstate 44 and Route 50. This project aims to increase safety and reliability while improving roadway conditions.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the project, and a survey will be available to submit input on the project goals. Join us for an in-person public meeting to help guide the future of this important interchange. For those unable to attend the in-person meeting, the information shared, as well as the survey link, will be available on the project website until Friday, November 21.

Access is available for people with disabilities. Those who require special services at the public meeting should notify Senior Communications Specialist Rachel V. Sudduth by Thursday, October 30, at 314-343-7731 so arrangements can be made.

To learn more information about the project and sign up for project updates, visit Forward 44: U.S. 50 Interchange Improvements Project | Missouri Department of Transportation.                                                                        

The New Haven City Police Department is warning everyone about a fraudulent invoice circulating that claims to be from “The City of New Haven Planning and Zoning Department.”

The fake invoice looks official, it even uses the City’s logo and includes a real-sounding address (113 W. Main Street, New Haven, MO). It list the recipient and requests a wire transfer of $4,953.00, breaking down “approval fees” for things like licensure, legal review, and recordkeeping.

?? Important:

• The City of New Haven does NOT send invoices requesting wire transfers.

• Do NOT send money or reply to the email that sent this invoice.

• Contact the City directly at their official phone number or website if you receive something similar.

This scam is designed to look very convincing — please share this to help others avoid being tricked.

If in doubt, always verify through official city contacts before making any payment. Stay alert and spread the word!

With roadway fatalities in Missouri continuing to trend closer to surpassing last year’s count, the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging drivers to use safe driving practices heading into the holiday and winter season. The effort coincides with the state’s 9^th annual Buckle Up Phone Down Day on Oct. 29, when various safety partners, schools and businesses throughout the state and nationwide encourage safe behavior behind the wheel.

            To date in 2025, more than 700 people have died on Missouri roadways. Of the vehicle occupants killed, more than half were unbuckled. Distracted driving is also a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. In 2024, distracted driving was cited in crashes that claimed 106 lives, though that number is likely higher due to underreporting.

“We’ve made great progress in reducing fatalities each of the last two years, but in the last few months that progress has slowed significantly,” said MoDOT State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Jon Nelson. “Even more concerning is the impact behind each of those numbers. The lives lost are a fraction of the lives forever changed by poor driving decisions. BUPD Day is a call for everyone to take the simple actions they can to keep our roads a safe place to drive.”

Despite notable progress in recent years, Missouri’s downward trend in roadway fatalities is now at risk. In 2024, the state saw its second consecutive year of decline, with a total of 955 traffic-related deaths. However, 344 of those fatalities occurred between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31. If current patterns continue through the 2025 holiday travel season, Missouri could surpass last year’s fatality numbers, ending a hard-earned streak of progress in roadway safety.

“Since launching BUPD, we’ve seen tremendous strides in the form of increased seat belt usage and a decreased percentage of unbuckled fatalities,” said Nelson. “But distracted and aggressive driving remain dire concerns. These next few months of increased holiday travel and potential winter conditions are a reminder of how crucial it is to stay alert behind the wheel.”

Drivers can accept the challenge to BUPD at modot.org/bupd and spread the word on social media using the hashtags #BUPD and #BUPDDay.

 Nothing quite beats seeing fireflies twinkling in your yard as well as hearing the buzzing of bees as they hover from flower to flower. You can learn more about helping pollinators and yard ecosystems flourish during Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) virtual program “Less Lawn, More Life: The Pollinator Plot Twist” Nov. 3 from 5-6 p.m. Register here:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/212741

This online class is for all those curious about seeing native blooms attract pollinators and birds alike. MDC Conservation Educator Stacia Skinner will guide participants through the essentials of fall preparation, planting, and winter seeding to set the stage for a thriving spring landscape.

Although this program is free, registration is still required. Registrants must provide an email, so a program link may be sent to them. For this program, only one registration will be needed per screen for multiple participants at the same location.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual and in-person programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.

The full Beaver Moon rises November 5 this year, and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is celebrating by taking a deeper look into this fascinating aquatic mammal.

Join MDC for Beavers and The Beaver Moon, a free virtual program Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 3–4 p.m. 

Participants will discover the profound impact beavers have had on westward expansion in the United States, the economy of the 19^th Century, and why we should tip our hats to these creatures for how they’ve changed the course of history. 

“We will discuss the significant impact beavers have had throughout history on our culture and the meaning of the beaver supermoon,” said MDC Naturalist, Lauren Voyles.  “ We’ll also learn about the unique adaptations that make them well suited for their environment and their role as "’ecosystem engineers’".

November is the time of year when beavers begin to take shelter in their lodges.  It was also the season to trap beavers for their thick, winter-ready pelts during the North American fur trade era. 

Equipped with knowledge from the program, participants can go outside afterward and view the Beaver Supermoon for themselves, which rises at 4:47 p.m.

Beavers and The Beaver Moon is a free online program; however, each participant must register separately in advance at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o47 to receive an online meeting link.   Log in instructions will be provided for participants beforehand.  The program will be held via Webex and participants will have the chance to use the chat feature for a Question-and-Answer portion with the naturalists.

Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.

 Identifying waterfowl is not only an essential skill for hunters but also a rewarding ability for anyone who enjoys observing wildlife.

People can learn more about how to identify waterfowl at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) virtual program “Birds: Winter Waterfowl ID.” This free virtual event will be from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Nov. 14. This online program is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/212500

MDC Naturalist Jordanya Raos will discuss the variety of migratory waterfowl species that use area waterways in winter. Learning how to identify duck and other waterfowl species (geese, swans) can develop a deeper appreciation for the multitude of these birds that visit Missouri waters each year. Improving waterfowl identification skills can also help hone other bird and wildlife identification abilities.

Though this program is free, registration is required to participate. Use the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. This program will include a chat-based question-and-answer period where participants can interact with the presenters.

MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center is located at 4601 S. Nature Center Way. People wanting more information about virtual and in-person programs being put on in the future by nature center staff can call 417-888-4237. People can also call this number to get signed up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins about upcoming programs at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center and other nearby MDC facilities.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual and in-person programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.

East Central College’s Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program has been recognized by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) with an Outstanding Performance Award for the 2024–2025 school year.

ECC’s AEL program was one of only six in Missouri to earn this distinction among 28 total programs. The honor was awarded to programs that met or exceeded all five federal performance measures, demonstrating excellence in instruction, student achievement, and workforce preparation.

“When a student enters the AEL program, we’re trying to help them improve their reading and math skills so they can move into job training or go to college,” said Alice Whalen, Director of Adult Education and Literacy.

She noted that many students need to take a GED or HiSET test, but not all do.

“We also help them build workforce skills so they can secure better employment opportunities. We know these achievements have a lasting impact on their lives and help strengthen their families,” Whalen added. “We are also proud to now offer new classes that include training for construction, substitute teachers, and nurse assistants.”

As a federally funded initiative, ECC’s AEL program provides vital educational opportunities for adult learners. The program helps students prepare for high school equivalency exams such as the GED and HiSET, while also serving adults who are learning to read or improving English language skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Each student entering the AEL program completes a pre-test to establish a baseline for learning and to create an individualized education plan. Program success is then measured in several key areas, including:
• Skill improvement demonstrated on post-tests
• Completion and passing of high school equivalency tests
• Enrollment in college or postsecondary job training

Additional performance indicators include student employment six and twelve months after program completion, income gains, and completion of postsecondary training. The East Central College AEL program met or exceeded benchmarks in every category.

This recognition highlights the commitment of ECC’s AEL instructors and staff to helping students achieve their educational and career goals, contributing to stronger families, workplaces, and communities throughout the region.

Learn more about the AEL program at www.eastcentral.edu/ael.

Missouri has made progress in recent years at reducing roadway fatalities. Statewide statistics show that these tragic deaths have declined in each of the past two years. However, the Missouri Department of Transportation is concerned that this trend may not continue in 2025.

With highway fatalities now occurring at a rate that may surpass 2024 levels, MoDOT and its traffic safety partners are issuing an urgent call for Missourians to use safe driving practices that are known to reduce crashes and fatalities, especially as we enter the holiday and winter seasons. As of mid-October, statewide fatality totals are only 1% fewer than they were at the same point last year.

Reporters are encouraged to join MoDOT, enforcement officials and community partners at a series of events on Tuesday, Oct. 28, and Wednesday, Oct. 29, to learn more about our shared efforts to combat roadway fatalities. The events coincide with the 9^th annual Buckle Up Phone Down Day, observed on Oct. 29, which is designed to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and importance of seat belt use.

Autumn is an excellent time to enjoy the outdoors in Missouri.  It’s also a great time to start prepping for the colder weather ahead.  The Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Rockwoods Reservation in Wildwood is the ideal location to discover and enjoy nature this time of year.  With 1,880 acres of forested terrain reminiscent of the Ozarks, the area is especially known for its excellent birding and hiking opportunities.

MDC is offering three free public programs back-to-back at Rockwoods Reservation on Wednesday, Nov. 5 that focus on birding and hiking.  All the events are free and open to ages 15 years and up.  Participants can attend any one or a combination of programs.  Preregistration is required for each program separately at the links provided below:

• Winter Bird ID; 10 – 11:30 a.m. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4s
  • Join MDC for an enlightening program on winter birds and birdfeeders. Discover the various visitors you’re likely to encounter during the cold months and learn about the specific feeders and seeds that attract each species. Equip yourself with knowledge to create a bird-friendly environment in your backyard this winter.
• Cold Weather Hiking; Noon – 1 p.m. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4e
  • First timers, beginning hikers or those who want to brush up on their skills, can learn the basics of how to prepare for a cold weather hike. Winter hiking can be intimidating, but participants will discover ways to stay warm and stay safe. The program will include topics on clothing, equipment, suggestions on places to hike, and useful apps.
• Forest Hike; 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4n
  • Take a guided 2.2-mile hike along Rock Quarry Trail and learn about different plants and birds along the way. Participants should dress for the weather and to use appropriate footwear for unpaved trails.

Rockwoods Reservation is located at 2751 Glencoe Road, off Highway 109 between I-44 and Highway 100. 

Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.

East Central College will begin a paving project on campus Monday, Oct. 27, through Friday, Oct. 31, resulting in temporary parking lot and roadway closures.

The work will take place during regular hours to complete as much paving as possible before temperatures drop too low for asphalt. This schedule helps ensure long-term quality, though it may temporarily affect traffic flow and parking access.

The project is Phase 1 of a larger maintenance plan that includes additional paving and resurfacing work over the next few years. The work will involve milling, chip and seal, and asphalt resurfacing.

The project, awarded to Byrne & Jones Construction of Earth City, Mo., will focus on the most heavily used roads and parking lots on campus. The plan includes a two-inch mill and asphalt overlay to improve driving surfaces and drainage.

The total cost is $218,719, funded 50 percent through the Missouri State Maintenance and Repair appropriation and 50 percent with institutional funds.

What to Expect

• Monday–Wednesday, Oct. 27–29:
  Prep work, including milling, will take place throughout campus. The main entrance off Prairie Dell Road will remain open, but drivers may encounter active equipment and lane restrictions. Parking Lots C, E, F, and G will be closed all week.
  Accessible parking will be available in Lot H, and all other lots will remain open.
• Thursday–Friday, Oct. 30–31:
  The main entrance off Prairie Dell Road will be closed as paving work moves to the front drive. Drivers should enter from Audrey Lane on these days.
  The roadway leading to Buescher Hall and Lot D (staff parking) will also be closed.
  Accessible parking will remain available in Lot H, and all other lots will stay open.

Students, employees, and visitors are encouraged to follow posted signs and use caution while traveling through campus. Crews and equipment will be active throughout the work zones.

For help with parking access, contact Campus Police at 636-584-6600.

Additional information and maps are available at www.eastcentral.edu/blog/paving2025.

Prescribed burning can be a valuable tool for managing native plant diversity and controlling undesirable vegetation, but it can be dangerous and ineffective when not used properly.  The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering landowners and managers a chance to learn how to use this effective technique at two free workshops/demonstration burns this fall.  One will be held in Franklin County in November, and the other in Jefferson County in December, weather permitting.

The workshops consist of an online portion, followed by an in-person demonstration burn to gain hands-on experience.  They will provide basic information about how to plan and execute a prescribed burn for grassland management.  Participants will learn about burn equipment, burn line installation, safe weather parameters, ignition operations, and other techniques to safely conduct a prescribed burn.

The dates and times for the demonstration burns are as follows:

• Franklin County
• Tuesday, Nov. 4
• Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4d
• Jefferson County
• Friday, Dec. 12
• Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o4A

Both in-field portions will run from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and require advanced online registration using the links provided above.  Attendees should select the one that best suits their schedule and location.

After registration, participants should e-mail Cody Bailey at Cody.Bailey@mdc.mo.gov to receive exact location information and links to the online training.

The online course is a mandatory prerequisite and can be taken at the participant’s convenience before attending the in-person demonstration burn. Attendees will need to bring their certificate of completion to the in-person demonstration burn.  There is a $25 fee for the online portion that goes directly to the site hosting the training.

Participants should also dress accordingly for the burns with leather boots, leather gloves, cotton pants, cotton long sleeve shirt, and safety glasses. Wearing nylon or other synthetic materials should be avoided.

The workshops are a prerequisite for having a burn plan developed by NRCS or MDC.