East Central College is poised to benefit from newly passed legislation aimed at simplifying and strengthening transfer pathways for students pursuing four-year degrees.

The Higher Education Core Curriculum Transfer Act (SB 69), approved by the Missouri General Assembly, is currently awaiting the governor's signature to become law.

The act establishes a 60-credit-hour block of lower-division coursework that will transfer seamlessly from Missouri community colleges to public universities offering the same academic programs. This initiative applies to five high-demand fields: general business, elementary education, general psychology, nursing, and general biology or biological sciences—all programs with a strong presence at ECC.

“This legislation provides clarity and consistency for students working toward a four-year degree,” said Dr. Jon Bauer, president of ECC. “It removes barriers, reduces duplication, and reinforces the value of starting at a community college.”

He also acknowledged the support of Sen. Ben Brown, who served on the conference committee and helped advance the legislation important to East Central students.

Under the act, all public colleges and universities in Missouri will adopt a common course numbering system and a statewide course equivalency matrix.

A committee of higher education professionals will work with the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development to implement single articulation pathways for each program area.

ECC students regularly transfer to four-year institutions after completing their associate degrees. Programs like elementary education and psychology are among the most common transfer pathways, and the legislation ensures that students in these areas will be able to carry their credits forward without losing progress toward a bachelor's degree.

“This is a thoughtful, student-focused approach to transfer,” Bauer added. “By creating shared expectations across institutions, we’re helping students make informed choices and stay on track to graduation.”

ECC looks forward to working with statewide partners to implement these changes in the coming year.

The Missouri Department of Transportation will close one westbound lane and ramp on Interstate 44 to Route 50 nightly starting Wednesday, May 14.

Crews will make emergency concrete repairs from 8 p.m. until 6 a.m. on Wednesday, May 14, and Thursday, May 15. On Friday, May 16, the westbound lane and westbound ramp will be closed from 9 p.m. until 7 a.m.

All work is weather permitting. For more on roadway closures due to construction, additional work zone information and real-time roadway weather conditions go to http://traveler.modot.org/map. For real-time traffic, visit www.gatewayguide.com.

Salamanders are a seldom-seen, but fascinating part of Missouri’s outdoors world.

People can learn about these secretive amphibians at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Amphibians and Reptiles: Salamanders of Missouri" on May 29. This online program, which will be from 3-4 p.m., is being put on by the staff at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/207661

Salamanders are a group of amphibians typically characterized by their lizard-like appearance with slender bodies, blunt snouts, and short legs. In Missouri, salamanders can be commonly found in caves, moist leaf litter, and in and around streams. At the May 29 program, MDC Naturalist Jordi Raos will talk about some of the species of salamanders that can be found in Missouri.

Though this program is free, registration is required. Register by using 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 when participants can interact with the presenters.

People can stay informed about upcoming programs at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about upcoming events or how to sign up for text alerts from the nature center can call 417-888-4237. MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center is located in southeast Springfield at 4601 S. Nature Center Way.

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.

Want some free fun that gets family and friends outside in nature? Get hooked on fishing with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Free Fishing Days June 7 and 8. During Free Fishing Days, anyone may fish in the Show-Me State without having to buy a fishing permit, trout permit, or trout park daily tag.

Free Fishing Days is an annual MDC event that takes place statewide during the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June.

Aside from not needing permits, other fishing regulations remain in effect, such as limits on size and number of fish an angler may keep. Special permits may still be required at some county, city, or private fishing areas. Trespass laws remain in effect on private property.

Conservation makes Missouri a great place to fish, and Free Fishing Days encourages people to sample Missouri’s abundant fishing opportunities. Missouri has more than a million acres of surface water, and most of it provides great fishing. More than 200 different fish species are found in Missouri, with more than 20 of them being game fish for the state's more than 1.1 million anglers.

For information on Missouri fishing regulations, fish identification, and more, get a copy of MDC’s 2025 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations, available where permits are sold, or online at mdc.mo.gov/about-us/about-regulations/summary-missouri-fishing-regulations.

Want to learn to fish? MDC’s Discover Nature – Fishing Program provides a series of free lessons throughout the state. All fishing gear is provided. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/fishing/discover-nature-fishing.

Need fishing gear? MDC works with numerous libraries and other locations around the state to loan fishing gear for free. Loaner gear includes fishing poles and simple tackle box with hooks, sinkers, and bobbers. Worms, minnows, or other bait are not provided. Find MDC Rod and Reel Loaner Program locations at mdc.mo.gov/fishing/get-started-fishing/rod-reel-loaner-locations.

There’s more than one way to catch a cat.  While angling for catfish using a rod and reel may be the most recognized method, there are alternative methods that can be very effective too.  These include using trotlines, jug lines, and limb lines.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages anglers to discover these techniques by attending a two-day Alternative Methods Catfishing Clinic, Friday and Saturday, June 13 – 14 at Columbia Bottom Conservation Area in Spanish Lake.  The clinic is free and open to ages nine an up.

“Using alternative methods to harvest catfish from Missouri waters has a rich tradition in our state and is an exciting way to enjoy Missouri’s rivers,” said MDC Conservation Educator, Scott Boyd.  “If you have never used alternative catfishing methods or just want to enhance your skills, then this clinic is for you,” Boyd said.

MDC’s St. Louis regional staff and conservation agents are partnering to conduct the clinic.  All equipment and supplies will be provided.  The Alternative Methods Catfishing Clinic is free, but participants must register in advance and be able to attend June 13 and 14. To register, go to http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4CC.  Only those who can commit to both days should register.

The two-day schedule for the clinic will be as follows:

Friday, 4 – 6 p.m.

Meet in the visitor center classroom to cover alternative catfishing topics such as:

• Bank poles, vertical lines, and trot lines
• Successful tactics and strategies
• Catfish biology and season patterns
• Water safety
• Bait types
• Regulations

Friday, 6 – 8 p.m.

Head to the water for hands on experience by setting and baiting trot lines on the river.

Saturday, 8 a.m. – noon.

Meet at the Columbia Bottom boat ramp to run and collect lines.  This will be followed by a catfish cleaning demonstration.

Participants can bring their own PFDs; however, they will be provided for those who do not have them. PFDs must be worn while on boats. Attendees are encouraged to bring water and snacks/sack lunch.

All participants, unless exempt, must possess a valid Missouri fishing license. Harvested fish will be divided among participants. All registered participants under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

For questions or to learn more about the clinic contact Scott Boyd at Scott.Boyd@mdc.mo.gov.

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is located at 801 Strodtman Road in north St. Louis County.  The area can be reached by taking the Riverview Drive Exit from I-270 and travelling north approximately three miles.

Note to visitors coming from Illinois: the west bound exit to Riverview Drive is currently closed.  Victors must take the next exit at Lilac Drive and backtrack east along Dunn Road to Riverview Drive.

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.

MDC invites anglers to a two-day Alternative Methods Catfishing Clinic, Friday and Saturday, June 13 – 14 at Columbia Bottom Conservation Area in Spanish Lake. 

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows turkey hunters checked 46,562 birds during Missouri’s 2025 regular spring turkey season, April 21 through May 11. The top harvest counties for the regular season were Franklin with 956 birds harvested, Callaway with 873, and Texas with 860.

Young turkey hunters also harvested a near-record 4,449 turkeys over the spring youth weekend, April 12 and 13, bringing the overall 2025 spring turkey harvest to 51,011.

“Great production in 2023 resulted in a large population of adult gobblers this year,” said MDC Wild Turkey Biologist Nick Oakley. “This led to an 8% increase in the overall harvest compared to last year -- and the largest harvest in Missouri since 2006. Continuing to prioritize turkey nesting and brooding habitat is the best way to ensure good hatches in the future, and ongoing success in the field.”

Last year, young turkey hunters harvested 3,739 turkeys over the spring youth season and hunters harvested 43,380 during the regular spring season for a 2024 spring season total harvest of 47,119.

Get more information on this year’s spring turkey harvest numbers by county at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

See more information on turkey harvest numbers for past seasons online at  mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey/turkey-reports/turkey-harvest-summaries.

For more information about turkey hunting in Missouri, visit MDC online at  huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey.

For more information on how to improve nesting and brooding habitat on private property, visit mdc.mo.gov/MOTurkeys.

Senator Ben Brown (R-Washington) proudly announced the passage of Senate Bill 63, what he calls the Homeschoolers Sports Act, on May 8.

Now awaiting the governor’s signature, the legislation permits Missouri’s homeschooled children to participate in public school districts’ sports and extracurricular activities that are funded in part by their parents’ tax dollars.

“All Missouri children deserve equal access to the enrichment and life skills these taxpayer-funded sports and activities provide,” said Sen. Brown. “I appreciate the tireless efforts of the homeschooled families who advocated for this legislation and helped steer it across the finish line.”

Under SB 63, students must adhere to the same practices, attendance and disciplinary policies directly related to the sport or activity as their public school counterparts. The legislation also contains a provision prohibiting the state from requiring a background check as a prerequisite to participate in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program.

One of the most refreshing things about getting out into nature is being able to unplug from civilization and appreciate the basics.  One of the best ways to accomplish this is by primitive camping.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting  Primitive Camping 101, Friday, May 23 from noon – 1 p.m. at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area in Franklin County.  This free course will cover some of the best practices regarding basic camping.  It’s open to anyone age 15 and up.

Primitive Camping 101 is designed for anyone who has wanted to camp outside in a more traditional way but wasn’t sure of how to go about it.  It’s also suitable for the experienced camper seeking to learn additional tips and tricks for overnight getaways in the outdoors.

The class will cover fundamental aspects of camping such as site selection, camping gear options, primitive camping methods, and the art of hammocking.

“Whether you're a camping novice or a long-time nature enthusiast, you're sure to leave with some helpful takeaways,” said MDC Conservation Educator, Kayla Rosen.   

Primitive Camping 101 is free to attend, however online preregistration at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4CK is required.

To reach Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area from Washington, take Highway 47 south 1.50 miles, then Bieker Road south 2 miles.

This program is one of several in a new MDC Outdoor Skills series.  These free classes are for anyone seeking to connect more to nature or hone their outdoor skills.  Upcoming programs include:

• Outdoor Cooking at Rockwoods Reservation, May 7
• Discover Nature Fishing 1 at Shaw Nature Reserve, May 9
• Tree ID + Guided Hike at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 13
• Knot Tying, at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
• Primitive Camping 101 at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
• Archery at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10
• Atlatl at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10

To learn more about these programs or to register, find them at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4sg.

Often, being resourceful is the key to success in outdoor pursuits.  One never knows when they might need to create something out of nothing for comfort or survival.  The key to conquering such obstacles might just be some rope or cord, and a bit of knowledge.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wants to help prepare outdoor adventurers for any potential challenge.  MDC will hold an Introduction to Knot Tying program Friday, May 23 from 10 – 11:30 a.m.  at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area in Franklin County.  The program will teach helpful—potentially even essential—skills. 

This course is designed to demonstrate how to tie the 10 most basic knots useful in the outdoors. MDC staff will explain and demonstrate what each knot is used for.  Participants have an opportunity for some hands on practice by trying each knot out for themselves. Whether for camping or floating, hiking or hunting, learning how to create knots and use them is important for all outdoor adventurers.

Introduction to Knot Tying is a free program open to ages 15 and up.  Online preregistration at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Cz is required to attend.

To reach Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area from Washington, take Highway 47 south 1.50 miles, then Bieker Road south 2 miles.

This program is one of several in a new MDC Outdoor Skills series.  These free classes are for anyone seeking to connect more to nature or hone their outdoor skills.  Upcoming programs include:

• Outdoor Cooking at Rockwoods Reservation, May 7
• Discover Nature Fishing 1 at Shaw Nature Reserve, May 9 
• Tree ID + Guided Hike at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 13
• Knot Tying, at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
• Primitive Camping 101 at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
• Archery at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10
• Atlatl at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10

To learn more about these programs or to register, find them at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4sg.

The Missouri Department of Transportation will close a portion of Route V in Franklin County on Thursday, May 15, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This closure will take place on Route V between Independence Drive and Clearview Road. Crews will set up message boards starting the week of Monday, May 12.

All work is weather permitting. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes during the closure. For more on roadway closures due to construction, additional work zone information and real- time roadway weather conditions go to http://traveler.modot.org/map. For real-time traffic, visit www.gatewayguide.com.

Don’t let a fear of poison ivy, venomous snakes and other outdoor hazards keep you from enjoying the outdoors. Being able to identify plants and animals that can pose problems is a great way to avoid them.

People can learn how to identify and steer clear of problem plants and animals on May 16 at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Conservation Families: Outdoor Hazards. This free program will be 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. and is being put on by the staff at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center. At this program, MDC Naturalist Jordi Raos will discuss poison ivy, ticks, venomous snakes, insects and other items that can occasionally add irritation to an outdoors outing.

People can register for this program at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/207630

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 this program or other upcoming events at the nature center 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 MDC facilities in southwest Missouri.

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

Free trout fishing, a casting contest for prizes, and free hotdogs are enough to make any kid’s day.  Those are exactly the makings of Kids’ Fishing Day, Saturday, May 17 at Maramec Spring Park, located near St. James.  The event is hosted by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in cooperation with The James Foundation.  It offers free fishing and other fun activities for children 15 years of age and younger. 

The park will open at 5:30 a.m. and the Kids Fishing Day event will be held from 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m.  The entire upper half of the spring branch will be reserved for kids 15 years of age and younger. Free daily fishing tags for children will be available to pick up Friday, May 16, at the James Foundation Store and on Saturday, May 17, at the Mill Pavilion by the big tent.  Any car that has a child 15 and under gets into the park for free as well.

MDC will stock rainbow trout throughout the day to ensure plenty of action to keep kids engaged and excited.  Among them will be some lunkers and tagged fish that kids can redeem for prizes.  Volunteers, along with MDC staff, will be on hand all day to assist young anglers.  A limited number of loaner fishing poles will be available, but children are encouraged to bring their own fishing poles and equipment.

The World Bird Sanctuary will be on hand featuring a live bald eagle and American kestrel.  Everyone can enjoy free hot dogs and soda, along with attractions like archery, t-shirt painting, and a casting contest.  There will even be a drawing for big prizes like free guided trips.

The annual Kids’ Free Fishing Day event is an ideal opportunity to help kids discover fishing and enjoy a day out at beautiful Maramec Spring Park, which is home to Missouri’s fifth largest spring. 

The event will be held rain or shine and sponsored by Phelps County Bank, St. James Chamber of Commerce, St. James Trout Fraternity, surrounding Wal-Marts, Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association, Dickey Bubs, Rockin’ C Outdoors, LOZ Lures, Mutzie's Bait, HAWGZ Custom Baits, and Bait WrX.

Maramec Spring Park, owned and operated by The James Foundation, is located on Highway 8 about six miles east of St. James, approximately and hour and a half from the St. Louis area.  The park’s hatchery is administered by MDC and produces about 100,000 trout each year.

For more information about the event, call the Maramec Spring Hatchery at 573-265-7801.  To learn more about fishing in Missouri, go to http://mdc.mo.gov/fishing.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds people that young wildlife they encounter this time of year may appear to be abandoned, but that’s usually not the case. MDC asks that people "leave wildlife wild" by not interfering with newborn or young animals because it can do more harm than good.

“Young animals are rarely orphaned,” said MDC State Wildlife Veterinarian Sherri Russell. “If the young are left alone, the parent will usually return. Parents are normally out searching for food and cannot constantly attend to their offspring.”

Russell added that baby birds are a common type of newborn people want to help.

“If you see a chick on the ground hopping around and it has feathers, leave it alone and bring pets inside because it is a fledgling and the parents are nearby keeping an eye on it,” she said. “Fledglings can spend up to 10 days hopping on the ground while learning to fly. If you find one that is featherless, you can return it to the nesting area, if possible, as it probably fell out.”

Dogs catching baby rabbits and lawn mowers running over nests are other common issues.

“Rabbits seldom survive in captivity and can actually die of fright from being handled,” Russell said. “Even if the animal is injured, return it to the nest because the mother will most likely return.”

Despite what many think, wild mothers do not abandon their young because of a human scent, and most newborn animals do not survive in captivity.

“While people have good intentions, the care and rehabilitation of wild animals requires special training, knowledge, facilities -- and permits,” she explained. “Without such care, wild animals will remain in poor health and could eventually die. And it is illegal to possess many wild animals without a valid state or federal permit.”

Russell also noted that wildlife can become dangerous as they mature, and can also carry parasites, disease, and can damage property.

“Native wildlife can carry mites, ticks, lice, fleas, flukes, roundworms, tapeworms, rabies, distemper, tuberculosis, respiratory diseases, and skin diseases,” Russell said. “Some of these can be transmitted to humans.”

Although tempting to take them into homes, the best help people can offer wild animals is to leave them alone.

For more information on Missouri’s many native wildlife species, visit the MDC online Field Guide at nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/search.

Mill Rock Road (Gerald) will be closed as follows:

• Monday, May 12, 2025 from 8am-3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5079 Mill Rock Road and Red Oak Road.

• Tuesday, May 13, 2025 from 8am-3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5544 Mill Rock Road and 5638 Mill Rock Road

• Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 8am-3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5494 Mill Rock Road and 5540 Mill Rock Road.

• Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 8am-3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5381 Mill Rock Road and 5438 Mill Rock Road.

• Friday, May 16, 2025 from 8am-3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5353 Mill Rock Road and 5381 Mill Rock Road.

Each day the road will be closed to all traffic, including emergency vehicles.

If you have any questions, please contact the Franklin County Highway Department at 636-583-6361

Emergencies situations can present challenges no matter where they happen.  But they can be especially challenging if they occur while outdoors during activities like hunting or camping. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wants to help outdoor recreationists be prepared for the unexpected with a virtual Hunter Emergency Preparation class Tuesday, May 13 from 5:30 – 7 p.m.  The program is free and open to all ages.

Taught by staff from the August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center, this class will focus on planning for unforeseen situations that may occur while hunting in the woods.  The program is ideal for both new and experienced hunters, campers, and hikers.

“Anyone pursuing outdoor activities should understand that emergencies can happen,” said MDC Outdoor Education Center Manager, Bryant Hertel.  “This class is set up to provide general knowledge of what to take and what preparations to make in case something happens,” he said.   

This program will cover basic preparedness, which includes comparing different basic survival gear, first aid needs, fire starting techniques, improvised shelters, and the importance of leaving contact information before you go.

“When hunting, camping, or hiking you hope an emergency does not happen but if one occurs you want to be prepared,” Hertel said.

Hunter Emergency Preparation is a free online program, however advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Cr.  Registrants should provide a valid e-mail address.  Log in instructions will be provided by email the day of the program. 

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.

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) encourages everyone to give fishing a try—for free.  This year’s annual Free Fishing Days weekend is Saturday and Sunday, June 7 – 8.  Any person may fish in state waters without an MDC fishing permit, trout permit, and prescribed area daily tag. Normal regulations, such as size and daily limits, still apply.

MDC’s education staff invites the public to celebrate Free Fishing Days with several special fishing events Saturday, June 7 throughout the St. Louis region.

Each Free Fishing  Days event runs from 9 – 11 a.m.  All fishing equipment, including bait, will be provided, as well as guidance on getting started with fishing.

“Fishing is a great activity for people of all ages. This is an opportunity for people to come out and get an introduction to fishing, without having to purchase equipment or a permit,” said MDC Conservation Educator, Mary Fuller.  

Registration in advance is recommended and can be completed online. Each location and registration link are below:

• Forest Park Hatchery, St. Louis City: http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Ce
• Suson Park, South St. Louis County: http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Ch
• Bellefontaine Conservation Area, North St. Louis County:  http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4C7
• Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, Franklin County: http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4C8

This event is for anglers of all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No fishing permit is required, and fishing will be catch-and-release only. This event is free to attend.  Participants should wear clothing and close-toed shoes suitable for outdoor and water activities.

Free Fishing Days is designated each year as the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June.  However, user fees and permits may still be required at county, city, or private fishing areas.

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.