The Missouri Department of Conservation administers more than 975,000 acres located throughout the state. About 63 percent, or 615,000 acres, are forested.

The forest land occurs on a wide variety of sites and, as a result, there is a broad diversity of plant and animal communities present. Oak and hickory are the most common tree species, but other important species are also found, such as shortleaf pine, eastern red cedar, walnut, ash and cottonwood.

With two nature centers- your next field trip will be a great adventure.