A Summary of the Missouri Department of Conservation's Annual Report 1996-1997

away from streams and makes payments on 10-year stream-side property easements.

What the Money Buys - Fiscal Year 1996- 1997

Forests-$18,335,499

Conservation Department programs foster a healthy and growing forest resource. Examples are growing and distributing 3.3 million tree and shrub seedlings for public and private land, assisting private forest landowners and Missouri communities, managing 436,264 acres of public forest land, developing the state's forest industry and conducting research on trees and forests.

Wildlife-$18,217,813

Conservation Department programs ensure wildlife populations that are in harmony with habitat and human enjoyment. Examples are management of about 475,000 acres of public land and assistance to private landowners, research and population monitoring of game and non-game species, wetland development, wildlife restoration including ruffed grouse, prairie chickens, osprey and collared lizards and wildlife damage control.

Fisheries-$13,391,525

Maintains the aquatic resources enjoyed by 1.35 million Missouri anglers. Examples are spawning, rearing and stocking over 7 million fish, including 2.2 million catchable-size trout, fisheries management of over 700 public impoundments totalling 272,000 acres of water, assistance and incentives for landowners, fish kill investigations, research and monitoring of fish populations and stream stewardship programs.

Natural History-$1,606,753

Many Conservation Department programs relate to non-game resources and interpretation. Examples are interpretive programs conducted by nature centers and other naturalists' efforts, monitoring populations of nongame species, conducting research and identifying and protecting rare, endangered or fragile species and natural communities.

Law Enforcement-$14,181,009

Paid for law enforcement, resource management, information, education and public service contact activities conducted by 170 conservation agents, hunter education programs and 1,700 volunteer instructors conducting 1,100 classes and certifying approximately 30,000 students annually.

Outreach and Education-$12,403,241

Paid for education materials and contacts with Missouri schoolteachers, the Missouri Conservationist magazine, films, videos, postage and informational programs.

 Administration-$2,219,345

Paid for legal counsel, auditor, summer help and other administrative charges.

Administrative Services and Human Resources-$22,116,852

Paid for human resources, federal reimbursement administration, fiscal services, aviation services, fleet management, building and grounds maintenance, planning, environmental coordination, information management and technology and other essential services.

Land Acquisition, Landowner Assistance, In-Lieu Taxes-$12,846,726

Paid for new tracts and additions to existing areas totaling 30,489 acres.

Construction & Development-$11,418,455

Paid for outstate service centers, hatchery improvements, wetland development, river access site development and the construction of shooting ranges.

Design and Development-$3,357,803