Missouri’s Forest Action Plan is an evaluation of conditions, trends, threats and opportunities facing our forests. It’s also a comprehensive strategy for sustaining these resources and the benefits and services we expect from them.
The forest health program monitors pest populations to ensure forest health concerns are incorporated into the management of state and private forests.
This book in PDF format is a first step toward getting more from your woodlands—whether you are interested in wildlife, wood products, recreation or scenery. It will give you guidelines for assessing your woodlot’s present condition and ideas for creating and maintaining a healthy forest that meets your objectives.
Find forest-industry directories and best practices for managing, harvesting and protecting your woodlot and forest resources. Remember, if you're planning a timber harvest, call a professional forester before you cut. He or she can help you prepare your sale for maximum economic and forest-health benefits.
The next few years will be controversial for the forestry profession. Foresters are being challenged to show a concerned and skeptical public that they can provide for the public's needs while maintaining and protecting the resource.
The Missouri Forestkeepers Network is an opportunity for all Missourians--urban and rural--to get involved in understanding and gaining important information about the condition of trees and forests. By joining the network, you play an essential role in the future of Missouri's trees and forests. Join us.
Related Information
Field GuideIdentify and learn more about the plants, animals and mushrooms near you.
Our free publications help Missouri landowners, homeowners, teachers and students improve their acres, learn about animals and plants, enjoy more fishing and hunting, attract fun-to-watch wildlife with native plants and get involved in special programs. Use this form in PDF format to browse or order dozens of free publications from MDC's distribution center. Note: you must be a Missouri resident to receive our free printed publications.
How Old is That Tree?You don't need to cut down a tree and count its growth rings or use an increment borer to find out how old it is. You can make a fairly good estimate of a tree’s age using this simple formula published by the International Society of Arboriculture.
Plant ManagementThe right kinds of plants can improve your land's habitat and beauty, as well as your farm's profitability. This section shows you how to promote and manage beneficial native plant communities and to control the invasive plants that threaten habitat and crops.
Forests are more than trees. They are also the animals that make the forests their homes, and the birds that nest in the tree tops. They are the clear woodland springs and streams and the fish that live in them. Find out all the ways forests work for wildlife and people, too.
Your woods represent one of your most valuable resources. The decision to harvest, and how to do so, can either improve or set back the future value of your land, its potential for wildlife habitat, its value as a place for recreation, and as a source of enjoyment for you and your family.