Conservation Commission

About Conservation Commissioners

Per the Constitution of Missouri, Section 40(a):

  • There are four members appointed by the governor, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, not more than two of whom shall be of the same political party.
  • They shall have knowledge of and interest in wildlife conservation.
  • They serve a term of six years beginning on the first day of July of consecutive odd years.
  • They receive no salary or other compensation, but get reimbursed for travel and other expenses.

What do Conservation Commissioners do?

  • Appoint the director of MDC.
  • Serve as MDC’s policy makers.
  • Approve Wildlife Code regulations.
  • Strategic planning.
  • Budget development and major expenditure decisions.
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Current Conservation Commissioners
Mark L. McHenry

Independent – term expires July 1, 2025

Mark L. McHenry grew up in central Iowa and spent many summers as a child roaming outdoors, which directly resulted in an entire career revolving around nature and conservation. He has over 44 years of experience in the Parks and Recreation field, retiring from the City of Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department, where he served as Director from 2003-2018.

He is currently a Business Consultant with Ochsner Hare & Hare, the Olsson Studio. Mr. McHenry also serves as a member of the National Recreation and Parks Association, American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, Missouri Parks and Recreation Association, and the Southwest Parks and Recreation Training Institute. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Park Management from Texas Tech University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

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Steven D. Harrison

Independent – term expires July 1, 2025

Dr. Steven D. Harrison has lived an active outdoor life and enjoys a variety of hunting, fishing and trapping experiences. He works to provide good habitat on his property and has a passion for helping the next generation learn to hunt and fish.

In his professional life, he is a Dental Specialist in Orthodontics with Parkcrest Dental Group in Springfield. He also serves as Associate Clinical Professor for the University of St. Louis’ Orthodontic Department, is a founding Board Member for Champions of Rolla Education, a Consultant for the American Board of Orthodontics, and former President of the Edward H. Angle Society. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Missouri S&T with a Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences, graduated with distinction from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Dental School, and holds a Master of Science in Orthodontics from the University of Iowa in Iowa City.

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Margy Eckelkamp

(Republican—term expires July 1, 2027)

Margaret F. (Margy) Eckelkamp is a communicator and journalist with an emphasis in agriculture and technology. She is the editor of The Scoop for the Farm Journal. Eckelkamp serves as a mentor and network member for AgLaunch, a technology accelerator, and for Missouri State University's Missouri Small Business Development Center.

She is a graduate of the University of Missouri at Columbia with a degree in agricultural journalism with a minor in agricultural economics. She is a member and past chair of the Griffiths Leadership Society for Women, has earned the Mid America Crop Life Association's Ruth White Media Award, and was selected as a Mizzou '39 recipient, which recognizes the top 39 MU students in their class.

Eckelkamp brings her personal passion for conservation, as well as her professional background in agriculture and communications, to help the Commission and MDC in the work we do. She lives in Washington, Mo., with her husband and two children.

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Barry Orscheln

(Republican – term expires July 1, 2023) 

William L. (Barry) Orscheln is the Chairman and CEO of Orscheln Industries, a privately-owned, third generation business organization, headquartered in Moberly, Missouri.  Mr. Orscheln began his career with Orscheln in 1977 and has served as its CEO for over 29 years. The Orscheln group of diversified companies is engaged in manufacturing, retail, commercial real estate development, and other businesses.

He graduated from Central Methodist College in 1972 with degrees in Business Administration and Economics. He has served with numerous community, statewide, and national organizations, including as Chairman of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, Chairman of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, and as Chairman of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Food and Agriculture Committee.  Mr. Orscheln believes his hunting, fishing, and outdoor experiences have been key in helping build his character and skills.

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