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Letters to the Editor

Submissions reflect readers’ opinions and may be edited for length and clarity. Email Magazine@mdc.mo.gov or write to us:

Missouri Conservationist
PO Box 180
Jefferson City, MO 65102

Let’s Be Up Front

I love this magazine! I especially enjoy Up Front. This section is always enjoyable and makes me excited for what is inside. I’ve been reading it for over a year, and it is the best magazine I have ever read.

Rebecca Houghton, via email

What a Darling

My husband and I thoroughly enjoy our state’s excellent magazine. In the November issue, we were delighted to read Sara Parker Pauley’s comments on the efforts to save the monarchs, equating the heroic efforts by cartoonist turned conservationist Jay “Ding” Darling to save waterfowl and their habitats [Up Front, Page 3]. Darling was appointed U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service director in 1934. In 1935, he attended the meeting in Columbia that served as the birth of the Missouri Department of Conservation.

We would like to remind readers who may visit the Gulf Coast of southwest Florida to visit the beautiful J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, an over 6,000-acre wildlife refuge for more than 245 species of birds and an abundance of reptiles and mammals. There are hiking, biking, and car access trails and a museum to inform and entertain visitors. Darling was often called “the best friend ducks ever had.” This refuge honors his efforts. 

Thanks to the Missouri Conservationist we are reminded of the beauty of our state and our privilege to maintain and preserve these gifts of nature.

Julie Wayman, Elsberry

Nature is For All Ages

I originally subscribed to your magazine for my grandson, but before I pass it on to him, I thoroughly enjoy it myself. Nature has always been important to me because I grew up in the city. However, once a year my father took me fishing below Bagnell Dam in the Ozarks and I loved it. I collected all the amazing colored rocks of the area and just sat and enjoyed nature. 

Thanks so much for your wonderful magazine.

Kathy Gallagher, Bridgeton

Good From Front to Back

Every month, as soon as I receive another fabulous edition, I look for photos by Noppadol Paothong. The November edition has his photos on the front and back covers!

Even though I haven’t hunted in many years (mainly doves, quails, and pheasants), I still love to read all the articles. The recipes I’ve used have been met with applause.

Annegret Royal, Weatherby Lake

Correction

On Page 24 of the December 2023 issue, the photo labeled Bald eagle and Canada goose should have been credited to Eric S. (Rick) Wilhoit.