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By MDC | January 1, 2026
From Missouri Conservationist: January 2026
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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

Reading on the Road

My husband took our grandson, Calvin, to Blind Pony Conservation Area to go fishing one afternoon after school. He was so excited to receive an Official Citation from Conservation Agent Trent Oberg that day. He loves looking at all the pictures in the Missouri Conservationist and Xplor magazines when they arrive in the mail — especially if there are fish in the magazine. He also loves going to all the fish displays at the Conservation booth at the Missouri State Fair. 

I know Agent Oberg sure made Calvin’s day. 

Betty Faris, Concordia

MDC’s conservation agents hand out Official Citations for Being Responsible Outdoor Enthusiasts to children enjoying nature. In partnership with Sonic restaurants, the citation makes the recipient eligible for one free ice cream cone. —The Editors

Cardinal vs. bluebird

I am thankful for our beautiful state’s official magazine. The photography is wonderful, and the articles educational and entertaining. The northern cardinal [November, cover photo] is my official state bird, no offense to the eastern bluebird. 

Darin Winters, Raymore

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Connect with Us!
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Conservation Headquarters

573-751-4115 

PO Box 180, Jefferson City, MO

Regional Offices

Southeast/Cape Girardeau: 573-290-5730

Central/Columbia: 573-815-7900

Kansas City: 816-622-0900

Northeast/Kirksville: 660-785-2420

Southwest/Springfield: 417-895-6880

Northwest/St. Joseph: 816-271-3100

St. Louis: 636-441-4554 

Ozark/West Plains: 417-256-7161

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Have a Question for a Commissioner?

Also In This Issue

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Snow on a trail
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Cold-weather treks have much to offer the prepared hiker

This Issue's Staff

Magazine Manager – Stephanie Thurber
Editor – Angie Daly Morfeld
Associate Editor – Larry Archer
Photography Editor – Ben Nickelson
Staff Writer – Kristie Hilgedick
Staff Writer – Joe Jerek
Staff Writer – Dianne Van Dien
Designer – Marci Porter
Designer – Kate Morrow
Photographer – Noppadol Paothong
Photographer – David Stonner
Circulation – Marcia Hale