Stay in Touch with MDC news, newsletters, events, and manage your subscription
Xplor reconnects kids to nature and helps them find adventure in their own backyard. Free to residents of Missouri.
A monthly publication about conservation in Missouri. Started in 1938, the printed magazine is free to residents of Missouri.
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Missouri Conservation agents made several arrests over the July 4 holiday weekend for illegal drug use at Amidon Memorial Conservation Area (CA). According to Conservation Agent Grant Gelly, there were nine citations issued by the agents for illegal drug use on the area and three for littering.
"We work hard to ensure citizens have clean, safe conservation areas to use," Gelly said. "Individuals who think these areas are there to use for illegal activities are mistaken and we'll be sure to be out there waiting for them."
Gelly said several warnings were also issued for possession of glass containers and possession of fireworks on the area. Possession of glass on the area is prohibited for safety reasons and signs are posted throughout the area.
"There have been a lot of issues with litter lately in the parking lots and shut-in areas," Gelly said.
Amidon Memorial Conservation Area is a 1,630-acre area located on the upper reaches of the Castor River in Bollinger and Madison counties.
"This area is popular for its shut-ins and is a very beautiful area," Gelly said. "It's important to us, it's important to the people who use it and we hope to keep it in pristine condition."
Gelly said suspicious activity on Amidon or other conservation areas can be reported to local law enforcement or by calling the Operation Game Thief toll free number, 1-800-392-1111. The OGT line is staffed 24-hours a day. Callers may remain anonymous and may ask to be considered for a reward ranging from $50 to $1000 depending on a case-by-case basis. More information about OGT can be found at mdc.mo.gov.
