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Habitat Practices

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Land Planning for Wildlife

Successful habitat improvement begins with a thorough evaluation of your land for its wildlife potential. After making a wildlife habitat inventory, you can create a management plan that will not only increase the number and diversity of wildlife on your land but also increase its overall productivity and value.

Prescribed Fire

The careful use of prescribed fire can actually improve your Missouri woods and wildlife habitat, as well as protect life and property.

Applying Herbicides

Without disturbance, both warm-season and cool-season grassland fields often become dominated by dense sod or a single species of grass (monotype).

Creating Escape Cover

Nearly all animals need cover so they can escape from predators, rest in safety, nest, and raise their young.

Establishing Food Plots

In particular, food plots should not be placed in natural communities such as glades, savannas, or prairies.

Developing Wetlands

Many areas in Missouri could be developed into productive wetlands with little expense. In fact, many wetland areas need only be identified, preserved, and protected.