SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The public is invited to explore and learn about remnant prairies in Mt. Vernon, Mo., with the Missouri Department of Conservation this summer.
Before the Ozarks was settled, native prairies covered much of Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Today, only about 0.5% of those original grasslands remain, usually as small tract remnants. Most native prairies have been plowed and planted with crops or cool-season grasses, making remnant prairies among the rarest types of habitats in the world.
The department will host "Last Light on Living Landscapes" from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. July 30, at Mount Vernon Prairie. Attendees will meet at Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 4601 South Nature Center Way in Springfield, before driving to the area.
Register online at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com.
This ecology walk will be sensory focused and will include:
Learning what makes a healthy prairie ecosystem and why these remnant landscapes matter
Golden-hour photography moments with warm light on native grasses and wildflowers
Listening sessions as evening insects, birds, and prairie soundscapes come alive
Opportunities to observe seasonal plants, wildlife signs, and changing light as sunset approaches
Participants are encouraged to bring water, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, and a camera or phone to take photos. This is a relaxed, family friendly outing designed for anyone who enjoys nature, photography, or simply being outdoors at the best time of day.
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