Outdoors

As boat owners and water enthusiasts are getting ready to hit Missouri lakes and rivers, the Missouri Department of Conservation warns boat owners to be on the lookout for the invasive zebra mussel, according to a MDC press release.

MDC offers virtual classes

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows turkey hunters checked 46,562 birds during Missouri’s 2025 regular spring turkey season, April 21 through May 11, according to a MDC press release.

When thinking about farming, insects are usually not something that comes to mind. However, there is work being done to use insects in existing agricultural food systems to produce proteins. Among the insects being looked at for raising and breeding are crickets, mealworms and black soldier flies. They are actually called micro livestock.

Several upcoming classes through the Missouri Department of Conservation will held online.

Spring is here and one familiar sound for beekeepers is the buzz of honey bees.

GLADSTONE — Located in Central Park, 7011 N. Holmes St., the Gladstone Municipal Pool has been a summer tradition in the Northland since 1978. The Pool was renovated in 2007 providing visitors with many new amenities, an expanded concession area and pool deck, shade structures, deck furniture, and play features. In 2022, the bathhouse received all new fixtures and an addition of a party room. Also, the admission gate and office have been relocated to the west side of the building with a new entry off of Holmes Street.

Motorists may see some reptilian friends on the roads this spring season. The Missouri Department of Conservation urges drivers to be cautious as turtles are leaving their winter dens and crossing roads in search of grub and a mate, according to a MDC press release. These reptiles are often hit by cars during warmer months but are at special risk this time of year because they are more active.

The Missouri Department of Conservation reminds people that young wildlife they encounter this time of year may appear to be abandoned, but that’s usually not the case. MDC asks that people “leave wildlife wild” by not interfering with newborn or young animals because it can do more harm than good.