Public input sought on Westphalia conservation area

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is in the multi-year process of updating conservation area management plans and is seeking public input on how conservation areas are important to Missourians. A draft management plan for Painted Rock Conservation Area near Westphalia is now available for public review through Dec. 31. To preview this draft management plan and share comments online, visit mdc.mo.gov/areaplans.

Painted Rock Conservation Area contains 1,480 predominantly forested acres along the Osage River in Osage County with a scenic trail and bluff-top boardwalks. Painted Rock Conservation Area also harbors evidence of occupation by Native Americans including an Indian burial cairn constructed 500-1,500 years ago.

The forest consists primarily of oak, hickory and bottomland hardwood species, as well as six ponds, managed primarily for wildlife, and a five-acre lake with jetties.

Statewide, MDC conservation areas cover almost 1 million public acres for the purpose of restoring and conserving forest, fish and wildlife resources and for providing opportunities for all citizens to use, enjoy and learn about these resources. Most Missourians are within a 30-minute drive of an MDC conservation area.