At its Board meeting at Lake of the Ozarks on February 25, the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation approved three projects benefiting conservation at an amount of $40,000. MCHF approved funding for the following:
Missouri Elk Restoration
The Foundation approved $35,000 for the Department of Conservation (MDC) for trapping, holding, relocating, testing and monitoring elk in early 2011. Funding will help cover costs related to building holding pens in Kentucky and Missouri, feeding, research and monitoring, trapping, transportation and veterinarian supplies.
Rangers of the River
The Foundation approved $1,000 for this outreach program that serves at-risk young men between the ages of 14 and 18. The 30-40 candidates enroll in an intense two- month course which follows a military style regimen of early mornings, hard work, career planning and above all – community service. Last year, MDC staff led the group on a wilderness adventure in the Missouri Ozarks. Funds will help cover the cost of the adventure, which includes canoeing, fishing, and camping on the Current River.
Trail and picnic shelter in Grundy County for Boy Scouts
The Foundation approved $4,000 for the construction of a picnic shelter house and half-mile interpretive trail on property owned by the Grundy County Boy Scouts of America. The property is located southwest of Trenton on Highway 6.
MCHF considers projects that contribute to one or more of MDC’s strategic goals, help promote hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation; promote Missouri’s fish, forest and wildlife resources; improve habitat; engage existing and new partners; and leverage other funds.
