MPF Ozark Karst Fen Field Trip – FULL

Join Kyle Steele of the U.S. Forest Service and Mike Leahy with the Missouri Department of Conservation for a special MPF field trip exploration of Ozark karst fens and related natural communities and habitats in the Kaintuck Valley area of the Mark Twain National Forest south of Rolla. Participants will learn about how hydrology, geology, soils, beavers, and human land uses have shaped these unique Ozark wetlands. Participants will also learn about fen indicator plant species and some species common to both fens and Missouri prairies in addition to some interesting fauna associated with these sites. (Prior to the field trip, participants may wish to watch a recording of MPF’s webinar on Ozark fens, presented by Kyle Steele, Frank Nelson, and Justin Thomas, here.)

When: June 29, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Meet at the Mark Twain National Forest Supervisor’s Office, 401 Fairgrounds Rd, Rolla, MO 65401 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZiUPrUWCTZ4H4N2a6)

Participants will carpool/caravan from the forest service office about a half an hour south to the field trip sites and explore the fens from about 10 a.m. until mid-afternoon, taking a tailgate lunch in the field.

What to expect: heat, sun, wet ground, hike up to 3 miles (moderate), possibly annoying invertebrates (e.g., gnats, ticks, chigger, mosquitoes).

What to bring: rubber knee boots or footwear you don’t mind getting wet/muddy, sun protection, water and hydration supplies, food/snacks, outdoor clothes, insect repellent, sun protection

Minimum of 10 participants, maximum of 25 participants

For those who are part of the Grow Native! Professional Certification Program (GNPCP), this event counts as 3 CEUs. See details about earning GNPCP CEUs here.

Registration is full for this event. Please email moprairieops@gmail.com with any questions.

Photo by Chris Benda of swamp lousewort (Pedicularis lanceolata), one of the fen species participants will see.