MPF Webinar: The Significance of Missouri’s Natural Areas System

Since the 1970s, Missouri’s inter-agency Natural Areas System has striven to protect, conserve, and restore the best remaining examples of the state’s varied natural communities from swamps to chert glades. The effort has also been instrumental in introducing new restoration concepts that are taken for granted today. While designated natural areas make up just 0.2 percent of Missouri’s lands and waters, 18 percent of all plant species of conservation concern records tracked in the Missouri Natural Heritage database occur in these special places. Come learn about how and why Missouri Natural Areas are a key component to conserving native biodiversity in the state.

Mike Leahy has a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and a Master of Science degree in Forestry from Michigan State University. He has worked for nearly 30 years for state natural resource agencies. Currently, Mike is the natural community ecologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation. He lives in Jefferson City with his wife and son. Mike enjoys hiking, camping, botanizing, birding, fishing and exploring streams with his family.

The webinar, to be held via Zoom, will include a presentation and a question/answer session. The webinar will be recorded, with a link to the recording sent to all registrants.

Cost: Free

Photo of Greer Spring in Missouri by Mike Leahy.