JOPLIN, Mo. – Putting fish on the dinner table is a great way to end a fishing trip. However, before any fish fillets are put in a fryer or on a grill, anglers need to know how to properly clean what they’ve caught. more

As February unfolds, gardeners and homeowners alike turn their thoughts towards spring and the promise of lush, green lawns. Preparing your lawn for spring during the final weeks of winter is crucial for achieving a healthy turf in the coming months. This detailed guide outlines the essential steps to take in February to ensure your lawn emerges from its winter dormancy vibrant and full of life. more

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Avian flu and rabies are examples of diseases that frequently make news, yet many people don’t know the specifics about where these diseases are found and how they circulate throughout wildlife populations. more

On April 8, the 2024 solar eclipse’s path of totality will sweep across many states, including a swath of Missouri and the Mark Twain National Forest within. more

Missouri turkey hunters can apply online during February for 2024 spring turkey managed hunts through the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) website at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey/turkey-spring-managed-hunts. more

When lost in the woods during winter, survival becomes a challenging ordeal, compounded by harsh weather conditions, scarce food resources, and the critical need for shelter and warmth. This detailed guide explores the survival strategies one should employ if they find themselves in such a predicament, addressing food gathering, water sourcing, shelter building, and the importance of staying dry. more

Preparing for a winter hike in extremely cold temperatures is an intricate and crucial process, involving careful planning, appropriate gear selection, and understanding the unique challenges posed by the cold and unpredictable winter environment. more

Missouri's 2023-2024 deer-hunting season ended Jan. 15 with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reporting a preliminary record-setting total deer harvest for the season of 326,026. This year’s new harvest record surpasses the one set in 2006 of 325,457. more

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites turkey hunters, landowners and managers, and others interested in Missouri’s wild turkeys and turkey hunting to its “MDC Wild Webcast on Talkin’ Turkey” on Wednesday, Feb. 7, at noon.   more

Bird-feeding is a popular hobby that can be enjoyed by all ages, but the first key to bird feeding enjoyment is to be able to attract birds to your backyard. more

Reloading ammunition can be an enjoyable hobby and it’s a way for hunters and sport shooters to customize ammunition and get good shells. more

WS Senior Center to host monthly dance more

The West Plains Daily Quill is inviting readers to delve into their treasure trove of memories and share the tales of their very first deer hunts. In a heartwarming initiative aimed at celebrating the rich hunting traditions of the region, the Quill is calling on hunters, both seasoned and novice, to contribute their personal stories of triumph, disappointment, or humor from their inaugural deer hunting experiences. more

As autumn transitions to winter, lawn care practices shift from growth promotion to protection and preservation. Winterizing a lawn is crucial for safeguarding the grass against harsh winter conditions and ensuring a healthy, robust return in spring. This process involves several key steps, each tailored to the specific needs of different grass types and regional climates. more

In the picturesque Ozarks, winter ushers in a stark transformation, with frost-laden landscapes and biting cold. Yet, amidst this seasonal harshness, a remarkable story of resilience and adaptation unfolds, starring the region's avian inhabitants. The birds of the Ozarks, from the vibrant Northern Cardinal to the industrious Downy Woodpecker, demonstrate a fascinating array of strategies to survive the winter months. more

Preparing a garden for winter is a crucial task for any gardener, as it ensures the health and productivity of the garden for the following season. This process involves several steps, each tailored to protect plants, enrich the soil, and set the stage for a successful spring. more

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has released preliminary data indicating a successful late antlerless portion of the firearms deer season, with hunters across the state harvesting 18,904 deer from December 2 to December 10. This year's harvest shows a significant increase from the previous year's total of 16,241 deer, highlighting the vitality and management of Missouri's deer population. more

Winter camping in the Ozarks offers a serene and starkly beautiful experience, distinct from any other season. The tranquility and challenge of camping in the colder months can be highly rewarding, but it requires thorough preparation and respect for the elements. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your winter camping adventure in the Ozarks. more

As the vibrant colors of autumn in the Ozarks fade and the landscape transitions into the stark beauty of late fall, often referred to as the “season of the sticks,” photographers are presented with unique challenges and opportunities. The absence of leaves and the pre-winter scenery can reveal a raw, more

What is deer season without deer jerky? Learn how to prepare different types of venison jerky with Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 19! This class is virtual only. more