The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announced plans to burn four acres at Springfield Conservation Nature Center Monday.
The area includes bottomland prairie on the south end of the nature center’s grounds and one-acre of savanna on the north end. All trails will be temporarily closed during the burn.
The prescribed burn will help stimulate and improve the growth of native grasses and wildflowers, as well as prevent encroachment of woody and other invasive species in the area. Prescribed burns periodically, under specific weather conditions help maintain these prairie and savanna areas for wildlife. Visitors will notice these areas green-up quickly with new vegetation following the burns…