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KIRKWOOD, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wants to know what Missourians think about its nearly 1,000 conservation areas around the state. MDC is in the multi-year process of updating management plans for conservation areas and invites public comments.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center in Kirkwood is among the areas under review. MDC is inviting public comment for Powder Valley to aid staff in developing a 10-year management plan for the nature center grounds. Interested persons or groups—including recreational users, neighboring landowners, conservation groups, elected officials and government agencies—are invited to share ideas online now through May 31 at mdc.mo.gov/node/19563. People can also stop by Powder Valley in May to pick up a comment card.
"No matter your age or ability, Powder Valley is a great place to explore and discover nature," said MDC Powder Valley Nature Center Manager Tamie Yegge. "The public input and area planning process we have underway will help ensure that Powder Valley will continue to meet the diverse interests of Missouri citizens who utilize the area today and in the future. Although we won't be able to advance all ideas, we greatly appreciate feedback and will give all comments careful consideration."
MDC staff will review comments as they develop a draft Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center management plan for the nature center's grounds later this summer. Decisions on which ideas to incorporate into area plans and on how to best incorporate them will be based on the property's purpose, its physical and biological conditions and capabilities, the best roles of the property in its local, regional and state-wide context, and on the professional expertise of MDC staff.
The plan will be posted online this fall for an additional comment period, and will be available for viewing at After considering all public comments, the final plan will be drafted, approved, and posted online.
The grounds surrounding Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center contain 112 acres of oak hickory forest. The name comes from the historical use of the general vicinity for the manufacturing and storage of explosive powder used in the Civil War and World War II.
The area has three trails, one of which has interpretive signs and is disabled accessible. Naturalists conduct interpretive programs on numerous conservation topics for schools, homeschool families, civic groups, and the general public. The nature center itself has two floors of interactive exhibits, a public access office and a gift shop.
To reach the Powder Valley, take the South Lindbergh Boulevard exit south from I-44 a half mile, and then go west on Watson Road, then Geyer Road north to Cragwold Road. Turn west on Cragwold and watch for signs.
