The outdoors offers the refreshing sights and sounds of nature at Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) areas. However, MDC reminds visitors to area trails, parking lots, and roads that the current coronavirus threat makes physical distancing critical when enjoying the outdoors.
MDC says this is especially important at popular conservation areas and nature centers in or near cities and towns. The COVID-19 virus has caused stay-home directives in many cities and counties. However, a walk outdoors is considered a healthy break from the indoors, if people maintain physical distancing and avoid overcrowding areas. Many people are taking advantage of free time to head outdoors.
For example, MDC’s Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area at Blue Springs has seen a significant weekday upsurge in vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The Burr Oak Woods Nature Center building is closed through April 15 as a coronavirus precaution, and at that point MDC will reevaluate the situation for Burr Oak and other nature centers and offices that are closed. However, the trails, roads, and parking lots are open for public use at Burr Oak and other conservation areas. MDC staff has noted some people hiking on trails are not maintaining the social distancing recommended by health experts.
MDC advises people to make outdoor activities as safe and enjoyable as possible by taking the following actions:
· If you have been sick in the last two weeks, please stay home for your health and the safety of others.
· Travel in a small group of 10 people or fewer.
· If a conservation area looks crowded or an area parking lot is full, please do not stop and find another less-crowded location.
· Keep a proper physical distance of at least six feet while visiting areas and especially on trails.
· Avoid popular spots where people congregate, such as scenic overlooks, fishing docks, etc.
· Pack water, soap and/or hand sanitizer.
· Get more information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on best practices for keeping you and your family safe at cdc.gov/coronavirus.