Photos: Courtesy of Missouri Department of Conservation – Hunters should check specific regulations about methods, boundaries, and restrictions for each MDC conservation area before heading afield.

Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) provides many natural areas open to the public for hunting. Some conservation areas offer wetlands for waterfowl or uplands with small game such as rabbits, while others welcome hunters pursuing big game such as deer and wild turkeys. But hunters should carefully check the regulations for each area before a visit. Special regulations or boundaries for that area may apply.

The use of lead shot in shotguns is prohibited for any type of hunting at 37 of MDC’s conservation areas, including many in western Missouri, as it protects wildlife from lead poisoning. Many types of non-toxic shot are effective and available to hunters.

Archery deer hunters, for example, may find special regulations in place for tree stand use. Some conservation areas have specific regulations regarding hunting methods allowable on the area. A quick reference source is MDC’s 2020 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting & Regulations Information booklet.

Many MDC areas also have no-shooting zones as a safety precaution for public buildings, private property, or parking areas. Hunters should also respect the boundaries between public use areas and private property and not trespass. All trash must be carried home for disposal. Pick up spent shot shells to leave wild lands natural for the next hunters.

MDC conservation areas offer forests, grasslands, wetlands, and woodlands that are shared by visitors. They are beautiful in autumn and free to visit. Courtesy to other hunters, hikers, or birders helps everyone enjoy the outdoors.

For a handy MDC web page to check for areas with non-toxic shot requirements, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zgt. The page also has a useful list of shotgun shell shot types that meet the requirement.