The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has entered into a cooperative agreement with the City of Sedalia to manage the lands surrounding Spring Fork Lake. The city will maintain ownership of the property while allowing MDC to manage the recreational, scientific, educational, and ecological purposes of the land.

The area, primarily woodland and prairie, has a high potential for improved wildlife habitat as well as recreational opportunities. MDC conservationists will develop a management plan including invasive species control, tree removal, controlled burning, and prairie restoration.

The land around Spring Fork Lake also serves as an important connection between two previously separated tracts of Paintbrush Prairie, both of which are already managed by MDC. While the properties will have separate owners, MDC can now provide consistent care across the entire area. This will help wildlife habitats thrive.

The City of Sedalia and MDC have an existing agreement through a Community Assistance Program for fisheries staff to oversee Spring Fork Lake’s fish, including catfish and crappie. MDC has a similar agreement with two other Sedalia-area lakes. This years-long partnership is enhanced by the new land management responsibility granted to MDC.