The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to discover nature through an open house from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. April 4 at its 754-acre George O. White State Forest Nursery near Licking.
MDC staff will provide guided tours on a small bus to show attendees how nursery staff grow and sell more than three million seedlings annually. Visitors will learn how seeds from more than 60 species of trees and shrubs are collected, cleaned, planted, grown, lifted, graded, stored and shipped. In addition to tours, staff will demonstrate the workings of a portable sawmill and answer conservation questions. Smokey Bear will also be at the event.
To get to the nursery, take U.S. 63 north from Licking a half mile to Shafer Road and then go west for four miles. Reservations are requested by calling 573-674-3229.