MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION Breadcrumb Home About Us About Us IN THIS SECTION About Regulations Area Management Plans Awards and Honors Business Information Conservation Commission Department Details MDC COVID-19 Response MDC Research Management Plans Mission, Vision, Strategic Plan Body Browse this section for organizational information about the Department of Conservation, from our mission statement to our commissioners and director, and how we manage the fish, forest, and wildlife of Missouri. Body A History of Serving Nature and People Our work began in 1937, when citizen-led efforts created the Department of Conservation to restore, conserve and regulate Missouri's over-stressed fisheries, forests and wildlife populations. During our first 40 years, hunting, fishing, and trapping permits provided most of our funding, but in 1976 an expanded program, the "Design for Conservation," was passed to set aside one-eighth of one percent sales tax directly to the agency. That consistent funding, plus a strong, non-political structure and very supportive public helped make Missouri a national leader in conservation. Today we continue our legacy of protecting our state's wild resources and helping Missourians connect with their natural heritage. Our goal is to sustain diverse, healthy plant and animal communities — well into the future. Read about our latest accomplishments in our annual report. Contact a local office if you would like to get involved in MDC efforts in your area. State-Managed Lands for Wildlife, Communities, and You The Missouri Department of Conservation administers more than 975,000 acres located throughout the state. About 63 percent, or 615,000 acres, are forested. The forest land occurs on a wide variety of sites and, as a result, there is a broad diversity of plant and animal communities present. Oak and hickory are the most common tree species, but other important species are also found, such as shortleaf pine, eastern red cedar, walnut, ash and cottonwood. State forest land provides a variety of environmental benefits including wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation, watershed protection, scenic beauty and wood products. TITLE RELATED CONTENT Title Contact and Engage Body Find contact information for MDC offices, and information about scheduled meetings, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to engage with MDC. Title Annual Report Body Since 2016, the annual report is included in the January issue of the Missouri Conservationist. INSIDE MDC About Us Magazines & Newsletters Blog Area Management Plans About Regulations MDC Nature Shop Newsroom Research Projects RESOURCES Careers Volunteer Login Community Grants & Aid Construction Activities Mobile Apps AskMDC Videos Nature's Calling Videos Fish Story Videos MISSION & VISION We protect and manage the fish, forest, and wildlife of the state. We facilitate and provide opportunity for all citizens to use, enjoy, and learn about these resources. Accessibility Conservation Commission Privacy Policy State of Missouri Terms of Use