What We Know: For the first time in more than 60 years, the Missouri Department of Conservation will not have an exhibit at the Ozark Empire Fair.
What It Means: The longtime conservation building, known for its live animals, wildlife displays and visits from Smokey Bear, is empty this year.
MDC says it takes about 300 staff hours to operate the display each year, and the aging building also needs costly upgrades before it can reopen.
What’s Next: The department is encouraging families to visit its year-round facilities, including the Springfield Conservation Nature Center, the Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center, and the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery.
The Fair Board president says the fair would welcome the Conservation Department back if funding becomes available in the future.
Information provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation
(Photo provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation)