Federation Report - January 19, 2024

Grasslands Summit Registration Now Open!

The 2024 Grasslands Summit will be a one of a kind opportunity to discuss the past, present, and future of Missouri's grasslands with resources agencies, business partners, and stakeholders. The Summit is a collaborative effort between many agencies and non-profit partners in an effort to look at what management practices have worked in the past, which have not worked, brainstorm new approaches, and chart a path forward for the grasslands in Missouri. The Summit will be held at the Capitol Plaza in Jefferson City on April 9-11.

Proposed Bill Aims to Ban Invasive Plants

Missouri Representative Bruce Sassmann (District 061), has taken action to help protect the state from invasive plants by filing HB 2412, which would prohibit future sales and intentional distribution in Missouri of five invasive plant species, including Burning bush, Callery pear, climbing euonymus, Japanese honeysuckle, and sericea lespedeza. 

A public hearing of HB 2412 is scheduled for Monday, January 22 at 5:00 p.m. in House Hearing Room 6, the basement of the Missouri Capitol. To submit online testimony click here: https://witness.house.mo.gov/Default.aspx?bill=HB2412&noticeid=8176

To learn more about more bills CFM is monitoring, check our Legislative Action Center: https://confedmo.org/lac/#/

Former CFM Executive Director Denny Ballard Passes at 82

CFM is sad to announce the passing of our sixth Executive Director, Denny Ballard. Denny served CFM from 1999-2003, and was the driving force behind founding our Share the Harvest, a program which will carry on Denny's legacy for as long as there are Missourians in need. A celebration of life will be held on March 9th at 12pm at  Red Top Christian Church located at: 14355 North U, Hallsville, MO.

Voting Now Open for

CFM Board Elections

CFM's 2024 board elections are open for voting until January 31. Check out the nominees' bios and videos on our website HERE and have your say in shaping the future of our organization. Don't miss this chance to make a difference! Elections are an important part of achieving our mission of serving Missourians and their natural resources. You must be a CFM member to vote. Not a member? Join today by visiting our website HERE!

MRBO Host Winter Webinar Series!

Join Missouri River Bird Observatory for their Winter Learning Series every Monday, 1/8-2/25 through Zoom. This is a great opportunity to learn about a variety of different topics, including legislative advocacy, plastic waste, bird migration, and much more! Signing up is free, and you can attend as many sessions as you like. To see a full schedule of the Webinar and sign up, visit MRBO's website HERE.

Don't Miss Your Chance to Win a One-of-a Kind Shotgun and a Box of Non-toxic Ammo!

CFM and Missouri Conservation Pioneers are partnering up to raffle off a rare gun! This is a MDC 50th Anniversary Commemorative 1987 Browning 20 Gauge Pump Shotgun that has NEVER BEEN FIRED! In keeping with CFM's commitment to a no-lead game ammunition future, the winner will also receive a box of Federal lead-free, tungsten, size 5 shotgun shells. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. Get your tickets at our website HERE. A winner will be drawn at CFM's Annual Convention in the Spring.

Become a CFM Business Partner Today!

Join CFM in our mission to promote and protect Missouri's natural resources by becoming a valued partner in our Business Partnership program. For over 88 years, CFM has stood as "The Voice for Missouri Outdoors," uniting diverse individuals and businesses in the spirit of conservation. By becoming a CFM Business Partner, you'll enjoy benefits like a one-year subscription to our magazine, prominent recognition in every issue, and periodic mentions and shares across our social media platforms. Together, let's honor the past, work towards a sustainable future, and achieve extraordinary feats for Missouri's great outdoors. Join us in making a lasting impact! If you are interested or would like to learn more, visit our website HERE, or email mgabelsberger@confedmo.org.

CFM Store Restocked!

Our online store is full of all your favorite merchandise, including our new Voice of Missouri Outdoors shirts! We also have hats, Charles Schwartz prints, drinkware, and so much more! Represent the Conservation Federation of Missouri with some new gear!

If you witness or suspect a wildlife violation, report it to your local conservation agent or call the toll-free number 1-800-392-1111. You may remain anonymous and you may ask to be considered for a reward if you wish.

National Wildlife Federation

Certified Wildlife Habitat ®

Recognize your commitment to wildlife and certify your yard, balcony container garden, schoolyard, work landscape, or roadside green space as a Certified Wildlife Habitat®.

CFM Platinum Sponsors

Thank you to the dedicated partnership from our platinum sponsors!