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Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Trees and Shrubs
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The forests of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways are living testimonials to nature's ability to heal. The area was largely deforested in the late 1800s to provide lumber for the railroads expanding across the Great Plains. It is believed that the forest composition has changed since that time, with more oaks and less pines, and perhaps more understory species and less open savannah. Today's Ozark forest is mostly white oak and shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers sycamore and cottonwood are common, along with sweetgum and maples. In the understory, redbud and dogwood are abundant, putting on a spectacular show most springs. sassafras, maples, wild viburnum, nine bark and hawthorne are also common.
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Wildflowers in the Ozarks
Many people are surprised to find that wild orchids grow in the Ozarks. More about wildflowers....
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Visiting With Your Students
Information on field trips, contact information, etc.
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Did You Know?
Blue Spring is 310 feet deep. If the Statue of Liberty was standing on the bottom, the top of her torch would be underwater! It is widely considered to be the most beautiful spring in Missouri due to its vivid blue color. More at www.nps.gov/ozar
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Last Updated: July 25, 2006 at 00:22 EST |
