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Standard staff Advertising staff Kayla Thompson advertising sales director Carlyn Henson advertising designer Editorial staff Diana Dudenhoeffer editor-in-chief Desiree Nixon editor Lillian Durr editor Tinsley Merriman editor Stephen Terrill sports editor Russ Bray visual editor Emily Ostmeyer copy editor Anna Edwards copy editor Eli Slover copy editor William Bohlen copy editor Reporters & visual artists Sydney Arlt graphic designer Jadie Arnett graphic designer Katie Batliner graphic designer Kelsie Bethune illustrator Greta Cross reporter
Cover design by Jadie Arnett
ON THE COVER
An illustration of autumn leaves swirl toward the viewer. I’ve always heard that “fall” is an American term, and that its origins come from the spectacular sight we see every autumn from the deciduous trees that dominate our landscapes. Nowhere else in the world can you see the changing of the season demonstrated so spectacularly. This cover celebrates the gorgeous colors that let us know colder weather is on its way.
Olivia Davis columnist Sinjin Delmore photographer Dorottya Faa illustrator Lauren Johns music critic Gianna Kelley critic & columnist Jalen Lee photographer Reginald Lee Jr. sports reporter Mallory Moore photographer Jade Morrow sports reporter Paige Nicewaner columnist TJ Scott sports reporter Makayla Strickland sports reporter Andrew Unverferth reporter Nicole Walker sports reporter Professional staff Jack Dimond faculty adviser The Standard 901 S. National Avenue • Springfield, MO 65897 417-836-5272 • Standard@MissouriState.edu the-standard.org
New Leaf “stemmed” from a desire to celebrate the outdoors now that students have settled into their first several weeks of classes. The Standard staff hopes this tabloid inspires Springfield newcomers and natives alike to explore the breathtaking gift that is the Ozarks in the fall. The focus on outdoor activities was deliberate, too, since Missouri has among the highest rates for COVID-19 delta variant cases. The pandemic isn’t over yet, so The Standard felt a responsibility to market exciting ways readers can get some distance from the hustle-bustle of the Missouri State University campus and surrounding community. I for one am eager to spend time outdoors and away from the packed lecture halls now that temperatures are cooling down. With summer behind us and a whole semester ahead of us, I hope you’ll join me in turning a new leaf.
- Diana Dudenhoeffer, editor-in-chief
NEW LEAF
is published by The Standard, Missouri State University’s student-produced newspaper. The university has not approved and is not responsible for its content, which is produced and edited by the students on The Standard staff.
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THE STANDARD STAFF WEIGHS IN: Add these fall activities to your bucket list DESIREE NIXON Editor D@DesireeNixon17
A
s an avid planner, I love when the seasons change. I pull out my bullet journal and make a list of at least twenty things to accomplish in the season. With fall you have cooler temperatures, beautiful scenery and the chance to do new things ... you can turn over a new leaf. Take a look at my fall bucket list I compiled with the help of The Standard staff.
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ledge-Wilson Farm or Campbell’s Maze Daze. Pick your best apple for apple butter - Murphy Orchard, Purple Gate Farm and Gardener’s Orchard and Bakery are a few options. Visit a haunted house - Although not for me, there are many places to get your fright on. Dungeons of Doom, Hotel of Terror and Field of Screams are the perfect places to get screaming. Road Trip - If you are not a fan of Springfield, take a weekend trip away. There are many festivals in St. Louis, Kansas City and everywhere in between. See page 11 of this publication for more information. • Run a 5K - If you are into fitness, participate in runs like the Turkey Trot or the Halloween Haunt.
•
Visit a pumpkin patch - Campbell’s Maze Daze, Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, Hale’s Fall Harvest and Pickin’ Patch Farm are just a few local places to go! Get lost at a corn maze - Exeter Corn Maze, Hampton Corn Maze and Verona Corn Maze are a few options. Or while getting your pumpkin you can go to the corn maze at Rut-
• • • •
• Carve a pumpkin and save your seeds to roast! Sprinkle sugar or salt for a fantastic fall treat! • Build a campfire! While your toes stay toasty throw some marshmallows on a stick and make some s’mores. Eli Slover, a copy editor on The Standard Staff, recommends using Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups instead of a chocolate bar. Watch the Chiefs! Or I guess whatever other team you like. Spiffy up your baking skills with a pumpkin pie. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it! Get your fall fashion ready. Wear all of your jeans, flannels and sweaters. Decorate your home, and do not forget to light those fall candles!
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CIDER DAYS What to expect MAKAYLA STRICKLAND Reporter D@m_strickland28 Fall is right around the corner, and locals are gearing up for the return of Cider Days on Historic Walnut Street. “Cider Days is an annual arts and crafts festival,” said Jeff Kessinger, downtown Springfield association communication manager. “We try to bring in some of the best artists and crafters in the region.” The Cider Days festival was almost lost to the pandemic again this year, but the Downtown Springfield Association decided to continue with the festival. “It’s been a rough couple years for everybody,” Kessinger said. “With these artists, this (art) is their livelihood and they missed out on a lot of festivals last year.” Creating a safe environment for these artists and community members while still showcasing
a good time is exactly what the DSA plans to do. When attending Cider Days, people can expect to see social distanced booths, hand sanitizing stations and mask recommendations, according to Kessinger. There will be vendors providing everything from pottery, to stained glass, to paintings. There will be multiple food options including Pineapple Whip, Greek Belly, Mountain Home Kettle Corn and much more. While grabbing a snack at the festival, feel free to check out one of the three stages that will host performances from local performers such as Princesses of the 417, The Bridgetones and the Central High School Choir. Cider Days will take place Sept. 18-19 from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. To help with social distancing and crowd size, tickets will be sold in flights from 10 a.m.1 p.m. or 1 - 5 p.m. Tickets are $5 in advance and at the gate. Children 10 and younger get in free.
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Finding the hammock that’s right for you! LILLIAN DURR Editor D@lillian_durr
popular brands today. Although the DoubleNest Hammock is more expensive than its competitors, and the straps are not included in the basic price, it is a roomy choice made Even with restrictions on hammock-use in of durable, lightweight material. Springfield parks, nothing has ever stopped If it’s within your budget, the ENO DouMissouri State University students from en- bleNest Hammock is a quality choice. joying a sunny day in a hammock. According to Chapter 82, Section E of the Hennessy Hammock Leaf Code of the City of Springfield, “It shall be Lounger XL unlawful for any person while on property or • $79.95 in buildings under the operation and control of the park board to: Attach wires, ropes, plac• Color: leaf green with black trim ards, notices or other contrivances to any struc• Straps included (3’6”) ture, tree, shrub, plant or utility lines without • Weight capacity: 300 lbs prior written permission of the park board.” • Material: 70d nylon This stipulation includes hammocks. • Dimensions: 130” x 59” (advertised This ruling prevents students from hanging as designed for anyone up to 7’ tall) hammocks from trees in city parks, but there • Weight: 1 lb 3 oz While there are limited reviews on Henare still many places to hammock in Springfield, especially on campus. Hammock hang- nessy’s website, Amazon reviewer Daniel ing stands can be found in several locations Mandon commented that the Leaf Lounger on MSU’s campus, including near the PSU XL is comfortable, albeit difficult to get into. and in front of Temple Hall. This hammock has an incredibly unique Before you start your hammock adventure, shape and comes with 3’6” straps, which are it is important to know what to look for in a adequate in length for most hammock stands hammock. There are many different brands and some thin trees. offering similar products; below is a brief Although it is more expensive than many overview of a few similar models offered by competing hammocks, it sets itself apart with popular hammock brands and the qualities that its asymmetrical shape. set them apart.
Eagle Nest Outfitters (ENO) DoubleNest Hammock
• $69.95 • Assorted colors • Straps not included (additional $49.95) • Weight capacity: 400 lbs • Material: nylon taffeta • Dimensions: 9’ x 6’6” • Weight: 19 oz Reviews found on ENO’s website highlight the DoubleNest Hammock as roomy, quick to dry after rainfall, lightweight and easy to set up. Many avid hammock users will recognize this brand and agree that it is one of the most
Fox Outfitters NEOLITE XL: Double Hammock • • •
$47.95 Assorted colors Two 5’6” straps with “tree friendly” sleeves included • Weight capacity: 400 lbs • Material: woven nylon • Dimensions: 10’6” x 6’6” • Weight: 19 oz Reviews on Fox Outfitters’ website herald the hammock as durable, compact and extremely comfortable. The NEOLITE XL is also the cheapest of the models included in this review. Additionally, it comes with longer straps than Hennessy’s Leaf Lounger XL and includes
Graphic by Sydney Arlt Q@sydneyarlt.png One of our stellar graphic designers drew me doing one of my favorite activities: hammocking. In this story you can read about what hammock is best for your lifestyle. tree friendly sleeves for them. This makes it compatible with both hammock stands and thicker trees. Overall, the Fox Outfitter NEOLITE XL appears to provide plenty of bang for your buck.
Grand Trunk Double Deluxe Parachute Nylon Hammock • • •
$49.95 Assorted colors Includes two 5’ x 2” ‘Tree Friendly’ hammock straps • Weight capacity: 400 lbs • Material: 210T 70D parachute nylon • Dimensions: 10’6” x 6’6” • Weight: 28 oz The reviewers of the Double Deluxe Para-
chute Nylon Hammock on Grand Trunk’s website like its generous size and breathable fabric. One reviewer claims their hammock lasted more than eight years. The straps are comparable to those included with the Fox Outfitters NEOLITE XL, and it is only slightly more expensive. It is also the same length and width as the NEOLITE XL, although it is 9 oz. The two hammocks are very similar, and they are mostly differentiated by their weight and the type of nylon used. If you are interested in purchasing a hammock, there are countless models and brands not listed above. Nonetheless, I hope my overview of some popular choices helps you turn a new leaf and begin your hammocking adventure.
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SPIKEBALL:
The volleyball and four-square lovechild is taking fall by storm OLIVIA DAVIS Columnist D@0liviadiane
has earned 21 points. The familiarity of the game makes it inviting to new players of any skill level. Spikeball is accessible to everyone, and one of the official It can be difficult to find a quick way to have Spikeball values is, “Be intentionally inclusome fun between classes; however, the recent- sive.” The game achieves this by being a game ly popularized game Spikeball can change that. that can be played by anyone no matter the Spikeball Inc. was created in 2008, with the circumstances, including younger players, and company’s headquarters in creator Chris Rud- those who might have less mobility. er’s basement in Chicago. As of 2021, Spikeball “Spikeball is especially fun since you don’t Inc. is a multi-million dollar company with have to be good to play it, you just have to try millions of players worldwide. your best,” Elder said. Of course, there is room for the more skilled The game has been described as “if volleyball and foursquare had a baby,” according to Spikeball players in the community. According the official Spikeball Inc. website, and it is easy to the official Spikeball website, Marshall Harto see why. Spikeball is the perfect game for ris of ESPN stated that Spikeball is “easy to those who want the experience of volleyball learn but difficult to master.” but do not have the equipment, room or enough For more experienced spikeball players, people. tournaments are available for official teams or anyone looking for a little more competition in their game. For those of you curious about joining a local tournament or creating your own on campus, you can simply download the official Spikeball app. Once downloaded, you will have the option to create a tournament. You can choose all of the details of your tournament, such as date, time and the players invited, and the fun can begin! Image by Guillermo Ledezma thenThough the rules A spikeball player prepares to hit as the ball sails through are simple, the game the air. Image licensed under Attribution 2.0 Generic from can prove to be very challenging. For colthe Creative Commons. lege students, it’s the Lydia Elder, a freshman psychology major, perfect combination of ease and fun. agreed: “I love Spikeball since it’s like a little Ryleigh Maple, a sophomore global studies game of volleyball. It’s just different enough, major, stated that “Spikeball is a great way to have fun with your friends while relieving though.” The most basic form of the rules features a stress, but it’s also like a workout.” It is easy to understand the rise in populartwo-versus-two game, with one team hitting a small ball down into a round net on the ground. ity of Spikeball after seeing all of the reasons After that, the second team has three hits to that people love it. If you are ever in the mood return the ball. Play continues until one team to try a fun but challenging pickup game, gathfails to return the ball, resulting in a point for er some friends and try out Spikeball this sethe other team. The game ends when one team mester. It just might surprise you.
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The Ozarks has camping, floating and hiking spots for all skill levels LAUREN JOHNS Music Critic D@lje2017
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Regardless of whether you are an avid hiker, floater or camper, or if you’ve only seen trees via Google search, there are a vast range of options for parks and trails for all skill levels in and around The Ozarks. If you’re unsure where to start, the Missouri State Foster Recreation center has a program called Outdoor Adventures. “Our program officially started in 2012 when Foster first opened,” said Austin Money, Assistant Director of Outdoor Adventures. “We have a similar activity offering from semester to semester with kayaking, hiking, rock climbing and caving. We try to switch up locations based on interest, but we do have our staples.” According to Money, as long as you have access to Missouri State’s facilities, you are allowed to participate. “This semester we’re offering kayaking, rock climbing, camping, route setting and trip geology all once a week every week until Thanksgiving break,” Money said. Those interested in getting involved with Outdoor Adventures at Foster Recreation Center can visit https://recportal.missouristate.edu. A real enthusiast can purchase a $25 pass for the semester, which allows them to register for as many trips as they’d like. If you don’t have access to the Recreation Center, or if you just prefer to blaze your own trail, grab a few friends or loved ones and take advantage of what is available in your area. Sydney Johnson, junior education major at Webster University in St. Louis, would not consider herself to be an avid hiker but enjoys going with her family nonetheless. “I have grown up going on float trips and camping trips with my family,” Johnson said. “During quarantine however, we started hiking as a way to have some fun while avoiding other people. Now, we go a few times a month and even incorporate hiking into our family vacations.” Johnson recommends the Springfield Conservation Center to beginners since it is mostly paved. She also enjoys going to Sequiota Park because you can choose your level of difficulty. Both parks are on the southeast side of Springfield. Paiton Fritsche, senior microbiology major at Missouri State, is more experienced with the outdoors. She first got into backpacking around three years ago and recently accomplished a 20-mile trip in the Mark Twain Forest. Fritsche said she feels free being able to go into the woods for miles with only the items she can carry on her back. “It gives me a feeling of independence and a connection with an inner primal sense of self,” Fritsche said.
Fritsche prefers Mark Twain National Forest for backpacking and loves Hercules Glades in Bradleyville, Missouri, for its gorgeous waterfall and 11-mile loop.
Photo by Russ Bray Q@russ.bray A great blue heron looks for a meal in Lake Springfield on Saturday, Sept. 5. The lake is a part of the Springfield Conservation Center.
As an avid adventurer, Fritsche has a wide array of gear at her disposal. “For the basic necessities, I have a solid backpack with an internal frame, a lightweight sleeping bag for the weather, a lightweight tent and food on hand for longer treks,” Fritsche said. “I also like to have a Sawyer straw or LifeStraw for filtering water. It is very difficult to carry enough water, so using the resources provided by the Earth is essential.” According to Ryan E. McDonald, assistant general manager at the Springfield Bass Pro Shops, hikers and campers should pack carefully. “Think about the wildlife you may encounter,” McDonald said. “If it’s an area known to have a high concentration of venomous snakes, you may want to think about snake-proof boots or gaiters. If there are bears, it would be a good idea to include bear spray in your pack. It is also very important to let others know where you will be and to set a timeline for your trip, so they can react if you don’t return in a timely manner.” McDonald strongly urges everyone to experience all that the environment has to offer, as well as observing and participating in proper conservation habits. “As our founder Johnny Morris, a world leader in conservation, says, ‘We all live downstream,’” McDonald said.
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Discover the night sky at the best stargazing spots in the Ozarks PAIGE NICEWANER Columnist D@indienerdtrash
linek said. “It was like nothing I had ever seen before.” To find out more information about stargazing at the Buffalo National River, check out its website at www.buffaloriver.com or call 1-870-8615514.
With the widespread presence of light pollution, it can be hard to find nearby places where stargazers can look up and see a sky full of stars. Traveling deeper south toward the Ozarks, people can find locations with very low light pollution, making the area great for stargazing. All three hours away or fewer, check out some of the best stargazing spots near Springfield.
Buffalo National River
Experience the starry night sky at Buffalo National River in Northern Arkansas, about an hour and a half south of Springfield. The Buffalo National River recently gained the status as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association in 2019. The Buffalo National River is the first park in Arkansas to be given this
Hobbs State Park
Photo by Russ Bray Q@russ.bray The night sky shines bright on Wednesday Sept. 8. outside Springfield. Most of these stars are outshined by the lights of Springfield but can be spotted with as little as a 40-minute drive to some of the more rural parts of southwest Missouri.
title, according to the National Park Service website. Sarah Jellinek, senior dietetics major, said Buffalo National River is one of her
favorite spots to see a sky full of stars. “I went camping there last year and could not believe how well I could see the stars,” Jel-
Hobbs State Park is the largest state park in Arkansas, located two and half hours southwest of Springfield in Rogers, Arkansas. Because of the minimum human impact, the park offers a great view of low-polluted skies, as well as camping sites and lodging to spend the night, according to its website. Donnie Houston, a member of the Facebook group Ozarks Stargazers, said Hobbs State Park is one of his and his wife’s favorite stargazing spots. “My wife and I have been amateur astronomers for many years,” Houston said. “Our advice is: If given the opportunity for a dark sky location,
do not hesitate to go.” For more information about Hobbs State Park, visit the Arkansas State Parks website at www.arkansasstateparks.com/ parks/hobbs-state-park-conservation-area.
To learn more information about the Mark Twain National Forest, visit the United States Department of Agriculture website at www.fs.usda. gov/mtnfor or call 573-3644621.
Mark Twain National River of Life Farm Forest Located about two hours Midway between St. Louis and Springfield in Rolla, the Mark Twain National Forest— the only national forest in Missouri—is a great area for beginning stargazers to check out. According to the United States Department of Agriculture website, the Mark Twain National Forest is made up of over 1.5 million acres of public land in Missouri, making it a large area for people to explore the best stargazing spots inside the forest. The Mark Twain National Forest offers dispersed camping areas where individuals can spend the night, layout and look at the stars.
southeast of Springfield in Dora, Missouri, the River of Life Farm is a stargazing hotspot. Because of the low light pollution in the area, stargazers get a great view of the Milky Way. The River of Life Farm also offers lodging and camping options, nearby restrooms and no additional cost for using observation fields for stargazing, according to their website. “The sky at River of Life Farm on a clear, moonless night is breathtaking,” its website stated. For more information about stargazing at the River of Life Farm, visit their website at www.riveroflifefarm.com.
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Fall times beyond the 417! DESIREE NIXON Editor D@DesireeNixon17
While the Springfield-Greene County area has lots to offer in the fall season, the rest of the state does not disappoint. From frighting times in the ‘Lou to apple butter in Mt. Vernon, the Show-Me State has something for everyone.
Graphic by Desiree Nixon Q@desireemnixon As we start our trip across the state, this weekend, Sept. 16-18, Humansville will be having its annual fall festival. According to the Humansville Facebook page, the theme is Hometown Pride. The latest updates regarding the event will be uploaded to www.facebook. com/humansvillefallfestival. When Missouri State University leaves for fall break on Oct. 7-8, students can visit different festivals. One of those is Apple Butter Makin’ Days which is held annually in Mt. Vernon. “We invite everyone to Stir the Pot and learn how apple butter is made on the historic Lawrence County Courthouse lawn. Featuring 450+ booths of handmade crafts, this event draws nearly 90,000 visitors each year,” Mt. Vernon Chamber of Commerce said on its website. “The fair-style food supports Lawrence County non-profit organizations and offers a great variety for your taste buds. This free festival
NEW LEAF | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2021 | 11
THE STANDARD has been pleasing crowds for over 50 years and just keeps getting better.” For more information on Apple Butter Makin’ Days visit www.mtvchamber.com/apple-butter-makin-days. While students are on break, they can go to one of the three main theme parks across the state. Silver Dollar City in Branson will be having Harvest Festival, Worlds of Fun will host Halloween Haunt, and Six Flags will have Fright Festival. “Experience Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival featuring Craft Days filled with new artisans each week,” Silver Dollar City said on its website. “And Pumpkins In The City by night with thousands of illuminated pumpkins with non-frightful fun for the entire family!” To read about ticket prices and times of operation see www.silverdollarcity.com/themepark/Festivals/Harvest-Festival. The I-70 cities of Kansas City and St. Louis have spooky experiences for all. Worlds of Fun in Kansas City has ghosts, goblins, monsters and everything in between. “As darkness falls, fear rises when the Overlord calls his army to transform the park into Halloween Haunt,” Worlds of Fun said on its website. “This Halloween event allows you to experience the thrills of your favorite rides and the chills of extreme haunted attractions as you navigate the fog-filled midways where over 400 monsters lurk to feed off your screams.” Six Flags in St. Louis has events all day. According to the Six Flags website, “Fright Fest is back and spookier than ever. Dare to enter the Halloween event of the season, featuring family-friendly attractions during the day ... and thrills once the sun goes down.” Julia Givens, a junior marketing and advertising major, has been to Fright Fest before. She said she would most definitely visit it again. “My experience has always been that it is so much fun going,” Givens said. “It gives you a good scare, many laughs and good memories. It’s never too scary but definitely leaves you spooked leaving the park.” If theme parks are not your thing, visit a drive-in theater. Both the Seymour Owen Theatre and the Aurora Sunset Drive-In Theatre have showings each weekend. For the complete list of the when and where, take a peek at this list! • • • • • • •
Harvest Festival at Silver Dollar City Sept. 24-Oct. 30, 2021 Humansville Fall Festival - Sept. 16-18, 2021 Fright Fest at Six Flags - Sept. 24-Oct. 31, 2021 Halloween Haunt at Worlds of Fun - Sept. 17-Oct. 30, 2021 Seymour Owen Theatre - Different showings each weekend Aurora Sunset Drive-In Theatre - Different showings each weekend Apple Butter Makin’ Days - Oct. 8-10, 2021
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HOTEL OF TERROR: Daring to explore Springy’s haunted Halloween staple GIANNA KELLEY Columnist D@gianna_kelleyyy
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It’s the start of the spooky season, and Springfield has many Halloween festivities to choose from. As a Springfield local, one of the most timeless traditions during the ghostly season is visiting the Hotel of Terror and Dungeons of Doom—two of Springfield’s oldest and largest haunted houses. Hotel of Terror has four hair-raising floors, and at the end, you get to exit down a 96-foot slide. Established in 1978, Hotel of Terror was one of the first haunted houses in Springfield. It was opened for the locals to have something fun and safe to do during the fall holiday. The haunted houses have greatly evolved since the ‘70s. Every year they find a new feature to add or some way to improve their scares.
The owners write on their website, “We have had the privilege to scare your grandparents, parents, you, your kids and grandchildren to come for 40-plus years and look forward to many more.” The Hotel of Terror was ranked #4 in the Four State Magazine in 2018. Hotel of Terror is located only four minutes away from campus on Main Avenue they recently added a new haunt to the terror experience which is just a block down from Terror: Dungeons of Doom. Tickets can be purchased for either one of the haunted houses, or you can get a combo pass. They offer free hay and hearse rides to and from both haunts. All of the classic horror movie villains come to life. They even have a returning scarer that’s dressed up as Chucky. They have the classic insane asylum scenes, animatronics, a chainsaw killer, horrifying clowns and much more. They are even the home to a real ghost. James River Ghost Hunters certified that Hotel of Terror has fulfilled the requirements of true Paranormal activity — a little girl on the third floor. During your visit, you may get to meet a permanent uninvited guest! Tickets for Hotel of Terror and Dungeons of Doom are $20 a person, and $35 for the combo pass. The haunted houses are open from Sept. 10 - Oct. 31. Both sites will follow Springfield’s Health Department guidelines and will stay informed on Springfield’s COVID-19 policy updates. Hotel of Terror has horror movies projected on the side of the building that is free for everyone to experience. After attending the haunted houses, you can tailgate in the trunk of your car and cozy up to some classic horror films with some hot cocoa or apple cider, available at the concession stand. This year, celebrate the Halloween season with some friends and come down to the infamous haunted houses; it’ll become a tradition!
Illustration by Dorottya Faa Q@disaaky
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‘IT’S NOT EASY BEING GREEN’ Lake at Sequiota Park combats algae blooms with floating wetlands DIANA DUDENHOEFFER Editor-in-Chief D@kisstein Sequiota Park, a 28-acre park on the southeast side of town, has a number of picturesque features that make it one of Springfield’s favorites: walking trails, playgrounds, caves and the iconic “big rock,” to name a few. One prominent element that makes Sequiota special is its lake. The lake is a part of a much larger watershed that stretches north to Sunshine Street, so runoff from many homes and businesses flow downstream and end up at Sequiota Park via cave systems. With this runoff comes a slew of chemicals and nutrients that can be detrimental to the habitat. Algae blooms have dominated the surface of the lake for years. Sarah Davis is a stormwater specialist with the City of Springfield’s Department of Environmental Services. She and her colleagues at the Water Quality Division knew they needed to get cre-
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Photo by Diana Dudenhoeffer Q@loveapongo Geese swim among several floating wetlands at Sequiota Park on Thursday, Sept. 9. ative to solve the algae problem. “Algae blooms are a symptom of an excess of nutrients in a storm water system,” Davis said. Phosphorus and nitrogen especially contribute to the problem. These nutrients can come from a variety of sources, the main offenders being lawn fertilizers. The lake at Sequiota Park was an easy choice for Davis and her team to
start a new project because algae blooms have been a significant, ongoing problem there. After several remedy attempts — including chemical treatments and dredging — the Water Quality Division turned to a new solution in the form of floating wetlands. Floating wetlands are artificial aquatic habitats that aim to mimic natural wetlands. Around 45 of these roughly
8-by-10-foot structures are anchored to the bottom of the lake. According to MidwestFloatingIsland.com, a floating wetland can have a number of applications beneficial to a watershed, including wetland restoration, erosion control and carbon sequestration. Each wetland has a variety of native plants on it, including irises, pickerelweed, rose mallow and arrowwood. The plants are surrounded by chicken wire to prevent waterfowl from landing on the structures and eating the plants. Clusters of four to five wetlands float together on the lake, fixed to each other by carabiners and leftover metal posts from traffic signs. Floating wetlands make for a valuable solution to algae blooms and excess nutrients because they serve multiple functions, including increasing pollination in the lake ecosystem, oxygenation and an added element of beauty to the park, according to Davis. Additionally, the wetlands make for a valuable habitat to the animals that call the park home. As roots grow into the water below, they create a microbiome of bacteria that becomes a valuable source of food for the fish. “What we try to do in (the Water Quality Division) is find these unique
practices that provide multiple benefits to the community,” Davis said. “The floating wetlands are a good example of what we call, in a larger term, ‘green infrastructure.’ Green infrastructure are practices that mimic nature and biological processes.” Despite the floating wetlands’ efforts to combat the issue, the lake at Sequiota Park continues to bloom. Ongoing sampling shows the wetlands “have not made a big dent” in the algae problem, Davis said. Davis said she suspects there just aren’t enough wetlands in the lake to make a meaningful difference. Around 5% of the lake’s surface — several thousand square feet — would need to be covered by plant matter to take up all the nutrients in the system. Regardless of nutrient uptake, the floating wetlands give a variety of benefits to the lake and surrounding park. One is an educational gain. Signs posted in Sequiota Park can help visitors learn about water quality, biodiversity and the lake’s ecosystem. There are aesthetic benefits too; the wetlands provide both color and texture to the lake. Other methods, such as chemical applications, may temporarily reduce algae but do not offer any of those other types of benefits, Davis said.
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Explore the secrets of Springfield, all with a GPS GRETA CROSS Reporter D@gretacrossphoto Disclaimer: This story includes potential hints for geocache locations in Springfield. Hint: “One of the 3 diamonds. Fish for it.” Three red, reflective road signs, some would say shaped like diamonds, indicate the end of a roadway. Tucked neatly inside one of the sign’s posts is a film container tied to a string, which must be “fished” out to reveal the contents. Inside is a folded piece of notebook paper with various names and dates. The film container and paper log sheet represent a cache, part of a global treasure hunt called geocaching.
Photos by Greta Cross Q@gretacrossphoto A small composition book, serving as a log book, and bag of small trinkets is a hidden cache in the Rountree neighborhood. Geocachers are encouraged to log their name and date in the log book. owners prior to creating the geocache location. According to National Geographic, “Geocaching can be described as a series of hideand-seek games, where hiders provide online clues for seekers. Seekers use (GPS) devices to find hidden caches.” After registering for a geocaching service, seekers look for coordinates or follow GPS
directions to caches. Caches may include a water-resistant container and log sheet, where seekers can log their name, the date or other information they wish about their journeys to the cache. Not all caches include a physical container though. Some are indicated with a QR code sticker, which can be scanned to reveal information about the “hider” and when the location was created.
Exploring Springfield safely
Frisch said her interest in geocaching has ebbed and flowed since she first started nearly 13 years ago, but over the last year and a half she has found herself participating more. “During COVID-19, it became something I really liked doing again because it is a good social distancing activity,” Frisch said.
‘Great American GPS Stash Hunt’
According to Geocaching.com, Geocaching was created on May 3, 2000 by computer consultant Dan Ulmer. Interested in testing the accuracy of new GPS technology made available worldwide on Blue Switch Day — May 2, 2000 — Ulmer hid a navigational target in a black bucket in the woods near Beavercreek, Oregon. He shared the target’s coordinates online, coined his experiment the “Great American GPS Stash Hunt” and waited for results. “Within three days, two different (people) read about his stash on the Internet, used their own GPS receivers to find the container and shared their experiences online,”Geocaching. com reports. After a month, the first person to find Ulmer’s stash began collecting the coordinates of others hidden around the world, compiling them on a website for those interested. According to Geocaching.com, “Geocaching” was officially coined on May 30, 2000, not even a month after Ulmer’s first stash was hidden. In the beginning, the activity was limited to those with experience using a GPS device, but it didn’t take long to grow. Now, millions of geocaches exist across the world in nearly 200 countries.
A small, rolled piece of paper includes the scribbles of geocachers at a cache in Springfield. Typically, caches include log books, or like this cache, a single rolled piece of paper for geocachers Three reflective road signs indicate to jot down their name and the date. the end of a road but also serve as a clue for a nearby geovcache container app, require “hiders” to rank the type of terrain in Springfield. A small film containtheir cache is located on a scale of one to five. er tied to a string was neatly placed On the app’s scale a one star ranking is deNumerous geocaching services exist, but scribed as less than a half mile hike and wheel- inside the far right sign’s post.
Getting started
most provide users with GPS coordinates and directions, clues and hints to finding caches and the ability to message other cachers in one’s community. If the option to physically log at a cache is unavailable, services may also allow users to log virtually by sharing a photo from the location. Rachel Frisch, a Missouri State alumna, began geocaching in middle school. Frisch advises new geocachers to research the area where a cache is located before visiting. “If you’re going somewhere you haven’t been before, look up if it’s hilly, muddy, that kind of thing, so you can be prepared, so you don’t show up in Birkenstocks and get mud halfway up your leg,” Frisch said with a laugh. “...speaking from experience.” Geocaching services, like the Geocaching
chair accessible. A five star ranking requires specialized equipment, such as scuba or rock climbing gear. The Geocaching app also requires the difficulty of finding a cache to be ranked on a scale of one to five. For example, a cache rated one on the app is described as “easy to find or solve within a few minutes.” A five however, requires “special knowledge, skills, tools or significant effort to find, solve or open the cache.” Besides using a geocaching app, Frisch said she uses blogs from members in the geocaching community to learn about a location’s difficulty and terrain. Geocaching.com manages a blog, which includes “geocaches of the week,” challenges and tips.
One of Frisch’s favorite geocache locations was located at a Springfield public school near campus. The cache was hidden in an outdoor classroom and included trinkets related to the school. Frisch said the last time she visited this cache was two and a half years ago, so it may no longer exist. This location is not logged on the Geocache app. “I just love having something to do out in nature because walks are nice, but (geocaching) just adds a little bit more fun and excitement to just a normal walk,” Frisch said. “We are in such a pretty region of the state and it’s so peaceful and beautiful. (Geocaching) is a good way to take advantage of that. For those wishing to start geocaching in Springfield, the Geocaching app is free to download on Apple and Android devices.
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Take a hike TINSLEY MERRIMAN Editor D@merrimantinsley Missouri is home to several state-operated parks, but none are as close as Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area. Located only 24 miles from the Missouri State University campus, the area offers activities for all outdoorsy types. The area is located midway between Branson and Springfield, and covers 2,700 acres throughout Christian County. The area has 18 miles of trails for use by hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders. There are also campsites and an unattended shooting range located in Busiek West. The longest hiking trail at 5.7 miles is the Orange Trail, located in Busiek West near the shooting range. To camp at Busiek, visitors must fill out a permit from the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Southwest Regional office, located at 2630 N. Mayfair Ave. in Springfield. The permit is free and lasts until the end of the camping trip. The Foster Recreation Center usually offers
Photo by Tinsley Merriman, D@merrimantinsley Busiek State Park is home to several hiking trails, as well as a shooting range. The area is only 24 miles from MSU. a trip once a year to Busiek, though this year it has been replaced with a trip to Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Allison Schoonbeck, sophomore English
education major, said she enjoys Busiek because of the proximity. Schoonbeck said she was “in-between” a novice and avid hiker, the longest hike she had taken being eight miles.
“It’s a good getaway that’s not too far from campus,” Schoonbeck said. “You feel like you’re further out in the country than you really are, but the views are nice and it’s a good workout. It’s the go-to for hiking trails in the area.” Schoonbeck said the East trail is quieter, as it is further from the gun range. Matthew McKay, associate professor of geology, said his department normally takes two trips to Busiek per year. These have been challenged by COVID-19, and McKay said he has only been on one trip to the area this year. McKay said the main reason the Geography, Geology and Planning Department takes trips to Busiek is to teach students about navigation. “We teach students how to navigate and use the topography and read the land surface,” McKay said. “We do a little bit of looking at the bedrock geology, but it’s a combination of learning to read the topography and interpret and even draw and survey (students) own maps.” McKay agreed Busiek’s closeness to MSU helps make it the main spot for his department to visit, especially since it is free to access. For further questions, the MDC Southwest Regional office can be contacted at 417-8956880. A full map of the area can be found on the MDC website at https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/busiek-state-forest-wildlife-area.
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