Spring Outdoors

Springtime in Missouri is a great time to get outdoors. The temperatures are warming. The plants are beginning to bloom. Getting out in our natural environment can have multiple health benefits. It can elevate our mood, lower blood pressure, and fight anxiety and depression.

Explore these resources for a healthy and happy spring season.

man sneezing

It's Allergy Season

While the scenery is pretty, the pollen in the air from blooming plants can trigger your allergies or asthma. Learn more about different pollen and mold allergens in Missouri, and when their levels are usually highest.

Tick and Mosquito-borne Disease in Missouri

Spending more time outdoors in warmer temperatures means you may encounter disease carrying ticks and mosquitoes!

Explore the Tickborne Disease Story Map to learn about tickborne diseases reported in Missouri residents, learn about ticks that can spread them, and get tips to help avoid tick bites in the first place.

Explore the Mosquito-borne Disease Story Map to learn about mosquito-borne diseases in Missouri, learn about mosquitoes that spread them, and get tips for preventing mosquito bites in the first place.

2 Minute Drills – whether you are on the trail, mowing your grass, or happen to find yourself in woody or brushy areas, take a few minutes to help protect yourself from ticks and mosquitoes.

Get Outdoors

Missouri Fish Advisory - catch, prepare, and eat healthy fish
Missouri State Parks - plan your visit to a state park
Listen to Nature - reduce stress and improve health
State of Missouri Outdoors - find outdoor activities, services, and news
Missouri Grown - find fresh, local, and delicious Missouri-grown foods and fun.

Spring Safety Tips

Spring Forward - when turning your clocks forward this spring, remember to install or change batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Storms – recover after a storm or flood.