North Fork River 3-4 Hours
This physical geography field trip of an Ozark watershed will involve a hiking tour of United States Forest Service (USFS) recreation area and adjacent riparian floodplain to see flood damage and geomorphic changes. Leading this field trip Dr. Robert Pavlowsky will share preliminary results of National Science Foundation (NSF) project to study flood effects including drone imagery, Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis and before-and-after channel surveys. The duration of this field trip will be three to four hours about 30 minutes away from West Plains. Participants are recommended to sport light hiking wear.
Pre-conference Field Trip to Branson, Missouri
5-6 Hours
Branson, has been described by some as the new mecca of country music. Some geographers have called it an 'energizing' rural space given the manner in which it has emerged as a site of booming entertainment complex founded on Ozark themes. Branson's ascent to popular culture entertainment center has been greatly enhanced by its location in the Ozark mountains. Visitors to Branson today are enticed by many attractions: recreational lakes, rolling hills and scenic vistas among others. The city is now, by some estimates the second most popular "drive-to" destination in the country and ranks as the top twenty overnight leisure spots.
There is much to explore in Branson. The tour will include an interaction with urban planners, a visit to the Branson Mill Craft Village, historic walking tour of downtown Branson, as well as a visit to the Branson landing. Participants will stay in Branson for five to six hours with opportunity to explore much on their own. The field trip will leave the West Plains Civic Center at 8:00 AM and return at 6:00 PM.