PARK INFORMATION
Tallgrass prairies once covered more than a third of Missouri; today, less than 1% remains, much of it preserved at Prairie State Park. Visitors to the park see panoramic vistas of swaying grass and ever-changing wildflowers. They also may spot the park’s resident bison herd. The park’s Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center offers exhibits and interpretive programs designed to inform visitors about the special place.According to the Missouri State Department of Natural Resources, "Want to fly your drone? There are no laws prohibiting drones on state park grounds, but we do ask that you keep it to the main, open day-use areas and be respectful of other visitors in the park. If you will be taking photos for professional use or sale, there would be a process to go through to gain approval for that.
Go to https://mostateparks.com/park/prairie-state-park for more information.
Prairie State Park is located in southwestern Missouri in Barton County near the town of Mindenmines. The park spans over 4,000 acres and is dedicated to preserving the tallgrass prairie ecosystem, which once covered much of the Midwest. It provides visitors with a glimpse of what the landscape might have looked like before extensive agricultural development. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, and a variety of bird species. It also offers scenic views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Is It Worth Flying a Drone There?From an aesthetics standpoint, Prairie State Park offers expansive vistas, rolling landscapes, and the chance to capture footage of native flora and fauna, including the bison herd. For those interested in nature and wildlife photography or videography, it can be quite rewarding to fly a drone there.
Drone Regulations:1. Legal Status: As of now, Missouri State Parks generally prohibit the use of drones for recreational purposes without special permission. This is also in line with many other state park regulations across the U.S. that restrict drone usage to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and privacy of visitors.2. FAA Authorization: If you were to obtain special permission to fly a drone in Prairie State Park, you would still need to adhere to FAA regulations. Specifically: - If the park is located within controlled airspace, you would need to get LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) authorization. - Always keep your drone within visual line of sight. - Do not fly over crowds or groups of people. - Fly at or below 400 feet in uncontrolled airspace.3. Special Permission: To legally fly a drone in Prairie State Park, you would need to: - Contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to inquire about obtaining a special permit. - Provide a detailed plan of where and when you intend to fly. - Adhere to any additional guidelines or stipulations they might have.
Other Considerations:- Wildlife Disturbance: Drones can disturb wildlife, particularly large mammals like bison and elk. Avoid flying near animals to reduce stress or unintended reactions.- Privacy Concerns: Respect the privacy of other park visitors.- Weather Conditions: Always check the weather before planning your drone flight. Windy conditions can make drone flying risky.
Conclusion:While the visual appeal of Prairie State Park makes it an attractive location for drone photography, legal and environmental considerations are crucial. You would need special permission from state park authorities, and possibly LAANC authorization if the airspace is controlled. Always respect regulations, wildlife, and the experience of other park-goers for a responsible and enjoyable drone flying experience.
Prairie State Park, 128 NW 150th Ln, Mindenmines, MO 64769, USA
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