Dr. Chris Barnhart from Missouri State University recently received the Missouri Department of Conservation Outreach and Education 2016 External Partnership Award for his work at the Springfield Nature Center.

At the Nature Center, Barnhart, a distinguished professor of biology, provides lectures and other resources for interpretive programs about insect and pollination biology, endangered species and invasive species.

“I’m very grateful to be part of a community that values wildlife and conservation,” said Barnhart. “The Department of Conservation provides great opportunities for collaboration in research and education.”

Linda Chorice, manager of the Nature Center, had this to say about Barnhart’s contributions:

“We are so happy to have such a great working relationship with Chris. We respect and admire him immensely.”

This isn’t the only award Barnhart has received for his conservation efforts. In 2010 Barnhart received the Collaborator of the Year award from the Department of Conservation, Resource Science Division “for outstanding collaboration with the Missouri Department of Conservation to further the conservation of freshwater mussels and other natural resources in Missouri.”

For more information, contact Barnhart at 417-836-5166.