Green Horizons

Black Gold: A History of Charcoal in Missouri
by Robert Massengale

The production of charcoal is one of the oldest industries in Missouri, beginning before it became a state in 1821. Learn about the fascinating history of the wood charcoal industry in Missouri, methods of making wood charcoal, the influence of the industry in the state and changes during the past 200 years. Read about the inventor of the charcoal briquette who made charcoal in Missouri.

Robert (Bob) Massengale graduated from the University of Missouri with B.S. and M.S. degrees in Forestry. He spent the majority of his working career with the Forestry Division of the Missouri Department of Conservation. In 1962, he transferred to the central office to head up the Forest Products Marketing and Utilization Program. Bob has authored 15 publications including directories and industry studies and the popular "Missouri Woods" publication of the Conservation Department. Black Gold is available by calling (888) 280-7715; or online at www.authorhouse.com/BookStore. Author House can be reached at (888) 519-5121.

Prescribed Burn Workshops

Information from the Missouri ForestKeepers Network
(web site: http://216.119.79.248/index.asp)

If you are a landowner needing a burn plan written, and assistance with conducting a prescribed burn, you should plan on attending one of these workshops. (No plans or assistance can be given without first attending one.) Contact Randy Hass with the Missouri Department of Conservation at (417) 629-3424 for more information on prescribed burn workshops, or to register.

Feb. 3, 2007
9 a.m. to 12 noon
Memorial Hall basement,
Lamar, Mo.
Register by Jan. 29, 2007

Feb. 10, 2007
9 a.m. to 12 noon
Jasper County Annex Building #1, 205 Lincoln,
Carthage, Mo.
Register by Feb. 5, 2007