Introduction. Some years ago the McKeels became aware of the massive (more than 1 million species are cataloged!) Tropicos botanical database maintained by the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, Missouri. A key and unique feature of this world-class database is the interactive data input feature by user-investigators who can add descriptive supplementary information to the botanical knowledge base. In this way, items within the database build a new store of vital information as additional scientific observations are gathered. In botany as in molecular biology, there is a period in which new specie identification is only tentative. Certification that the candidate new specie is indeed unique depends on scientific confirmation by more than one researcher before official "new species" (or new molecular species in biology) certification is possible.
When preparing the list of key facts about the Missouri-Arkansas Ozark Trails System, the authors of this site realized that getting complete accurate information about these categories of data would be daunting, ongoing, and perhaps elusive. The attempt would be useful, however, and most of all fun (sporting in the English sense)! At the very least, the listings will continually remind all of us who enjoy using the trail how much effort (Tim Ernst cites over 300,000 volunteer hours have been spent on OHT, for example) goes into building a comprehensive trail system such as this one. It is truly awesome!
The initial goal is just to indicate the number of entities in each list. As time permits list items will be included in linked pages to keep the list manageable. Eventually, the page will be a Master List of Lists or data dictionary about the OZT and OHT in the bi-state area.
Without further apology, then, here are the lists (non-alphabetical by design - this may change and is open to negotiation :-)). PLEASE feel free to contribute new information or suggestions for additions and corrections to the various lists by e-mail, in writing (Louise and Dan McKeel, 5587-C Waterman Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112 USA), by phone (314-367-8888) or by fax (314-367-7663). The concept here is a dynamic, evolving data source made possible by the contributions of knowledgeable people within agencies, the scientific community, and users of the trail. People who contribute facts will be acknowledged on this page.
OZTMO_OHTARK_facts.html