Monarch Watch in Missouri: The Missouri Conservation Corps will host free monarch butterfly tagging sessions in September at Bonnie View Nature Center (Columbia) and Big Muddy National Wildlife Refuge (Boonville), plus a Monarch Migration Family Day at the Katy Depot—aimed at teaching how tagging helps track the fall migration to Mexico. Data Center Backlash: Residents and environmental groups filed a lawsuit against a proposed St. Louis Midtown data center, arguing the city board wrongly granted a conditional use permit and raised concerns about air and water pollution, construction noise, and electricity demand. Water & Stormwater Planning: Columbia’s second phase of its integrated wastewater and stormwater plan moves forward after City Council approval, targeting sewer upgrades, inflow/infiltration reduction, and stormwater projects to protect public health and the environment. Wildfire Readiness: Stage 1 fire restrictions take effect in Fergus and Petroleum Counties due to hot, dry conditions, limiting activities on state and private lands. Heat Risk: A heat advisory warns of heat index values up to 105 across parts of northeast Missouri and surrounding areas, urging hydration and staying out of the sun. Outdoor Safety & Wildlife: Missouri Conservation guidance highlights that snakes are protected statewide, with exceptions for venomous snakes near people.