In St. Louis, the Missouri River sometimes gets overshadowed by the Mighty Mississippi. But it has center stage in a new book. Missouri River Country: 100 Miles of Stories and Scenery from Hermann to the Confluence combines abundant photographs and the work of 60 authors to tell the story of the region.
"The Missouri is kind of out of sight out of mind a lot of times," said the editor of the book, Dan Burkhardt. "Often times when we do hear about it is when it misbehaves, when it floods." He compiled the book to highlight all the positives the river has to offer.
In addition to covering the history and tourism of the region, the book focuses on the natural beauty of the valley and conservation efforts along the river.
"It’s a balancing act like many environmental issues are," said Patty Hagen, director of the Audubon Center at Riverlands. "There are many uses of the river." She wrote a segment on trumpeter swans for the book.
Terry Hammer, owner of Hermann Hill Bed and Breakfast contributed to the book as well. His segment tells the story of how the German founders of Hermann adapted a city plan designed in Philadelphia to the topography of the river valley.
St. Louis on the Air provides discussion about issues and concerns facing the St. Louis area. The show is produced by Mary Edwards and Alex Heuer and hosted by veteran journalist Don Marsh.
