Missouri Department of Conservation announces more than 100 job cuts

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Missouri Department of Conservation is looking to cut 106 positions by March 31, 2027, according to Deputy Director Aaron Jeffries.

Jeffries told ABC 17 News on Wednesday that 262 employees have been told that they will have to interview for their current or new positions.

Jeffries said cuts are affecting all areas of the MDC, including its headquarters and operations to field work. The department is taking a look at revenue and spending because of the increasing costs of benefits and inflation, according to Jeffries.

“MDC is working to consolidate the agency structure as revenues have flattened and operating costs are squeezed in many areas,” according to a statement from the department. “We continue to see rising costs because of inflation and personnel service costs (e.g. health insurance and retirement benefits). The reduction is across the agency and involves all levels of the Department.”