The state conservation commission has voted to bring elk back to Missouri. 

The plan will have elk reintroduced in a 346-square mile area of  Shannon, Carter, and Reynolds Counties, an area the commission says has a lot of public land, few roads, little agriculture, and good landowner support.  The health of the elk will be monitored to protect other wildlife and livestock.  The state veterinarian says the program would be similar to programs in other states.