Missouri River Bird Observatory (MRBO) is dedicated to the conservation of birds, wildlife, and wildlife habitat in the state of Missouri. Founded in 2010 by Dana Ripper and her husband Ethan Duke, both field biologists, MRBO began as a small bird banding project and has since evolved into a science-based organization studying nearly 100,000 acres of the state’s prairies, grasslands, and wetlands. “In Missouri, we have less than one percent of the prairie acreage that we had at the time of settlement,” Ripper says. “Prairies and wetlands are our most imperiled ecosystems.” These ecosystems provide crucial habitat for nearly 400 bird species across the state, but much has been lost to and continues to be threatened by the expansion of farmland, urban sprawl, and other forms of reckless development. MRBO works to protect these ecosystems and the species that live there via science, education, and advocacy. “Our mission is a dedication to saving diverse ecosystems and all of the species—including us—that depend on them,” Ripper says.
The state of Missouri is home to nearly 400 species of birds, including the Henslow’s Sparrow. Photo: Chrissy McClaren and Andrew Reago/Missouri River Bird Observatory
With six full-time staff including scientists, educators, and field technicians, Missouri River Bird Observatory is a science-based nonprofit occupying an important niche in the Midwest. Since 2012, MRBO has conducted bird monitoring surveys on nearly 500 miles of prairie, grassland, and wetland ecosystems across Missouri and several surrounding states. The results of this long-term study, published in a 2025 report, shed new light on how land managers can better protect Missouri’s most imperiled ecosystems and bird species. MRBO’s policy advocacy is informed by their scientific research. In April 2025, MRBO joined Maine Audubon and Connecticut Audubon in national advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., where they encouraged Congressional leaders to support several wildlife bills, including the Migratory Bird Protection Act. In addition to their scientific research and policy advocacy, the group hosts over 100 educational events annually, with audiences ranging from preschoolers to scientific professionals.
In addition to their scientific research and policy advocacy, the Missouri River Bird Observatory hosts over 100 educational events each year, with audiences ranging from preschoolers to scientific professionals. Photo: Missouri River Bird Observatory