Ozark, Mo. - The City of Ozark is proud to announce that Garrison Springs Community Forest has been awarded the 2025 Innovation Award in the Large City category by the Missouri Municipal League (MML). This prestigious award honors outstanding municipal projects in cities with populations between 15,000 and 30,000 that showcase forward thinking solutions and deliver lasting community impact.
The Missouri Municipal League’s Innovation Awards celebrate outstanding projects that improve the quality of life in communities across Missouri through innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Ozark’s Garrison Springs Community Forest stood out for its bold approach to environmental conservation, sustainable land management, and public recreation. The park officially reopened to the public in August 2024 following renovations.
“This recognition from the Missouri Municipal League is a tremendous honor for Ozark,” said Mayor Don Currence. “Garrison Springs reflects our commitment to smart growth, conservation, and enhancing the well-being of our residents. It’s a shining example of what can happen when a community comes together with vision and purpose.”
The City of Ozark purchased the Garrison Springs property in March 2021 with the assistance of two grants: the Missouri Department of Conservation Land Conservation Partnership and a Federal Forestry Grant. Today, the forest features a mix of accessible amenities, including an ADA-compliant trail, a soft-surface trail, and a viewing platform that allows visitors to safely experience the springs up close in a natural setting.
Future plans for the site include the development of a nature center, which will serve as a hub for school groups, public programming, and conservation partnerships—further advancing the city's mission to connect people with nature and foster environmental education.
To learn more about Garrison Springs Community Forest or to plan a visit, please go to myozark.info/Garrison-Springs.