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Big Muddy Speaker Series presents:

Learning from Lidar: Exploring the Missouri River's Relief

Illustrated river waves in white
Presented by Eric & Joanna Reuter

Or Click here to watch this presentation on YouTube.

Embark on a virtual voyage of discovery though the geologic backstory of the Missouri River's landscape.
Modern mapping now uses high-resolution laser-derived elevation data (lidar) to develop extraordinarily detailed 3D landscape models that reveal all sorts of fascinating features.
This presentation discusses the broader drainage basin, but focuses on exploring the lower river corridor. Details of topographic relief, combined with some geologic knowledge, yield interesting stories about the region’s past. Learn about abandoned river channels, glacial floods, and connections to human history (including railroads).

Your guides will be Eric and Joanna Reuter, whose YouTube channel Ozark Outsider interprets regional geologic, ecologic, and human history.

This presentation originally took place on April 14th, 2026 at the Riechmann Indoor Pavilion in Stephens Lake Park, Columbia, MO.

Hosted by Missouri River Relief

Meet Your Presenters

Eric & Joanna Reuter

Eric & Joanna Reuter

, Earth Science Educators

Geologists Joanna & Eric Reuter have a strong interest in exploring, understanding, and sharing the wonder of the natural world in Missouri and beyond. In 2022, they founded their current business, Ozark Outsider, in pursuit of a long-held desire to contribute to science education and outreach in the region. Eric & Joanna’s Ozark Outsider YouTube channel investigates and interprets the Ozark region's geology, ecology, and history, combining on-the-ground visits, background research, and enthusiastic use of maps, data, and historical photos. Their work draws on shared personal interests in ecology, birding, and history along with professional and academic backgrounds including public education, scientific editing, freelance writing, land management, and Earth science research. Joanna & Eric enjoy paddling, hiking, biking, and birding within the Missouri River corridor. 


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November 11, 2026
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Jennifer Wendt from MidAmerica Clean Future guides us through understanding regional water quality challenges.

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Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by our presenters do not necessarily reflect the view or policies of Missouri River Relief, the Big Muddy Speaker Series or any of the partners that support this public forum. The Big Muddy Speaker Series believes that hearing diverse perspectives is a crucial building block for an informed public.
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