It's time to talk about ticks and mosquitoes

If you want to enjoy Missouri's trails, lakes, rivers and other outdoor activities, consider arming yourself against ticks and mosquitoes.

Outdoor enthusiasts are aware of products that use permethrin, an insect repellent that is sprayed on clothing, gear and tents, said Becky Matney, assistant manager at Runge Nature Center. Permethrin is not to be used directly on skin.

"If you're fishing, hunting, scouting, this is what you would use," Matney said. "At Missouri Department of Conservation, if we're doing outdoor field work, our clothes are treated with permethrin before going out in the field."

Continue reading Joe Gamm's tips on tick and mosquito prevention here.