Bee Ridge (Missouri)

Bee Ridge is a geographical ridge located in Knox County, in the northeastern region of the U.S. state of Missouri.[1] It is part of the dissected till plains of northern Missouri, characterized by gently rolling hills, low ridges, and fertile agricultural land.[2]

Geography

Bee Ridge extends in a generally north–south direction across central Knox County. The ridge lies near the communities of Edina and Baring and is situated between the South Fabius River and the Middle Fabius River, both tributaries of the Mississippi River. The elevation of the ridge ranges from approximately 850 to 950 feet above sea level, providing a modest rise above the surrounding farmland.[3]

History

Bee Ridge was named by early settlers for the abundance of wild honeybees observed in the area. These bees were frequently found nesting in hollow trees along the wooded portions of the ridge, and early pioneers would harvest honey as a natural sweetener and trade commodity.[4]

Ecology

The natural vegetation of Bee Ridge historically consisted of oak-hickory forests interspersed with native tallgrass prairie species. Although much of the land has been cleared for agriculture, some patches of original flora remain in less accessible areas. Local wildlife includes white-tailed deer, wild turkey, cottontail rabbits, and various bird species.[5]

Land Use

Today, Bee Ridge is primarily used for agricultural purposes, including the cultivation of corn, soybeans, and hay, as well as livestock grazing. Its elevation and well-drained soils have made it suitable for farming since the early 20th century.[6]

References

  1. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Bee Ridge (Missouri)
  2. ^ Thornbury, William D. (1965). Regional Geomorphology of the United States. John Wiley & Sons. pp. 245–247.
  3. ^ "Topographic Map of Bee Ridge Area, Knox County, Missouri". Topozone. Retrieved 24 June 2025.
  4. ^ "Knox County Place Names, 1928–1945 (archived)". The State Historical Society of Missouri. Archived from the original on 24 June 2016. Retrieved 23 October 2016.
  5. ^ Nelson, Paul W. (2010). "The Terrestrial Natural Communities of Missouri". Missouri Department of Conservation: 37.
  6. ^ Hudson, John C. (1994). Making the Corn Belt: A Geographical History of Middle-Western Agriculture. Indiana University Press. pp. 89–91.

40°04′31″N 92°03′35″W / 40.0753179°N 92.0596213°W / 40.0753179; -92.0596213

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