Kansas Native Plant Society - KNPS

Presentation: Wichita Audubon Extended Field Trips • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, May 21st, 2013 @ 7pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th St N • Wichita, KS • Map

Kevin Groeneweg, Wichita Audubon leader and birder par excellence, will take a look back at the success of our annual extended field trips. Kevin will highlight the great birds and birding moments from some of our recent trips.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

More Info: website

Sponsor: Wichita Audubon Society

Tuttle Creek Lake Spring Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Saturday, May 18th, 2013 @ 10am-noon

Tuttle Creek Lake Visitor’s Center • 5020 Tuttle Creek Blvd • Manhattan, KS • Map

Plan to be a part of the spring wildflower walk at Tuttle Creek Lake, led by KNPS guides. This is an opportunity to see and learn about the spring flowers of the Flint Hills such as: ____. Each participant will receive a free copy of A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers and Grasses to use during the hike and then take home. So we will know how many to expect for the outing, please preregister with UFM Community Learning Center 785(539-8763) or info@tryufm.org. There is no registration fee.
NOTE DATE CHANGE from 5/4/13

Contact: Paul Weidhaas 785-539-8511

Sponsor: Tuttle Creek Lake

Snyder Prairie Workday: Invasive Species Control • Jackson County

Saturday, May 18th, 2013 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for May includes beginning invasive species control of the following: garlic mustard, bush honeysuckle, and musk thistle.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Native Medicinal Plants & Wildflower Walk • Douglas County

Saturday, May 11th, 2013 @ 10am-no

1865 E 1600 Road • Lawrence, KS • Map

Tour the KU Medicinal Plant Research Garden and Rockefeller Prairie, all part of the KU Field Station. The University of Kansas Field Station is located about 20 minutes north of downtown Lawrence. The prairies, forests, wetlands, ponds, laboratories, gardens, and large-scale field studies on field station lands provide the platform for research and education programs. Former KNPS President and curator of the RL McGregor Herbarium, Craig Freeman, PhD will be our leader, accompanied by staff biologist and Assoc. Director for Outreach, Scott Campbell. [This tour is only open to KNPS members & Miami Co. Master Gardeners]

We will meet at the site, AT 10 AM SHARP! In general, if driving to Lawrence via I-70, take the East Lawrence exit and turn east on 24/40. Drive past the airport and look for the green Field Station sign at 1600 Road. Turn left and park by the Medicinal Garden. After this tour, we will drive 1 ½ miles north to the nature trail area to enjoy the spring wildflowers at the Rockefeller Native Prairie.

See the PDF Map to Garden for directions.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

More Info: Map to Garden (PDF)

Sponsor: Miami County Extension Master Gardeners

Barber County Wildflower Tour [CANCELLED] • Barber County

Saturday, May 11th, 2013 @ 8:30am

Medicine Lodge High School • 400 West Eldorado Avenue • Medicine Lodge, KS • Map

The Wildflower Tour begins at the High School in Medicine Lodge at 8:30 a.m. with registration. A continental breakfast is served and a short presentation is given to familiarize you with some of the flowers you will see on the tour. Then it is off to a morning wildflower identification site. After a guided tour of approximately 30 species it is off on a drive through the hills to a country park for a delicious barbecue lunch. A short drive through the scenic Gyp Hills guides us to a second identification stop with afternoon refreshments. The group will be back into town around 3:30 p.m. The fee for the Wildflower Tour is $15 per person, which covers the cost of the continental breakfast, lunch, afternoon refreshments, and transportation. Please remember that we require prepaid reservations for the Wildflower Tour. Payment is due by May 3. Send payment to Barber County Conservation District, 800 W. Third Ave Medicine Lodge, KS 67104.

Contact: Cheryl Davis (620) 886-5311

More Info: Barber Wildflower Tour Info

Woodland Wildflower Walk along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Wednesday, May 8th, 2013 @ 6pm-dark

Felker Park • 2540 SW Gage Blvd • Topeka, KS • Map

See spring woodland flowers in the woods along Shunga Creek. Volunteers have been clearing Amur honeysuckle from the woods since 2010. This invasive shrub elimates the native wildflowers. With the honeysuckle gone, the native plants will rebound. Some flowers we should see include blue phlox, Virginia waterleaf, paw paw, violets, and others. Meet at the Felker Park parking lot at the Tennis Courts off of Gage Blvd. RSVP Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale #2 • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 27th, 2013 @ 8am-1pm

City Market • 5th & Walnut • Kansas City, MO • Map

The Missouri Prairie Foundation's annual native plant sale will be held the last two Saturdays in April: April 20 and April 27 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the City Market, 5th and Walnut, Kansas City, MO. A large variety of native Missouri wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-716-9159

Spring Flora Kansas: Great Plains Plant Bazaar • Harvey County

Thursday, Apr 25th, 2013 to Monday, Apr 29th, 2013 @ 7pm

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

Kansas' largest native plant sale offering many species of wildflowers and grasses many of which are rare in cultivation. A large selection of adaptable perennials is also available.

Thursday, April 25, 1 – 7 PM-*Members Only*
Friday, April 26, 8 AM – 7 PM- Public Sale
Saturday, April 27, 8 AM – 2 PM-Public Sale
Sunday, April 28, Noon – 4 PM-Public Sale
Monday, April 29, 8 AM – 6 PM-Public Sale

Contact: Scott Vogt (620) 327-8127

More Info: Flora Kansas Dates

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Spring Wild Flower Walk in Miami County[CANCELLED] • Miami County

Sunday, Apr 21st, 2013 @ 1pm

Hillsdale State Park • 26001 West 255th Street • Paola, KS • Map

Hillsdale State Park in Paola, KS has 32 miles of hiking trails, meandering through multiple habitats from the shore of the 5,000 acre lake, including native prairie to oak/hickory woodlands. Our first exploration will be the 1.5 mile ‘Hidden Spring Nature Trail” (Yes, there is a hidden spring!). While the terrain is steep in places, it is well graded with steps for easy walking. We will meet at the Visitor Center parking lot at 1:00 PM. The Visitor Center has an excellent small museum, so allow time before or after our hike to enjoy the educational displays.
Directions: The Visitor Center is at 26001 West 255th Street. Turn west on the Hillsdale exit from K-7/169.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

More Info: KDWPT Hillsdale info

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Gunn Park Wildflower Tour • Bourbon County

Sunday, Apr 21st, 2013 @ 1pm

Gunn Park • Park Ave. • Fort Scott, KS • Map

(Note: Event moved back 1 weeks from April 14) Gunn Park has a rich display of Dwarf Larkspur, Dutchman's Breeches, Yellow Violets and more. This will include a walk along one of the lakes and woodland trail. Pants, sturdy shoes as well as a walking stick are recommended.
The park allows fishing with a license, has bike trails, restrooms, parks and shelters.

meet at the parking maintenance lot just before the Gunn Park entrance.

Contact: Rondi Anderson 620-249-5456

Sponsor: KNPS Fort Scott Region

Discover Salina Naturally • Saline County

Sunday, Apr 21st, 2013 @ 12pm-4pm

Lakewood Park • Salina, KS • Map

DISCOVER Salina's past, present, and future. DISCOVER historical characters from Salina's past. DISCOVER Salina's natural history. DISCOVER sustainable practices that will take Salina into the 21st century. Something for everyone. Kid’s activities. Drawings for prizes. Learn about xeriscaping and rain gardens. Learn about conserving water and energy. Free disposal of household chemicals and unused pharmaceuticals. Demonstrations (rain barrel making, worm composting). Go for a nature walk led by naturalists. Lakewood Park is an urban wildlife sanctuary and contains a re-established prairie.

Contact: Barbara Goode 785-452-9456 (Salina)

Sponsor: Salina C.A.R.E Partnership

Wyandotte County Lake Park Spring Wildflowers #2 of 2 • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Apr 20th, 2013 @ 9am-11am

91st Street and Leavenworth Road • Kansas City, KS • Map

Woodland Spring Wildflowers at Wyandotte County Lake Park, 9am-11am. Meet up in the main parking lot by the Park office: take the left fork when you come in the 91st entrance at the South end of the Park. Spring wildflowers and maybe some wild orchids along the base of the Missouri River bluffs by the dam. Some trails may be steep and muddy if it has rained recently,so good boots and jeans recommended. Elizabeth Petroske (epetroske@hotmail.com) and Ken O’Dell.

Contact: Elizabeth Petroske

Event Report

1 people attended the event.

Very cold morning.

Snyder Prairie Workday: Burn Cleanup • Jackson County

Saturday, Apr 20th, 2013 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for April includes cleaning up debris after the spring burns.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale #1 • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 20th, 2013 @ 8am-1pm

City Market • 5th & Walnut • Kansas City, MO • Map

The Missouri Prairie Foundation's annual native plant sale will be held the last two Saturdays in April: April 20 and April 27 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the City Market, 5th and Walnut, Kansas City, MO. A large variety of native Missouri wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-716-9159

GHF Native Prairie Plant Sale • Douglas County

Saturday, Apr 20th, 2013 @ 11:30am

South Park • 1141 Massachusetts Street • Lawrence, KS • Map

Has the drought been tough on your garden? Do you need to replace some plants? Come to the GHF Native Plant Sale on April 20th and stock up on plants that are adapted to Kansas weather extremes!
We'll be selling a variety of native prairie forbs (flowering plants) and grasses at the 13th Annual Lawrence Earth Day Celebration. All plants will be supplied by Baldwin's own Applied Ecological Services and are guaranteed to be Kansas natives. We will have about 20 different varieties available including Butterfly Milkweed, Little Bluestem and other species appropriate for home landscapes.
If you are a paying GHF member in 2012 or 2013, you can place your order ahead of time and pay and pick up at the sale. Members can also choose from a larger plant list (almost 150 species!) than those available at the event. Contact Kim for more details.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

KC Spring Wildflower Walk #3 of 3 • Johnson County

Wednesday, Apr 17th, 2013 @ 10am-noon

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th Street • Bucyrus, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society is conducting three woodland walks at the Overland Park Arboretum, led by experienced botanists. Participants can expect to see over thirty species of flowers as well as native trees, shrubs and vines. The trails have steep sections and may be muddy if it has rained recently, so good boots and jeans are recommended.

The Arboretum is located 1/2 mile west of Highway 69, on the south side of Overland Park. An admission fee of $3.00 is charged for entrance to the garden unless you are a member of Friends of the Arboretum.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Spring Board Meeting & Outing • Shawnee County

Saturday, Apr 13th, 2013 @ 12pm-2pm

3440 Button Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

The Spring board meeting will be held at Karlyle Woods in Topeka. Karlyle Woods is owned by Washburn University and is located north of Topeka off of US-75. Directions: Take the NW 35th Street exit off of US-75. Go east to Button Road and take a right. Take an immediate left and follow the driveway to the end. We will meet in the lab, which is located west of the care-takers residence. KNPS members are welcome to attend the board meeting. After the meeting we will walk the trails in the woods looking for spring wildflowers such as dutchman's breeches. If you plan to attend the walk, contact Jeff.

Contact: Jeff Hansen

Wyandotte County Lake Park Spring Wildflowers #1 of 2 • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Apr 13th, 2013 @ 9am-11am

91st Street and Leavenworth Road • Kansas City, KS • Map

Woodland Spring Wildflowers at Wyandotte County Lake Park, 9am-11am. Meet up in the main parking lot by the Park office: take the left fork when you come in the 91st entrance at the South end of the Park. Spring wildflowers and maybe some wild orchids along the base of the Missouri River bluffs by the dam. Some trails may be steep and muddy if it has rained recently,so good boots and jeans recommended. Elizabeth Petroske (epetroske@hotmail.com) and Ken O’Dell.

Contact: Elizabeth Petroske

Event Report

6 people attended the event.

On April 6 we had 6 people show up, all KNPS members, one from McPearson Co, and we were out till after 12 instead of 11 so everyone must have been having fun. Things actually looked pretty good even though it was 40 degrees most of the morning- lots of spring beauties and dutchman's breeches, still some bloodroot blooming, mayapples leafing out, lots and lots of trout lily leaves and toothwort.

KC Spring Wildflower Walk #2 of 3 [CANCELLED] • Johnson County

Wednesday, Apr 10th, 2013 @ 10am-noon

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th Street • Bucyrus, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society is conducting three woodland walks at the Overland Park Arboretum, led by experienced botanists. Participants can expect to see over thirty species of flowers as well as native trees, shrubs and vines. The trails have steep sections and may be muddy if it has rained recently, so good boots and jeans are recommended.

The Arboretum is located 1/2 mile west of Highway 69, on the south side of Overland Park. An admission fee of $3.00 is charged for entrance to the garden unless you are a member of Friends of the Arboretum.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Spring Cleanup at Chaplin Nature Center • Cowley County

Saturday, Apr 6th, 2013 @ 9am-2pm

Chaplin Nature Center • Arkansas City, KS • Map

Spring Cleanup at Chaplin Nature Center, near Arkansas City, KS. Come celebrate spring at the nature center while lending a helping hand, 9am-2pm. Clearing trails of debris, raking, sprucing up the area around the building and small repair jobs will be on our to-do list. No matter what your age, you can contribute. A simple lunch will be provided for those staying the whole day. Be sure to wear old clothes and bring a pair of work gloves. Branch clippers and yard rakes are needed.

Contact: Shawn Silliman (620) 442-4133

Old Military Trail Wildflower Walk • Jefferson County

Saturday, Apr 6th, 2013 @ 1pm

Casey's General Store • 150 Main Street • Ozawkie, KS • Map

Meet at the Casey's General Store in Ozawkie at 1pm. From there, we will carpool to the trail head of the Old Military Trail. The trail is rich with spring woodland wildflowers. Some flowers we hope to see are Dutchman's breeches and trout lilies. Contact Fred & Nancy if you plan to attend.

Contact: Fred or Nancy Coombs 785.872.3463

Event Report

14 people attended the event.

The late spring weather slowed down the wildflowers, but we were still able to find trout lilies, Dutchman's breeches, and false rue anemone just beginning to bloom. Attendees enjoyed sampling edibles such as violet, waterleaf, pennycress, and garlic mustard. The pod of the bladdernut was examined to find seeds inside. A mourning cloak butterfly showed off to everyone in attendance. A family of four was at the trail head and we asked them to join us on our walk. They enjoyed themselves and were new to KNPS. One person read about the event in the Valley Falls paper. Sadly we noticed bush honeysuckle is starting to invade these woods.

KC Spring Wildflower Walk #1 of 3 [CANCELLED] • Johnson County

Wednesday, Apr 3rd, 2013 @ 10am-noon

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th Street • Bucyrus, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society is conducting three woodland walks at the Overland Park Arboretum, led by experienced botanists. Participants can expect to see over thirty species of flowers as well as native trees, shrubs and vines. The trails have steep sections and may be muddy if it has rained recently, so good boots and jeans are recommended.

The Arboretum is located 1/2 mile west of Highway 69, on the south side of Overland Park. An admission fee of $3.00 is charged for entrance to the garden unless you are a member of Friends of the Arboretum.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Cedar Crest Woodland Wildflower Walk • Shawnee County

Tuesday, Apr 2nd, 2013 @ 6pm

Cedar Crest • 1 SW Cedar Crest Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Explore the woods at MacLennan Park (Cedar Crest). These oak-hickory woods have an abundance of native woodland wildflowers. We will hike on the Kansas Trails Council’s newly built trails at MacLennan Park and scout for wildflowers. The first wildflowers of the season will be blooming: fawn lily (both the pink and the white species) and Dutchman's breeches. Meet at the parking lot on the west side of the governor mansion. Directions: From I-70, take the Fairlawn exit, go north to Cedar Crest and take a left, follow road to parking lot. After the walk, we will go out for dinner and drinks at El Mezcal at 21st & Fairlawn.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Event Report

17 people attended the event.

The late spring weather slowed down the wildflowers a bit but we were still able to find flowering specimens of prairie trout lily, white tinged sedge, and almost flowering Dutchman's breeches. Six master gardeners were in attendance. People came from as faraway as Manhattan and Lawrence. After the walk, eight of us met for dinner.

Drought-Tolerant Plants for the Garden • Miami County

Thursday, Mar 28th, 2013 @ 6:30-7:30pm

Miami County Extension Office • 104 S. Brayman • Paola, KS • Map

The past two summers have been record-breakers for heat and drought; both plants and gardeners have suffered the pain. This presentation will review the 50 year history of drought in our area and discuss ornamental and native plants that have proven to be drought tolerant or somewhat drought tolerant in Miami County and Eastern Kansas.
MICO EMG Ken O’Dell is a master plantsman, owner of Spring Valley Nursery and Regional Director of the Kansas Native Plant Society. He is a frequent, favorite presenter to gardening groups throughout the area.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Sponsor: Miami County Extension Master Gardeners

Johnson County Healthy Yards Expo • Johnson County

Saturday, Mar 23rd, 2013 @ 9am-2pm

Shawnee Civic Center • 13817 Johnson Drive • Shawnee, KS • Map

Kansas Native Plant Society will be a participating vendor at The Johnson County Healthy Yards Expo, which focuses on resources from Kansas State University’s Research and Extension. The interactive program includes speakers on topics such as gardening with native plants, water use, composting and wildlife habitat. The Healthy Yards Expo will highlight vendors with information, products, tips and tools that meet the program’s criteria. Admission is free and children are welcome. COME VISIT OUR BOOTH! We'll be featuring Little Bluestem.

Contact: Lenora Larson

More Info: Johnson County Healthy Yards Expo

Sponsor: Johnson County & K-State Extension

Event Report

600 people attended the event.

The booth looked great and we had very good traffic. Lenora had a tri-fold display she had prepared. On the left was the poster we give away at membership, laminated. The right side was devoted mostly to Little Bluestem grass. In the middle had our KNPS logo on top and various pics of native plants and butterflies. We had handouts of our state tree, flower and grass, bookmarks, brochures, Lenora's list of caterpillar plants, our orange wildflower booklets and about 6 native plants supplied by Ken O'Dell. It really looked professional. Many people stopped with more than a passing interest and with specific questions. Many seemed interested in our coming wildflower walks and other events. Micky Louis and Lenora Larson represented KNPS at the booth with Ken O'Dell helping out.

Spring Workday: Clear Bush Honeysuckle along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Wednesday, Mar 20th, 2013 @ 5:30-7:30pm

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Help clear bush honeysuckle from the woods along Shunga Creek. Felker Park is a park in Topeka that is off Gage Blvd adjacent to Shunga Creek. We are going to clear an area of the woods of the honeysuckle and other invasives to allow the native species to flourish. Native plants found in these woods are Virginia Waterleaf, Woodland Phlox, Anise root, Wahoo, Chokecherry, and various sedges and grasses. The natives are barely hanging on because of the honeysuckle. The area we will be working is adjacent to the bridge at Gage & Shunga Creek. Parking is at the Tennis Courts off of Gage Blvd. If you can't come right at 5:30, just meet us in the woods. Wear boots, leather gloves, long sleeves and pants. Bring a lopper or pruning saw. If you don't want to cut, you can help drag branches. The City of Topeka will be supplying herbicide to treat the cut stumps to ensure the honeysuckle doesn't regrow. Please let Jeff know if you plan to attend. When we finish we can go to a local eatery for supper.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Event Report

Spring Workday: Clear Bush Honeysuckle along Shunga Creek

12 people attended the event.

With a chainsaw, loppers, and saws; volunteers cut and treated with herbicide bush honeysuckle and oriental bittersweet. When the work was complete, we went for a walk hoping to hear woodcocks. None were heard. Following the walk we went for dinner at Boss Hawg BBQ.

Presentation: Lesser Praire-Chicken and the Endangered Species Act • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Mar 19th, 2013 @ 7pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th St N • Wichita, KS • Map

Dr. Gene Young, Professor of Biology Northern Oklahoma College
“Lesser Prairie-Chicken and the Endangered Species Act”
Gene will provide an overview of the Act and the process of review and determination, using the Lesser Prairie-Chicken as a case study.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

More Info: website

Sponsor: Wichita Audubon Society

Native Milkweeds and the Insects that Love Them • Johnson County

Saturday, Mar 16th, 2013 @ 1pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th • Bucyrus, KS • Map

Our Native Milkweeds and the Insects that Love Them
Over 100 species of Milkweeds populate North America and ten of them call Eastern Kansas “home”. Not only do these plants provide food and shelter for many colorful insects, including the beloved Monarch, they are botanically fascinating. Learn their reproductive strategy and why it is a miracle that they ever successfully set seed. Then meet the cast of characters who risk their lives to sip the delicious nectar. Participants will learn how to include Milkweeds in their own gardens and become certified as a Monarch Waystation™.
Miami County Extension Master Gardener (EMG) Lenora Larson is a Board member and the Miami County representative for the Kansas Native Plant Society. She grows six species of Milkweed in her 4 acre certified butterfly garden in rural Miami County and welcomes all of the six and eight-legged visitors.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Snyder Prairie Workday: Spring Burn • Jackson County

Saturday, Mar 16th, 2013 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for March includes the initial spring prescribed burn of the prairies. Other prescribed burns will take place in March and April.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Mar 12th, 2013 @ 7pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs.

We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications.

Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our March focus herbs are CHICKWEED and LEMON BALM.

Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.
There is a $2 charge to cover costs (this is a non-profit group; no charge for students). No pets. Nursing babies and children over 10 are welcome.

Information & Monthly Newsletter: herbstudygroup@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HerbGroup

Contact: Tamara Fairbanks-Ishmael 785-331-4213

Talk: From Wild Lands to Working Lands to Urban Lands • Saline County

Tuesday, Mar 12th, 2013 @ 7pm

Kansas Wesleyan University • 100 E. Claflin • Salina, KS • Map

Curt Meine, Aldo Leopold scholar, gives a talk entitled “From Wild Lands to Working Lands to Urban Lands: Connecting Conservation Across the Landscape" This is the second of two evenings with Curt Meine being hosted at Kansas Wesleyan University.
Talk is in the Fitzpatrick Auditorium in the Fine Art Building on the KWU campus, located at Claflin & Santa Fe.
Sponsored by Resilience Group, Audubon Society, Biology club.

Contact: David Norlin 785 825-7847

Sponsor: Kansas Wesleyan University

Event Report

60 people attended the event.

All visitors were keyed into the topics. It was very well received.

Film: Green Fire • Saline County

Monday, Mar 11th, 2013 @ 7pm

Kansas Wesleyan University • 100 E. Claflin • Salina, KS • Map

The first full-length documentary film ever made about legendary environmentalist Aldo Leopold, Green Fire highlights Leopold’s extraordinary career, tracing how he shaped and influenced the modern environmental movement. Leopold remains relevant today, inspiring projects all over the country that connect people and land.
The film will be introduced by Aldo Leopold scholar Curt Meine. He will also entertain questions after the film. A reception will follow. This is the first of two evenings with Curt Meine being hosted at Kansas Wesleyan University.
Showing is in the Fitzpatrick Auditorium in the Fine Art Building on the KWU campus, located at Claflin & Santa Fe.
Sponsored by Resilience Group, Audubon Society, Biology club.

Contact: David Norlin 785 825-7847

Sponsor: Kansas Wesleyan University

Event Report

90 people attended the event.

Prairie Inspired Art Symposium • Harvey County

Saturday, Mar 9th, 2013 @ 9am-3:40pm

Dyck Arboretum of the Plains • 177 W. Hickory • Hesston, KS • Map

Kansas is fortunate to have within its boundaries some of the most expansive tracts of tallgrass prairie in the world and can, more than any other place, lay claim to the prairie as its iconic landscape. Prairie shapes the ecology and biology of our native Kansas wildlife, it permeates our natural and cultural history giving us a sense of place, and it is foundational to our ranching and agricultural economy. The prairie identity is also richly represented in the visual arts.

Talented Kansas artists are embracing the prairie and enriching the lives of people through their art expressed in a variety of forms. This symposium will showcase brief presentations from artists representing a diversity of media as they share images, processes, stories and inspirations that expand the beauty of their work. Works of art will also be on display and for sale. Come help us celebrate this connection between the visual arts and the prairie!

Contact: Brad Guhr 620-327-8127

More Info: Website link for more information

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum of the Plains

Oak Park Honeysuckle Removal • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Mar 9th, 2013 @ 8:30am-1pm

Oak Park • Wichita, KS • Map

The City of Wichita is sponsoring and overseeing a half-day event to remove bush honeysuckle at Oak Park in Wichita. Bush honeysuckle is a woody invasive non-native plant that shade out herbaceous plants and out-compete tree species for resources. In general, bush honeysuckle reduces wildlife habitat, species diversity, and causes a decline in the regeneration of Kansas' Oak-Hickory forests.
This will improve the long-term survival of this tiny fragment of habitat that has been the source of many great bird sightings over many decades. The event will be held from 8:30 am to 1 pm. Bring gloves and a spade shovel for digging out the plants. Small honeysuckle shrubs are easily pulled because of their shallow roots. Meet at North River Drive & West 11th Street. Sponsored by Wichita Parks & Recreation.

Contact: Jim Mason 316.683.5499

Sponsor: Wichita Parks & Recreation

Landscaping for Hummingbirds • Douglas County

Monday, Feb 25th, 2013 @ 7:30pm

Trinity Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall • 1245 New Hampshire Street • Lawrence, KS • Map

[CANCELLED]Chuck Otte, Geary County Extension Agent, one of the authors of "Birds of Kansas" and former President of KOS, will speak about "Landscaping for Hummingbirds."

Contact: Joyce Wolf 785-887-6019 or 785-766-0697

More Info: Monthly Newsletter

Sponsor: Jayhawk Audubon Society

Region 6 National Association for Interpretation Workshop • Riley County

Sunday, Feb 24th, 2013 to Wednesday, Feb 27th, 2013 @ allday

Hilton Garden Inn • 410 S. 3rd Street • Manhattan, KS • Map

The NAI Region 6 Workshop is a gathering of more than 150 professionals in the interpretive field from the six states of KS, MO, OK, AR, TX, and LA. Participants represent public and private parks, public forests, historic sites, museums, nature centers, zoos, aquariums, environmental centers, and anywhere informal cultural and natural education programs are offered to the public. This workshop will help you build your interpretive skills and allow you to learn new tips and tricks for dealing with program groups.

Contact: Pat Silovsky 785-238-5323

More Info: Region 6 workshop Packet

Sponsor: Region 6 NAI

Winter Tree ID Walk • Shawnee County

Saturday, Feb 23rd, 2013 @ 1pm-3pm

Dornwood Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Learn to identify trees with only buds, twigs, and bark as clues. We will walk the many trails through the Oak-Hickory woods of Dornwood Park. Learn to identify multiple oak, hickory and other trees & shrubs. Dornwood Park is located off of SE 25th & California in Topeka. Take the California exit off of I-70 and go south to SE 25th. Take a left onto 25th and follow it until it dead ends at the parking lot of Dornwood Park. Contact Jeff if you plan to attend. Note start time changed to 1pm.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785.806.6917

Event Report

5 people attended the event.

Ten inches of snow did not deter 5 hardy souls from trekking into the woods at Dornwood Park. As a group, we identified about thirty species of trees, shrubs, and woody vines at the park.

Presentation: Save the Last Dance - A Story of North American Grassland Grouse • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Feb 19th, 2013 @ 7pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th St North • Wichita, KS • Map

Noppadol Paothong, Staff photographer at the Missouri Department of Conservation
“Save the Last Dance - A Story of North American Grassland Grouse."
He's spent over a decade documenting these highly endangered birds, making captivating images of the species’ mating rituals and habitats. Books will be available for purchase and the author will be signing books after the program.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

Presentation: Butterfly Gardening with Native Plants • Shawnee County

Sunday, Feb 17th, 2013 @ 1pm-2pm

Kansas Expocentre • 1 Expocentre Drive • Topeka, KS • Map

Butterflies wouldn’t exist without the native plants their caterpillars require for food. Learn about various Kansas butterflies found around Topeka and the plants they use for food. A slideshow of butterflies, caterpillars, and plants will be shown. This presentation is part of the Garden Show. There is a charge to enter the garden show.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785.806.6917

Snyder Prairie Workday: Brush Cutting • Jackson County

Saturday, Feb 16th, 2013 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed. This month we will be cutting brush and piling up woody debris in an effort to prep prairie land for haying.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group February Gathering • Douglas County

Tuesday, Feb 12th, 2013 @ 7pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs.

We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications.

Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our February focus herbs are JUNIPER and CLOVES, plus there will be a bonus presentation on HEART HERBS, and you never know what you'll learn during our popular “Share, Show, and Tell” segment.

Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.

There is a $2 charge to cover costs (this is a non-profit group; no charge for students). No pets. Nursing babies and children over 10 are welcome.

Information & Monthly Newsletter: herbstudygroup@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/HerbGroup

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Work Day at Coyne Prairie • Missouri

Saturday, Feb 9th, 2013 @ 10am-3pm

Coyne Prairie • 37 30' 20.0 • Dade County, MO • Map

Volunteers are needed to clear and pile brush from a draw, 10am-3pm. Please bring gloves, handsaws, chain saws, protective gear and a sack lunch. Please RSVP MPF if you plan to attend. Coyne Prairie is located in southwest Missouri in Dade County.

Contact: MPF (888) 843-6739

Native Landscaping and Rain Gardens for Homeowners • Douglas County

Saturday, Feb 9th, 2013 @ 9-11:30am

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Building #1 • 2110 Harper Street • Lawrence, KS • Map

Expert presenters David Dods and Elliott Duemler will provide in-depth "do-it-yourself" information on using natives to create beautiful rain gardens.
Geared to homeowners and all other landscaping enthusiasts.
Cost: $15 for members of the Missouri Prairie Foundation/Grow Native!; $18 for nonmembers; free parking.

Contact: MPF

More Info: Registration Flyer

Sponsor: Missouri Prairie Foundation

Kaw Valley Seeds Project Fair • Douglas County

Saturday, Feb 9th, 2013 @ 9am-3pm

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Building 21 • 2110 Harper St. • Lawrence, KS • Map

This is the 4th annual fair. The Seed Fair features a seed exchange, educational exhibits and a raffle for various gardening-related prizes. The annual fair, which has drawn 1,200 visitors the past two years, is expected to include more than 40 exhibitors offering educational information, gardening products and local farm products. The seed exchange will take place at a central set of tables where gardeners may drop off garden seeds they will not use, including seeds produced in their home gardens as well as purchased seeds. Heirloom, open-pollinated seeds are especially welcomed. This year, the exchange also will include books, videos, catalogs, and other gardening and seed-saving resources. Anyone may contribute seeds and other resources to the exchange, but no one is obligated to make a contribution in order to obtain seeds or other materials from the exchange table.

Food from The Merc, the locally owned natural foods grocer in Lawrence, will be available for purchase throughout the day, and tables will be set up near the kitchen.

The Kaw Valley Seeds Project is a nonprofit whose mission is to create a Local Living Seed Reserve by fostering a network of people committed to growing and eating, sharing and bartering seed varieties that are native to or thrive in the Kansas River Valley. In addition, the project’s goal is to educate the general public on the pleasures of growing their own food by teaching them how to save, store and plant seeds from their own gardens, and where to obtain organic and local seed lines.

Contact: Daniel Bentley 785-842-4418

More Info: http://www.facebook.com/kawvalleyseeds

Sponsor: Kansas Area Watershed Council

Landscape Design with Nature in Mind • Douglas County

Friday, Feb 8th, 2013 @ 9-4pm

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Building #1 • 2110 Harper Street • Lawrence, KS • Map

In-depth information on many aspects of native landscaping--from soils to pollinators, water management and more. Don't miss learning from expert presenters Chip Taylor, Lee Skabelund, Ted Hartsig, and Elliott Duemler.

Geared to landscape designers, architects, nursery owners, and other land care professionals.
Cost: Friday's workshop: $35 for members of the Missouri Prairie Foundation/Grow Native!; $40 for nonmembers; free parking.

Contact: MPF

More Info: Registration Form

Sponsor: Missouri Prairie Foundation

Winter Board Meeting & Outing • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Jan 26th, 2013 @ 12-2pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

This is the winter board meeting. KNPS members are welcome to attend the board meeting. After the meeting (approximately 2:30pm) explore native plants along the surrounding trails. If the meeting needs to be rescheduled due to weather, we will meet on February 2.

Contact: KNPS

Snyder Prairie Workday: Brush Cutting • Jackson County

Saturday, Jan 19th, 2013 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed. This month we will be cutting brush and piling up woody debris in an effort to prep prairie land for haying.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Kaw Valley Eagles Day • Douglas County

Saturday, Jan 19th, 2013 @ 10am-4pm

Free State High School • Lawrence, KS • Map

Celebrate the return of the eagles and learn about the environment. Programs on area Bald eagles and other wildlife. Exhibitors will offer educational resources related to nature. Location: Free State High School, 1 block north of 6th & Wakarusa.

Contact: E Shaw (785) 842-0475

More Info: Kaw Valley Eagles Day

Sponsor: Jayhawk Audubon Society

Seed-Savers-KC - Winter Seed Exchange • Missouri

Saturday, Jan 19th, 2013 @ 11am-3pm

Anita B Gorman Discovery Center • 4750 Troost • Kansas City, MO • Map

Free event to promote seed saving and hopefully start a seed library. There will be speakers and videos on various topics regarding techniques. Please bring your own envelopes, bottles or sacks for storing the seeds for trading. No genetically modified seeds or invasives PLEASE!
Go to Facebook page to sign up if possible so we have an idea on the headcount.

Contact: Dayna McDaniel (816) 356-9892

More Info: Dayna A McDaniel

Sponsor: Seed-Savers-KC

Second Annual Seed Swap • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Dec 8th, 2012 @ noon-5pm

Sedgwick County Extension Office • 7001 West 21st Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

Interested in gardening with native plants? Come to the Second Annual Seed Swap at the Bison Room at the Sedgwick County Extension Office on Saturday December 8th from noon till 5:oo p.m. BRING seeds to trade or sell and pick up some new seeds for yourself. Native Kansas plant seeds will be available as well as popular garden plants such as hollyhocks, moonflowers and sunflowers. Live plants are welcome too. This is a great opportunity to pass on your extra seeds and try something new. Everyone is welcome!

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316-258-6341

Sponsor: KNPS

Spread prairie seed at Warren Nature Area • Shawnee County

Sunday, Dec 2nd, 2012 @ 11am-12pm

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Spread the seed we collected at Grant bradbury prairie in the Warren Nature Area. The Warren Nature Area grasslands are being restored to prairie. Wear leather gloves as the seed will stick to cloth gloves. After the seed is scattered, we will tour the progress of the restoration. Meet at the east end of the Felker parking lot near the Bocci Ball courts. Felker Park is located at 25th and Gage Blvd. Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Snyder Prairie Workday: Tree/Brush Cutting • Jackson County

Saturday, Nov 17th, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for November includes cutting and piling trees and shrubs using chainsaws and loppers.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Nov 13th, 2012 @ 7pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group will host guest speaker Laura Martin-Eagle of Moon Jewel Ayurveda on "Ayurveda & Herbs" and "Using Essential Oils" at our November meeting. Plus, we'll talk about "Herbal Gift Ideas," and there's always something extra. Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations. Join us! Tuesday, Nov. 13th @ 7pm. For info: HerbStudyGroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Fall Workday: Clear Bush Honeysuckle along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Saturday, Nov 10th, 2012 @ 10am-noon

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Help clear bush honeysuckle from the woods along Shunga Creek. We are going to clear an area of the woods of the honeysuckle and other invasives to allow the native species to flourish. We will focus on areas along the creek. The natives are barely hanging on because of the honeysuckle. The area we will be working is adjacent to the bridge at Gage & Shunga Creek. Parking is at the Tennis Courts near 26th & Gage Blvd. Wear sturdy shoes, leather gloves, long sleeves and pants. Bring a lopper or pruning saw to cut bushes; A shovel for digging them out. Pruning sheers for cutting vines. We need people to cut, haul branches and spray the cut stumps. You can also pull seedlings. Pulling seedlings is easy and prevents reinvestation. The City of Topeka will be supplying herbicide to treat the cut stumps to ensure the honeysuckle doesn't regrow. We will also pick up trash, and a few trash bags would be useful. After working we will take a nature walk around the area and identify invasive plants as well as natives. Felker Park is a park in Topeka that is off Gage Blvd adjacent to Shunga Creek. Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Event Report

Fall Workday: Clear Bush Honeysuckle along Shunga Creek

10 people attended the event.

An industrious group of native plant lovers cleared a substantial area adjacent to the paved trail and the creek. Some workers chopped out honeysuckle with an axe. Others used shovels. On our nature walk we admired paw paw trees and wahoo bushes. We also found an unopened can of pork in the woods! You never know what surprises await on a KNPS outing. The smiles say a lot - everyone had a ton of fun. One problem we encountered was a defective spray bottle and not enough spray bottles.

Native Woodland Restoration • Douglas County

Sunday, Nov 4th, 2012 @ 1-4pm

Hidden Valley Camp • 3420 W. Bob Billings Pkwy • Lawrence, KS • Map

Lawrence Hidden Valley Camp is located at 3420 W. Bob Billings Pkwy, in the center of Lawrence, KS. This 40-acre private, non-profit camp for local Girl Scouts and other youth has been managed with wildlife in mind for over 50 years. Our main focus of this annual fall workday will be clearing out the invasive honeysuckle shrubs and vines. Join scouts, neighbors, community groups and the Friends of Hidden Valley as we clear and burn honeysuckle, as well as other camp maintenance projects, including wetland maintenance, cutting fire wood, stocking woodpiles, cleaning fire rings, mulching trees, and much more; there are tasks for all ages. Most tools and gloves provided, although loppers, handsaws and chainsaws (and the skill to operate them safely) are always needed. Warming fires and refreshments provided by FHV: water, hot cocoa and s’mores! Dress in layers for the weather and wear durable, totally enclosed shoes. Minors under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, and everyone must sign a waiver.
Parking is limited; please contact Durand Reiber for more information. Rain date is Nov 11.

Contact: Durand Reiber 785.865.4657

Sponsor: Friends of Hidden Valley, inc.

Wine and Weeds • Johnson County

Friday, Nov 2nd, 2012 @ 1pm

320 South Blake • Olathe, KS • Map

On September 29, 133 volunteers planted 1,600 native plants in the new Pollinator Prairie on the former CCI superfund site in Olathe. The garden was dedicated on October 23rd and the weeds were already taking over. Unfortunately, most of those volunteers don’t know the good from the bad “weeds” so we KNPS members are stepping up to help.

Starting at 1:00 PM, Friday, November 2, we are getting down and dirty! As we weed, we’ll celebrate the four native plant gardens that are dedicated to birds, bees, butterflies and a Monarch Waystation. Rather than whining about those weeds, we will be ripping them out and toasting their demise with wine and snacks. Please join us and bring your favorite weeding tool.

Olathe Pollinator Prairie/ 320 South Blake/ Olathe, KS 66061

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Sponsor: KNPS

Morrill Tree Board Soup Supper • Brown County

Saturday, Oct 27th, 2012 @ 5-7pm

Morrill Community Building • Morrill, KS • Map

Guest Speaker at 6:00 p.m.
Holly Wilkens
“Importance of Native Plants in Attracting Wildlife, Birds, and Butterflies.”
Free Will Donation

Contact: Doug Grimm 785-459-2576

Sponsor: Morrill Tree Board

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Oct 20th, 2012 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be held once a month from May to October. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Snyder Prairie Workday: Prairie Seed Collection • Jackson County

Saturday, Oct 20th, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for October includes collecting and broadcasting of prairie seed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Burnett's Mound - Fall Skyline Park Workday • Shawnee County

Saturday, Oct 20th, 2012 @ 9am-12pm

Skyline Park • Topeka, KS • Map

We are continuing our project to remove trees and restore the native prairie on Burnett's Mound. The hilltop has been exposed and we are working our way down with chainsaws, loppers, and handsaws. We have work for everyone, from kids to adults. Bring gloves and any tools that you have and we will provide safety glasses, drinks and lunch for all. We will emphasize safety and will have a great time, while exposing Topeka's most prominent landmark. All are welcome and call if you have questions.

Contact: Brad Loveless 785.633.2118

Sponsor: Westar Energy

Butterflies and Climate: A year like no other? • Douglas County

Monday, Oct 15th, 2012 @ 7pm

Lawrence Fire Department • 1911 Stewart • Lawrence, KS • Map

On Monday, Oct. 15th GHF will host a presentation by Dr. Chip Taylor on the 2012 Butterfly season and the status of native butterfly populations in Kansas. Dr. Taylor is the founder and director of the Monarch Watch program at the University of Kansas and is a national leader in the study and conservation of monarchs and other native butterflies.

2012 has been a particularly challenging year for all Kansas butterfly populations. The annual spring monarch migration started very early this year, 3 weeks in some places, due to the warm winter. While the early migration provided an interesting research opportunity, the ensuing drought has significantly impacted all butterfly populations including monarchs. Dr. Taylor will talk about the consequences of these weather events and how our native butterflies are fairing.

The presentation will start at 7:00 PM and will be held in the Jayhawk Community Room at the Lawrence/Douglas Co. Fire and Medical Administration Bldg. (Fire Station #5), 1911 Stewart. An RSVP is requested. Contact Kim Bellemere at the Grassland Heritage Foundation for directions and to RSVP.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

Prairie Seed Collecting at Grant Bradbury • Shawnee County

Sunday, Oct 14th, 2012 @ 1-3pm

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed to help collect prairie wildflower and grass seed at Grant-Bradbury Prairie Park for a wildlife restoration area at Warren Nature Area. We will be working with the city to restore an old brome/fescue field to a diverse planting of native wildflowers and grasses. Volunteers should wear sturdy footwear and long pants. Bring a plastic pail or paper sack for collecting seeds. Pruning sheers are helpful too. No experience is necessary. All ages can help. Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend. We will celebrate afterwards with a stop at the Blind Tiger Brewery at 37th & Kansas.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785-806-6917

Event Report

Prairie Seed Collecting at Grant Bradbury

16 people attended the event.

Perfect day for seed collecting. Even with the drought, seed production was good for most plants. We collected switch, indian, big & little blustem, cordgrass, and a few others. Flowers included blue sage, sunflowers, mountain mint, and lead plant. After 2 + hours of work, we harvested 8 large paper grocery sacks of seed.

Overland Park Fall Woodland Tour • Johnson County

Wednesday, Oct 10th, 2012 @ 1pm-3pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

Tour the woodlands at the Overland Park Arboretum. This 100+ acre woodland has just about every native Kansas tree imaginable. To name just a few we have giant Sycamores so large you cannot reach around them, White Ash, Green Ash, Yellow Buckeye, Pawpaws, Hackberry, Coffee Trees, Elms, Post Oak, Bur Oak, Shingle Oak, Hickory, Walnuts, native vines with color and berries. A few native perennials are still hanging on and some Violets, Blue Mist flowers, Campanula and a few others are blooming out of season because of the hot dry summer.
Meet at the Visitors Center and we will start at 1PM sharp. Just show up and be prepared to see some very nice woodlands. Ken O'Dell spends several hours each year in these woodlands and it still amazes him the variety of native trees, shrubs and woodland plants we have at the Overland Park Arboretum. This place is fantastic.
We have five KNPS KC region leaders to guide this tour. Loretta Craig, Lenora Larson, Elizabeth Petroske, Micky Louis and Ken O’Dell.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Event Report

33 people attended the event.

We had a fantastic group of 33 KNPS members and guests take a two hour woodland tour at the bottomlands of the Overland Park Arboretum in Overland Park, Kansas on Wednesday, October 10th. A very enthusiastic group of very knowledgeable native tree experts and we figured out every tree on the arboretum. The weather was perfect. 65 degrees, low breeze, sunny. Some members traveled several miles to get here and it was nice to see them again. We already have three dates set aside for spring wildflower tours at the OP Arboretum in Johnson County, Kansas and we are lining up dates and tours for Leavenworth, Wyandotte and Miami County all in Kansas. Micky Louis sent this picture of our group. Micky, Thanks. Ken O'Dell

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Oct 9th, 2012 @ 7pm

Unitarian Fellowship of Lawrence • 1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs. We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications. Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.
Our October focus herbs are Witch Hazel and Artemesia (Wormwood). In addition to our topic herbs, we will be talking about The Herbs of Halloween and Creating your Own Aromatherapy Sprays and Spells, PLUS you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.

When: October 9, 2012, 7;00 p.m.
Where: Unitarian Fellowship of Lawrence (1263 N. 1100 Rd.)
Who: Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.
There is a $2 charge to cover costs (KVHSG is a non-profit group; no charge for students). No pets. No children under 10.

Information & Monthly Newsletter: herbstudygroup@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HerbGroup

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Overland Park Arboretum BioBlitz • Johnson County

Saturday, Sep 29th, 2012 @ 9am-4pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 West 179th Street • Overland Park, KS • Map

Scientists, teachers, students and the puiblic will participate in this one day inventory of species at the Arboretum. Several KNPS members are BioBlitz leaders. Plants to be counted include Trees, Flowers, and Mushrooms. Information and registration is at www.opabg.org. The cost is $25/participant. Lunch will be available for sale. Rain or shine! See the link to the brochure for more information.

Contact: Dan Johnson

More Info: Bioblitz Brochure (PDF)

Sponsor: Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Visitors' Day at Konza Prairie • Riley County

Saturday, Sep 29th, 2012 @ 8am-4pm

Konza Prairie Biological Station • 100 Konza Prairie Lane • Manhattan, KS • Map

Visitors' Day is the one time (every other year) where we open our doors to the public. Here's a quick look at what we'll have available:

- Free rides around the Bison Loop. Ride with a trained docent and see the 10-mile loop around our 2,500 acre bison enclosure. Learn about our grassland management methods and see the bison up close.
- Hayrides around the research area around the headquarters. These rides are usually lead by Konza researchers and this is a wonderful time to learn about the current research being done on the site.
- For the kids: learn about bison, catch grasshoppers, make a wildflower collage, or become a junior ecologist. We'll have lots to do for the young people in your life!
- Walk the Nature Trail or our other trail, the Butterfly Hill Trail. Butterfly Hill is rarely open to the public so here's your chance to come onto the site and see a new facet to Konza Prairie.
- See posters about some of the current research being done and chat with volunteers or researchers.

All activities are free and open to the public. We hope to see you there!

Contact: Jill Haukos, Director of Education, (785) 587-0381, konzaed@ksu.edu

Contact: Jill Haukos (785) 587-0381

Sponsor: Konza Prairie Biological Station

Prairie Festival at The Land Institute • Saline County

Friday, Sep 28th, 2012 to Sunday, Sep 30th, 2012 @ 8pm(friday)

The Land Institute • 2440 E. Water Well Rd. • Salina, KS • Map

The Land Institute sponsors an annual Fall Prairie Festival with nationally-known speakers. The speaker line-up: Mary Berry, Wendell Berry, Eric Gimon, Michelle Mack, David W. Orr, P. Sainath, and of course, Wes Jackson. Saturday evening's entertainment will be provided by the very talented singer/songwriter, Eliza Gilkyson (www.elizagilkyson.com). The featured gallery artist this year is Gesine Janzen (gesinejanzen.com), and we have a special art installation by sculptor Bill McBride as an accompaniment to our Friday night barn dance and bonfire.

Contact: Scott Seirer 785-823-5376

More Info: Event Description and Registration

Sponsor: The Land Institute

Invasive Plants of the Greater KC Area • Douglas County

Monday, Sep 24th, 2012 @ 7pm

Trinity Lutheran Church • 1245 New Hampshire • Lawrence, KS • Map

34th Annual Wildflower Weekend • Cowley County

Friday, Sep 21st, 2012 to Sunday, Sep 23rd, 2012 @ 8am-5pm

Southwestern College • Winfield, KS • Map

The Annual Wildflower Weekend (AWW) will be held in and around Winfield Kansas in the southern Flint Hills. All AWW events are listed as individual events in this calendar.

Contact: KNPS

Winfield Prairie Tour, AWW Tour #1 • Cowley County

Friday, Sep 21st, 2012 @ 2:30pm

Southwestern College • Winfield, KS • Map

Marjorie Snyder, KNPS regional leader for the Winfield Region has gained permission to tour the Flint Hills pasture next to her residence. There is a creek that runs through the property with grasslands on both sides of the creek. We will botanize in the pasture and along the road adjacent to it. Restrooms are available at Marjorie’s house. This site is only open to us during our tour. We will meet at Southwestern College parking lot on Fowler Avenue and caravan to the site. This is one of four tours as part of the 2012 Annual Wildflower Weekend.

Contact: Marjorie Snyder 316.680.7658

More Info: AWW 2012

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Event Report

75 people attended the event.

Tallgrass Express String Band Concert • Cowley County

Friday, Sep 21st, 2012 @ 7-9pm

Southwestern College • 100 College Street • Winfield, KS • Map

A special donation was made to KNPS to bring the Tallgrass Express String Band to play a concert at the Richardson Performing Arts Center. The Arts Center is located in the Christy Administration Building located off of King Drive. The concert is open to the public with no cost for admission. They perform original songs that are inspired by the prairie. This concert will feature songs about Flint Hills plants and animals like “Big Bluestem: King of the Prairie” and “Wildflower Reunion.” The four-member string band sings and plays a variety of instruments including fiddle, banjo, mandolin, guitar, upright bass, dobro, harmonica, and concertina. This FREE concert is part of the 2012 Annual Wildflower Weekend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785-806-6917

More Info: AWW 2012

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Event Report

90 people attended the event.

Breeding Biology and Feeding Ecology of Great Egrets and Snowy Egrets in Wichita • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Sep 18th, 2012 @ 7pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th St North • Wichita, KS • Map

Dr. Alan Maccarone, Professor of Biology, Friends University
Alan will present insights from eight years of studying two breeding colonies of egrets in Wichita, including energy patterns and differences between two species. Note: NEW program time 7:00 pm.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Sep 15th, 2012 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be held once a month from May to October. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Event Report

2 people attended the event.

Snyder Prairie Workday: Prairie Seed Collection • Jackson County

Saturday, Sep 15th, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for September includes collecting and broadcasting of prairie seed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Tuttle Creek Lake Fall Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Saturday, Sep 8th, 2012 @ 10am-noon

Tuttle Creek Lake Visitor’s Center • 5020 Tuttle Creek Blvd • Manhattan, KS • Map

Plan to be a part of the fall wildflower walk at Tuttle Creek Lake, led by KNPS guides. This is an opportunity to see and learn about the fall flowers of the Flint Hills such as: boneset, tall thistle; curly cup gumweed, liatris (gayfeather); several different species of sunflowers and also goldenrods and native asters. Each participant will receive a free copy of A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers and Grasses to use during the hike and then take home. So we will know how many to expect for the outing, please preregister with UFM Community Learning Center 785(539-8763) or info@tryufm.org. There is no registration fee.

Contact: Paul Weidhaas 785-539-8511

Sponsor: Tuttle Creek Lake

Kansas Wildflowers Presentation • Sedgwick County

Wednesday, Aug 29th, 2012 @ 12:15-1pm

Botanica • 801 N. Amidon • Wichita, KS • Map

Join the Lunchtime Lecture series for a wildflower photo show of Kansas native plants. We will appreciate the beauty of the flowers and also learn interesting facts about the plants and how to recognize plant families. A catered lunch is available or bring your own.

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316-258-6341

Sponsor: KNPS

Snyder Prairie Workday: Sericea Lespedeza Control • Jackson County

Saturday, Aug 25th, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

Note, date moved up a week. GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for August includes control of sericea lespedeza, an invasive species.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Aug 18th, 2012 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be held once a month from May to October. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Event Report

6 people attended the event.

Wild Edible Plant Walk • Cowley County

Saturday, Aug 18th, 2012 @ 9am-11:

Chaplin Nature Center • 27814 27th Drive • Arkansas City, KS • Map

Take a walk and the wild side and discover some of nature’s natural bounty. Participants will hike along the trails and identify some of the more common edible and poisonous plants. Call the Nature Center at(620)442-4133 to make reservations.

Contact: Shawn Silliman 620-442-4133

Sponsor: Chaplin Nature Center

GHF Purple Loosestrife Eradication Day and Trade-In Event • Douglas County

Saturday, Aug 18th, 2012 @ 8:30am

Pat Dawson-Billings Nature Area • Lawrence, KS • Map

On Aug. 18, 2011 The Grassland Heritage Foundation (GHF) will host our 3rd Annual Purple Loosestrife Eradication Day and plant Trade-In Event from 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM at the Pat Dawson-Billings Nature Area. The entrance to the Nature Area is southwest of the intersection of 27th Street & Crossgate Drive. We’ll tear out invasive purple loosestrife plants from the park and homeowners can bring purple loosestrife plants from their yards and receive a FREE native prairie plant as a replacement!

We need your help! If you'd like to do your part to protect our wetlands and wet prairies, bring your shovels, trowels, and gloves and help us get rid of this wetland invader. Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet and bring a bottle for water. GHF will have extra tools, water and other refreshments on hand.

New this year is a special opportunity for homeowners. All Douglas County homeowners who have purple loosestrife plants growing in their yards can bring the plants to the event and GHF will give them FREE native flowering plants as replacements. This is a one-to-one trade with a limit of 3 replacement plants per household. This is a great opportunity for homeowners to get rid of a dangerous plant and get a great prairie native in return. Some rules do apply so contact GHF for all of the details.

An RSVP is preferred. This is a rain or shine event. Contact Kim Bellemere, GHF Membership and Education Coordinator at grasslandheritage@gmail.com or 785-840-8104 for more information, a list of plant trade-in rules, and to RSVP. Also, check out the GHF Facebook page for updates.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

North American Prairie Conference •

Monday, Aug 6th, 2012 to Saturday, Aug 11th, 2012 @ 8am-5pm

University of Manitoba • Winnipeg, MB • Map

The 23rd North American Prairie Conference at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, August 6 – 10, 2012, is the first time this major international event will be held in western Canada. Over 400 native prairie experts and enthusiasts from across Canada, the USA and elsewhere are expected to attend. The 23rd NAPC’s theme ”Celebrating Our Prairie Heritage” features state-of-the-art research on the amazing prairie ecosystem that supports us all. From biology and wildlife to conservation, restoration, education, history, culture and art, the 23rd NAPC is guaranteed to whet appetites and stimulate interest in one of the world’s greatest, yet most endangered ecosystems.

Contact: 2012 NAPC (204) 832-0167

More Info: Field Trips

Sponsor: 2012 North American Prairie Conference

Presentation: Kansas Wildflowers • Shawnee County

Thursday, Aug 2nd, 2012 @ 7-8pm

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library • 1515 SW 10th Avenue • Topeka, KS • Map

Learn the fundamentals of wildflower identification. There are nearly 2100 species of wild flowering plants growing in Kansas. Learn how to identify our many wildflowers and other plants by learning various characteristics of different species. A slideshow presentation will cover our most primitive plants (mosses and ferns) to our most evolved (asters and orchids). Information on local wildflower walks will also be covered. Presented by Jeff Hansen, Kansas Native Plant Society. Call Kathy at 580-4540 for more information. Meet in the Anton Room (202).

Contact: Jeff Hansen

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk [CANCELLED] • Chase County

Saturday, Jul 21st, 2012 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be held once a month from May to October. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Snyder Prairie Workday: Sericea Lespedeza Control • Jackson County

Saturday, Jul 21st, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for July includes control of sericea lespedeza, an invasive species.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Dialog on Sustainability • Riley County

Saturday, Jul 21st, 2012 @ 8am-4:30pm

Kansas State University • 1100-1182 Denison Ave • Manhattan, KS • Map

2012 Seventh Annual Dialog on Sustainability: Finding an Optimal Path to a Sustainable World

Topics at this year's annual conference will include climate change and rural sustainability, sustainable communities, and solar powered charge stations. A panel will help identify current environmental, natural resource, and sustainability priority issues and concerns. Activities will include discussions, small group dialogs, posters, exhibits, lunch (provided) and more.

Sign-in opens at 8:00 a.m. Activities begin at 8:30 a.m. and the program starts at 8:45 a.m. All who are interested are invited to attend and actively participate in the dialog. Continuing education credits are available.

Cost: Free, lunch provided, but Pre-Registration is required (due by July 9):
Please send your name and contact information (affiliation, phone and e-mail address).

Posters & Displays Information (due by July 9):
There is no fee for exhibitors. We encourage you to bring information on sustainable activities that your organization is involved with to share. Posters, brochures, flyers, fact sheets, university course descriptions, and information on future sustainability events are invited.) Poster abstracts and author information is requested.Tables will be available upon request.

Please send your reservation and poster and display space requests by July 9 to:

Sheree Walsh
chsr@ksu.edu (email preferred)
(785) 532-6519

Center for Hazardous Substance Research
104 Ward Hall, KSU
Manhattan, KS 66506

Contact: Sheree Walsh (785) 532-6519

More Info: DOS Information and Agenda

Sponsor: KSU Consortium for Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability (CESAS)

Long Lips Farm Garden Party • Miami County

Saturday, Jul 14th, 2012 @ 5pm-midnight

27995 Plum Creek Road • Paola, KS • Map

This fourth annual event celebrates a 4 acre butterfly garden set in a rural 27 acre property that includes pasture, lake, swamp and hardwood forest. Over 500 plants, including many natives, populate the planted gardens which are certified by the North American Butterfly Association and Monarch Watch. This will be a KNPS caterpillar native plant tour and the Idalia Butterfly Society members will assist with identification of butterflies, moths and dragonflies. MICO Master Gardeners will lead tours and discuss the plantings.

Hillsdale BBQ will be supplied. Guests should bring a side dish to pass, their beverages and lawn chairs. Children are welcome to swim or fish in the lake. Please, NO PETS; this is a certified wildlife habitat.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360 (cell)

Summer Board Meeting • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Jul 14th, 2012 @ 1-3pm

Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library • 4051 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

The board meeting will be held in the library which is also a nature center. Members are welcome to attend the meeting.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

More Info: Library Info

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Manhattan Butterfly Count • Riley County

Thursday, Jul 12th, 2012 @ 9am-2:30pm

Manhattan Plant Materials Center • 3800 S 20th St • Manhattan, KS • Map

The 38th Annual North American Butterfly Association (NABA) Count will be held at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Manhattan Plant Materials Center (PMC). There is no charge to participate in the count, but volunteers need to register by July 10, by calling 785-539-8761, to assure adequate supply of materials and handouts. Those attending should bring a sack lunch, bug spray, binoculars, field guides, and camera (if you have them) and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Attendees at the event will be on their own for transportation. If special accommodations are needed, please let the PMC know.

Contact: Richard Wynia 785-539-8761

Sponsor: Manhattan Plant Materials Center

Native Plants to Attract Birds (Want Birds? Get Bugs!) • Wyandotte County

Thursday, Jul 12th, 2012 @ 11:30am-1pm

Wyandotte County Extension Office • 1216 North 79th • Kansas City, KS • Map

Want Birds? Get Bugs!
Birds have the same needs as humans: shelter, water, and food. Most homeowners can easily supply shelter, nesting sites and water, but food is not just nuts and berries in the fall. Or sunflower seeds and suet in your winter feeder. No, 96% of terrestrial North American birds eat insects and raise their young on a diet of caterpillars, beetles, bugs and worms. Even hummingbirds feed their babies tiny flies and spiders.

To attract birds, you must first plant to attract the insects they feed on. And 90% of insects are specialists, feeding on the native plants they co-evolved with. This presentation will feature native insect host trees, shrubs and flowers to set a banquet for our common birds. No, you will not need insecticides because birds happily devour the insects, those protein-filled packets of yummy goodness. Additional suggestions for water sources and backyard feeders will equip participants to maximize year-round visits from our avian friends. Meet in the Sunflower Room of the Wyandotte County Extension Office.

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Sponsor: KNPS--KC Region & WYCO EMG

Event Report

33 people attended the event.

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Jul 10th, 2012 @ 7pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs. We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications. Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our July focus herbs are Mint and Bergamot. In addition to our topic herbs, we will be talking about Teaching Kids About Herbs, and you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.

When: July 10, 2012, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Unitarian Fellowship of Lawrence (1263 N. 1100 Rd.)
Who: Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.
There is a $2 charge to cover costs (KVHSG is a non-profit group; no charge for students). No pets. No children under 10.

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

More Info: Facebook Page

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Byron Walker Habitat Tour • Kingman County

Friday, Jul 6th, 2012 @ 8am

8685 W. Highway 54 • Cunningham, KS • Map

Pheasants Forever is hosting a habitat tour focusing on habitat diversity and the importance of native wildflowers and pollinator insects to raising successful broods of pheasants and quail. The tour will last approximately three hours. In the morning, we will start with a few short presentations covering the importance of vegetative diversity and wildflowers in grasslands for successful game bird populations, ways to improve bird habitat in CRP, grassland management techniques that are being employed on the Wildlife Area to promote diversity, and common pollinator insects that can be found in the area. Following the presentations, we will stop at two sites on the Wildlife Area for short nature walks to see first-hand how the grasslands have responded to the management employed by Wildlife Area staff, as well as giving participants the opportunity to see and learn about native wildflowers and pollinator insects.
If you are interested in attending or would like more information on the tour, please contact the local Pheasants Forever Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist, Zac Eddy, at (620)338-7132 or zeddy@pheasantsforever.org.

Contact: Zac Eddy 620.338.7132

Sponsor: Pheasants Forever

Tuttle Creek Lake Summer Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Saturday, Jun 30th, 2012 @ 10am-noon

Tuttle Creek Lake Visitor’s Center • 5020 Tuttle Creek Blvd • Manhattan, KS • Map

Plan to be a part of the summer wildflower walk at Tuttle Creek Lake, led by KNPS guides. This is an opportunity to see and learn about the summer flowers of the Flint Hills. Each participant will receive a free copy of A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers and Grasses to use during the hike and then take home. So we will know how many to expect for the outing, please preregister with UFM Community Learning Center 785(539-8763) or info@tryufm.org. There is no registration fee.

Contact: Paul Weidhaas 785-539-8511

Sponsor: Tuttle Creek Lake

Lake Wilson Wildflower Walk • Russell County

Saturday, Jun 23rd, 2012 @ 10am-12pm

Minooka Park Recreation Area • Sylvan Grove, KS • Map

We will gather at the entrance road to Minooka Park (south-central area of Lake Wilson) at 10:00 am and proceed to the trailhead together. See the description of the area below. We recommend wearing study hiking shoes and appropriate clothing along with sunscreen and hat. We will provide a cooler with ice and water bottles. Be prepared for a great experience! Spread the word to anyone else who may be interested! Please RSVP Chelsea if possible, so we don't leave anyone behind!
About the park: In the fall of 2011, the Corps of Engineers at Wilson Lake put the finishing touches on the newest trail at Wilson Lake. The Prairie Fire Trail is a self-guided interpretive trail located in Minooka Park that offers visitors either a 2.5 mile loop style trail, or if you prefer shorter distances, opt for the 1.5 mile one-way trail that leads to one of the 2 trailheads. The trail offers a variety of breath taking scenery and several interesting historical stops that include the 1993 tornado damage path and an abandoned campground that has a ghostly appearance. Hikers can also visit several unique natural rock formations and see the effects of prescribed fire on the prairie ecosystem.
Hikers should expect gentle to moderate slopes throughout the mowed trail. It is recommended that hikers bring hiking/walking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen, a cell phone and most importantly, a friend or family member.

Contact: Chelsea Juricek 620-290-3918

More Info: Map of Lake Wilson

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Event Report

2 people attended the event.

It was a hot and windy morning at Wilson Lake as the 2 attendees tried out the newest trail called the Prairie Fire trail. You could definitely pick out the damage from the 1993 tornado as there was debris still scattered around the lakeside and trees were leafing out from the damaged branches. We came across several plants along the trail including; Missouri goldenrod, Dakota verbena, narrowleaf bluets, and silktop dalea. The trail is extensive and would make a wonderful trek if there wasn't heat and wind, which most likely contributed to low attendance.

Marvin Schwilling Memorial Butterfly Count in the Flint Hills • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 23rd, 2012 @ 8:30am-4pm

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Kansas Highway 177 • Strong City, KS • Map

This is the 4th Annual Count. No prior experience in identifying butterflies is necessary. Please bring binoculars. A digital camera may also come in handy. Suggested attire includes hiking boots, hat, and long pants. Come for the whole day or just half a day.

Be sure to RSVP 620-273-6034. Lunch and water provided. Group counts will run from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 (noon) and again from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There will be a small lunch break between sessions to compare notes, share adventures, and switch groups and locations. Transportation to counting locations will be by car-pooling in private vehicles, which will be no further than 7 miles one way.

Walk-ins are welcome. Come Join the Fun!!!

Contact: Paula Matile 620-273-8556

More Info: event flyer

Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy

Event Report

Marvin Schwilling Memorial Butterfly Count in the Flint Hills

45 people attended the event.

Grant-Bradbury Prairie Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Jun 21st, 2012 @ 6:30pm-dark

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Join KNPS for the 10th Annual walk at Grant-Bradbury Prairie Park. This 80-acre pristine tallgrass prairie contains over 300 plant species. On this tour, you will learn and see the plants and animals of the prairie. Bring a camera because the spring wildflowers will be at their peak. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes. Children are encouraged to come. Jeff Hansen, wildflower expert, will lead the tour. Directions: Take Topeka Blvd south to the University Blvd intersection (stoplight), take a right. Take University west about half a mile - when the road curves south, you are at the driveway to the park gate. There is a small building at the driveway. Contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917

Event Report

20 people attended the event.

The group enjoyed a perfect evening on the prairie with comfortable temps and low humidity. The leadplant covered the prairie with its purple blooms. Attendees enjoyed the blooms of New Jersey tea and serrate leaf evening primrose. As always the children that attended had fun with the mucus like sap of the Ohio spiderwort. Everyone was intrigued by the many walking stick insects found on the prairie as well.

Little Flower Farm Prairie Walk • Jefferson County

Wednesday, Jun 20th, 2012 @ 10am

5858 Washington Rd. • McLouth, KS • Map

About our prairie: We have 15 acres of preserved tallgrass prairie. Due to the presence of certain plants, we are confident that it has not ever been plowed or even significantly grazed. There is a spring in the prairie, so we have some moister areas and some drier areas. To this point, we have documented a number of wildflowers and grasses, including Pale Purple Coneflower, Purple Prairie Clover, Butterfly Milkweed, Prairie Blazing Star, Leadplant, Eastern Gamagrass, Slender Mountain Mint, Wood Betony, Golden Alexanders, Prairie Larkspur, Black Eyed Susan, Sawtooth Sunflower, Sweet Coneflower, Common Spiderwort, Prairie Phlox, Prairie Cordgrass, Pendant Bullrush, and the threatened Mead's Milkweed, to name only some of what is growing out there. We burned the prairie early this spring and it is growing just fabulously this year. This is a private prairie and is only open to the public on this day.

Contact: Stacey Johnson 913-796-6120

More Info: Little Flower Farm

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Event Report

29 people attended the event.

Stacey Johnson graciously hosted KNPS on her beautiful diverse prairie. She showed us "her" Mead's milkweeds that had bloomed and had pods on them. Her's are a newly discovered population. We also enjoyed such plants as prairie milkweed (A. hirtella), slender mountain mint, compass plant, scaly blazing star (Liatris squarrosa var. hirsuta), and Culver's root. We also observed Regal fritillary butterflies & an arrowhead spiketail dragonfly.

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 16th, 2012 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be held once a month from May to October. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

GHF Prairie Appreciation Day • Jackson County

Saturday, Jun 16th, 2012 @ 9am-3pm

Rachel Snyder Prairie • see directions • Mayetta, KS • Map

Come spend a day on the prairie with the Grassland Heritage Foundation (GHF). We will host the 4th Annual GHF Prairie Appreciation Day on Saturday, June 16 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM at Rachel Snyder Prairie. We’ll have fun family-friendly activities including walks, lunch, displays, a prairie scavenger hunt, and even opportunities to help with restoration work. Everyone is encouraged to bring their cameras and sketchbooks. An RSVP is requested.

New this year will be a photography walk led by noted nature photographer Jerry Sipe of Lawrence, KS and a prairie scavenger hunt for kids of all ages.

In addition to Jerry’s walk, we’ll again host a plant walk by Snyder Prairie Land Manager, Frank Norman and do prairie restoration work in the afternoon. Everyone interested in helping with the restoration should dress appropriately for field work which includes jeans, boots, and a hat. You should also bring a water bottle.

Snyder Prairie is located approx. 17 miles north of Topeka on Hwy. 75. To get to the prairie take Hwy. 75 to 158th St. (just south of Mayetta) Turn east on 158th St. and go approx. 3 miles to U Rd. Turn right (south) on U Rd. and proceed another ½ mile to the gate. Parking is available along the road.

Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre native and restored tallgrass prairie owned by the Grassland Heritage Foundation. Prairie Appreciation Day provides the public with a rare opportunity to tour one of the largest remaining tallgrass prairies in NE Kansas and experience its unique beauty for themselves.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Kim Bellemere at 785-840-8104 or grasslandheritage@gmail.com.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

KU Medicinal Garden Summer Tour • Douglas County

Saturday, Jun 16th, 2012 @ 10am-noon

KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Garden • 1865 E. 1600 Road • Lawrence, KS • Map

The garden is half a mile north of Highway 40, adjacent to the Prairie Moon Waldorf Schools grounds. Meet just inside the gate under our shade structure at the center of our demonstration garden. We'll provide our signature tea made from three native mints.

We’ll tour all areas of the garden, including our research plantings, our demonstration/show garden, our natural dye garden and the KU Student Farm. KU students involved in projects at the research garden site will be on hand to visit. Here's some of what you'll see:

* Demonstration/show garden -- This 70- by 80-foot garden, planted last year, includes seven different themed beds of medicinal plants: three native mints, echinacea species, milkweed species, tea/scented medicinal plants, native edible plants, classical European medicinals, and native plants in the U.S. Pharmacopeia and National Formulary.

* Shade structure -- At the center of the show garden, this architecturally appealing shelter is built entirely from reclaimed lumber from Westar.

* KU Student Farm -- Now in its second year of full operation, it's thriving as a community garden with 50 separate plots.

* New research plantings -- Our research section of about will include 25 species, including six newly plants species. Nearly a dozen species have been harvested from this area for medicinal testing.

* Native plants natural dye garden -- This garden is part of an independent study by a KU fine arts student.

Contact: Kirsten Bosnak 785-864-6267

More Info: Events

Sponsor: KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program

Prairie Wildflowers at Kill Creek Park and Betsy's Peaceful Prairie • Johnson County

Saturday, Jun 16th, 2012 @ 9am

Kill Creek Regional Park • Lexington Township, KS • Map

Join Matt Garrett, field biologist for Johnson County Parks and Recreation, for a tour of the 30 acre native prairie at Kill Creek Park. Exit K-10 in western Johnson County, on Kill Creek Rd. Travel south about 2.5 miles until the road T's, turn right, then turn left and finally turn right into the Park. Park in the first parking lot on the right. After this tour, we will travel a short distance to view a diverse 3 acre prairie brought back by the removal of woody vegetation. Directions provided that day.

Contact: Lynda Ochs 913-469-4361

Mitchell Farmstead and Mt. Mitchell Heritage Prairie Open House • Wabaunsee County

Saturday, Jun 16th, 2012 @ 10am-2pm

Mitchell Prairie Lane • Wamego, KS • Map

Film-maker/historian Gary Jenkins will give a talk about the Underground Railroad on the Western Frontier at the farm at 11 a.m.
Dave DeArmond, an artist from Merriam, KS will be painting “plein air” on site during the day. “Plein air” is the technique of painting out doors on location. It was used by Captain Mitchell’s daughter, Maude Josephine as the primary method for creating her art.
Visitors will be able to view the log cabin that William Mitchell built in 1856, which was used soon after to hide escaping slaves seeking their freedom in Canada. The home has been recognized by the National Park Service Network to Freedom program as a documented Underground Railroad site of national significance.
Come explore Mt. Mitchell. There are new trails, including a path to the ruts of the Topeka-Ft. Riley Road, which was the local route of the UGRR. See our handsome new parking area, retaining wall and refurbished kiosk.
Docents from the Kansas Native Plant Society and Konza Prairie will be on hand at the park to identify wildflowers and plants for visitors. A shuttle bus will run between the park and the farm.
The Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie is located on the east side of highway K-99, at Mitchell Prairie Lane three and a half miles south of Wamego or one half mile south of the Junction of K-18 and K-99.

Contact: Michael Stubbs 785-256-6228

More Info: Event Info

Sponsor: Mt. Mitchell Prairie Guards

Nature Conservancy Anderson County Prairies Tour • Anderson County

Saturday, Jun 16th, 2012 @ 10am-12noon

Anderson County Prairies Preserve • 5 miles south of Garnett, KS • Garnett, KS • Map

The Nature Conservancy’s Anderson County Prairie Preserve, five miles south of Garnett, lies within Kansas’ largest prairie landscape east of the Flint Hills. This high-quality tallgrass prairie preserve supports populations of Mead’s milkweed, greater prairie-chicken, and other rare species.

Through a partnership with the Kansas Biological Survey, Anderson County Prairie Preserve also serves as an outdoor laboratory for research on prairie ecosystems. Access is normally limited to researchers, so don’t miss this special opportunity to visit the preserve and learn more about the plants and animals of the region. The tour will begin with a brief presentation about patch-burn grazing at the preserve and conclude with small-group walking tours led by scientists and staff from the Kansas Biological Survey and Conservancy.

To cover The Nature Conservancy’s expenses for this event, the cost of the tour is $10 for Conservancy members and $15 for non-members. Reservations are required and space is limited. To register, please email Laura at lroseclawson@tnc.org or call (785) 233-4400. Specific location and further details will be sent to registrants prior to the tour.

Contact: Laura L. Rose Clawson 785-233-4400

More Info: Event Listing

Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Jun 12th, 2012 @ 7pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs.
We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications.
Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.
Our June focus herbs are LAVENDER and MULLEIN, and you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.
Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.
There is a $2 charge to cover costs (this is a non-profit group; no charge for students). No pets. No children under 10.

Information & Monthly Newsletter: herbstudygroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

More Info: Facebook Link

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Juneteenth Wildflower Walk • Geary County

Sunday, Jun 10th, 2012 @ 7pm

11003 Lower McDowell Rd. • Manhattan, KS • Map

Bird Runner Wildlife Refuge, the Juneteenth Committee, and Prairie Heritage, Inc. invite the public to enjoy, free of charge, A WILDFLOWER WALK on the TALL GRASS PRAIRIE. Members of the Kansas Native Plant Society will serve as prairie guides.

Arrive: Any time between 7-8 p.m. Walks will leave the Guest House every few minutes during this hour.
Depart: Any time between 8-10:30 p.m. Some moonlight activities may be scheduled.

Juneteenth and the prairie just go together! Juneteenth marks the end of formal slavery in the United States—a milestone along our freedom-way. The prairie embodies freedom! Unlike cropground, which is enslaved to the farmer, the prairie is a self-directing, self-realizing polyculture. In its combination of individualism, mutual interdependence, and autonomy, it is the biological version of our American ideal!

Directions: From I-70, Exit 307, travel 5 miles south on Lower McDowell Rd., staying on the paved road. When you get to #11003 (the old number, #4815, is still on the mailbox also), you will see the entrance to Bird Runner Wildlife Refuge on the left side of the road. Take the gravel drive past the pole barn, across the bridge, and up the hill to the guest house. Leave your car along the drive. A guide (serving iced tea) will greet you at the guest house.

Contact: Margy Stewart 785.539.5592

Sponsor: Bird Runner Wildlife Refuge & McDowell Creek Community Center

Grassland Heritage Festival at Cimarron National Grassland • Morton County

Saturday, Jun 9th, 2012 @ 9:30am

Morton County Historical Society Museum • 370 E Highway 56 • Elkhart, KS • Map

Join us for a wildflower walk at the Cimarron Grassland. Brunch & Slideshow at the museum, followed by Wildflower and Foliage tour led by Nancy Brewer. There will be a special emphasis on the wildlife of the grasslands. Vehicles will car pool from the Museum following brunch. Call the MCHS Museum (620) 697-2833 for tour reservations $5.00. See more info in the Grassland Heritage Festival link.

Contact: MCHS Museum (620) 697-2833

More Info: Grassland Heritage Festival

Sponsor: Morton County Historical Society Museum

Cowley County Wildflower Tour • Cowley County

Saturday, Jun 9th, 2012 @ 7:30am-1pm

Conservation District • 2118 E 9th St, Ste B • Winfield, KS • Map

Come join us as we explore the pastures on the Radcliff Ranch in eastern Cowley County. Native pastures provide a unique opportunity to enjoy native plants in their best possible environment. We will provide lunch and transportation to the ranch for a fee of $5 per person. Please come join us for a fantastic tour led by Conservation District, NRCS, KNPS, Farm Bureau and Southwestern College staff.

Contact: Rachel Workman 620-221-1850 ext 3

Exploration of the Santa Fe Trail and Flint Hills Prairie • Marion County

Saturday, Jun 9th, 2012 @ 10am

TBA • Lehigh, KS • Map

Landowner and trail historian, Steve Schmidt will tell interesting tales about the easily visible Sante Fe Trail running through the land he owns near Lehigh. This will also be a great time of the year to explore high quality prairie, and learn about the thriving ecosystem of grasses, wildflowers, butterflies and birds in all their glory. Bring a sack lunch and enjoy a rich experience of cultural and natural history of Kansas. This is private property that is only open to us on this day. Contact Brad Guhr (bradguhr@yahoo.com/316-217-4566) to sign-up and get directions.

Contact: Brad Guhr 316-217-4566

Grant County Wildflower Tour • Grant County

Saturday, Jun 9th, 2012 @ 9am-noon

Fuel Barn • 1845 West Oklahoma Avenue • Ulysses, KS • Map

Enjoy the fantastic wildflowers found in Grant County. Meet at the Fuel Barn located on Highway 160 west of Ulysses. Car pooling will be available. Wear sturdy walking shoes. You might want to bring sunscreen, water and a camera. Contact the Grant County Chamber of Commerce at 620-356-4700 for more information. No fee or reservation needed. Al

Contact: Marieta Hauser 620-356-4700

Event Report

10 people attended the event.

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, Spring Wildflower Tour #2 • McPherson County

Saturday, Jun 9th, 2012 @ 10am

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • 2565 Pueblo Road • Canton, KS • Map

Spring Wildflower Tour - June 2nd and 9th, 10 A.M.
Board the tram for tour of prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. Self guided walking tour with flowers flagged.

Contact: Della & Owen Meier 620-628-4455

More Info: Kansas Byways (Sue Stringer) 785-296-8669

Sponsor: Maxwell Wildlife Refuge

Earth Partnership for Schools Summer Institute • Harvey County

Monday, Jun 4th, 2012 to Friday, Jun 8th, 2012 @ 8am-5pm

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

This 40-hour institute for school teachers and staff will train you in the award-winning Earth Partnership for Schools (EPS) Program that you can share with your students and colleagues for years to come. Learn to engage your students in the process of prairie gardening on school grounds, earn three hours of graduate credit, take home an extensive curriculum, eat good food for a week, and have a fun and meaningful experience at the Dyck Arboretum!

Contact: Brad Guhr (620) 327-8127

More Info: Event Info

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Friends of Konza Prairie Annual Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Sunday, Jun 3rd, 2012 @ 6:30pm

Konza Prairie Biological Station • 100 Konza Prairie Lane • Manhattan, KS • Map

Wildflower walks of about one mile are led by Konza Environmental Education Program experienced docents.
This year we are adding slide shows and activities in the renovated barn (Konza Meeting Hall). Call 785 587-0441 for a reservation or goto the Wildflower Walk link. Please state the number of persons in your party. $10 for non-members/free to FOKP members. Join FOKP and enjoy other free events at Konza Prairie!

Contact: Valerie Wright 785 587-0441

More Info: Wildflower Walk

Sponsor: Friends of Konza

Butler County Wildflower/Hayrack Tour • Butler County

Sunday, Jun 3rd, 2012 @ 3pm

Raft Recreational Ranch • 13218 SW Tawakoni Rd • Augusta, KS • Map

The Raft Recreational Ranch is opening their annual wildflower tour to the public for the first time. The ranch has 240 acres of camping, golf, horseboarding, lake, etc. It looks much like a Monet painting the first week of June each year. The ranch is located 10 miles E of Rock Road and 1 1/2 miles North of 47th South or 150th in Butler County.

$10 includes hayrack ride, wildflower information, pink lemonade and home made cookies. The tour is being led by Mary Ann Fetherston. For more information contact Mary Ann.

Contact: Mary Ann Fetherston 316-993-1493

Sponsor: Raft Recreational Ranch

Hidden Valley Trail Maintenance • Douglas County

Saturday, Jun 2nd, 2012 @ 8am-noon

3420 W. Bob Billings Pkwy • Lawrence, KS • Map

Celebrate National Trails Day with us and join in our annual workday as we clear back encroaching brush along the numerous trails of Hidden Valley Camp, a 40-acre semi-wilderness area in the heart of Lawrence, KS.
Long pants and sleeves recommended, and sturdy, enclosed shoes a must. Tools and work gloves provided, as well as refreshments (ice water & trail mix). Sharp loppers and pruning saws optional. Any amount of time appreciated. Contact Durand for details. (Raindate: Saturday, June 9, 8am-noon)

Contact: Durand Reiber 785-865-4657

Sponsor: Friends of Hidden Valley

Sabetha Prairie Wildflower Tour • Nemaha County

Saturday, Jun 2nd, 2012 @ 1pm

Casey's General Store • 105 S Acorn Rd • Sabetha, KS • Map

Holly Wilkens, Nemaha County Pheasants Forever Wildlife Biologist, will discuss the importance of pollinators and explain how important our native plants are to our local wildlife. Jeff Hansen, a KNPS guide, will be available as well to assist as we explore an undisturbed native area with wagon wheel ruts still visible from pioneer days. Discover a remnant prairie filled with blooming wildflowers, grasses, and more! Greg Newlin, Brown & Nemaha County Historian, will explain the history of the Lane Trail that pioneers and slaves followed through this area.

Meet at the Casey’s General Store on Old Highway 75 in Sabetha at 1:00 p.m. and we will caravan to the location just north of the Sabetha Golf Course. This is private property so please be respectful and avoid walking on the planted cropland or leaving trash behind. Contact Nadine if you plan to attend.

Contact: Nadine Champlin 785-284-2627

Sponsor: KNPS, Grimm's Gardens & Prairie Place Designs

Event Report

31 people attended the event.

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, Spring Wildflower Tour #1 • McPherson County

Saturday, Jun 2nd, 2012 @ 10am

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • 2565 Pueblo Road • Canton, KS • Map

Spring Wildflower Tour - June 2nd and 9th, 10 A.M.
Board the tram for tour of prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. Self guided walking tour with flowers flagged.

Contact: Friends of Maxwell 620-628-4455

Smoky Hills Prairie Exploration • McPherson County

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012 @ 6-8pm

Location avaiable upon registration • Canton, KS • Map

Explore, identify birds and butterflies, and botanize "Buffalo Hill" in McPherson County near Canton. Witness beautiful vistas on this prairie gem in the Smoky Hills at its most glorious time of the year. Butterfly milkweed will be in bloom, the regal fritillaries will be in flight and the dickcissels, grasshopper sparrows, and meadowlarks will be giving a full serenade. Bring a sandwich and stay to watch the sunset if you would like. Lucky explorers may even see bison. This is private property that is only open to us on this day. Contact Brad Guhr (bradguhr@yahoo.com/316-217-4566) to sign-up and get directions.

Contact: Brad Guhr 316-217-4566

More Info: Become a KNPS member

Sponsor: KNPS

Topeka Nature Walk • Shawnee County

Wednesday, May 23rd, 2012 @ 6-7pm

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Take a one hour nature walk and learn more about birds, flowers, trees and insects from members of the Topeka Audubon Society and the Kansas Native Plant Society. Registration required. Call 785-580-4540 for registration, details and location. Limit 30 people. Sponsored by the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Contact: Kimberly Sain 785-580-4540

Osage County Woodland & Prairie Walk • Osage County

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2012 @ 6pm

16146 S Morrill Rd • Scranton, KS • Map

Vernon Montgomery is a very involved member of KNPS. He is inviting others to visit his property to share his native woodlands and prairie. This is private property. Directions: 2 miles S of Hwy 56 on Hwy 75 to 173rd St; 1 mile W to Morrill Rd; 1 ½ miles N to 16146 at curve. Call Vernon if you have questions.

Contact: Vernon Montgomery 785-640-3495

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, May 19th, 2012 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be held once a month from May to October. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Presentation: The Natural History of Kansas Milkweeds • Wyandotte County

Saturday, May 19th, 2012 @ 9am-noon

Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center • 4501 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society will host its spring meeting at Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center in Kansas City, KS at Wyandotte County Lake Park. The Library’s Lead Education Specialist and Naturalist Craig Hensley will present a talk entitled: The Natural History of Kansas Milkweeds. This presentation will focus on both milkweed identification as well as the variety of insects and other arthropods that benefit from these important plants. Milkweeds are not only important nectar sources for a host of insects, but also are homes to a variety of arthropods from monarch butterflies and beetles to aphids and crab spiders. All members of KNPS are welcome as is the general public. Schlagle Library is located in Wyandotte County Lake Park at 4051 West Drive, Kansas City, KS. Please call 913.299.2384 for more information and or directions.

Contact: Craig Hensley 913.299.2384

More Info: Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Snyder Prairie Workday: Invasive Species Control • Jackson County

Saturday, May 19th, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for May includes beginning invasive species control of the following: garlic mustard, bush honeysuckle, and musk thistle.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Shunga Bioblitz • Shawnee County

Friday, May 18th, 2012 to Sunday, May 20th, 2012 @ 6am-11pm

Felker Park • 2540 SW Gage Blvd. • Topeka, KS • Map

A BioBlitz is a study where a group of volunteers conduct a one day intensive biological inventory, attempting to identify and record all species of living organisms in a given area. Some types of organisms we hope to inventory: Plants, Fungus, Insects, Spiders, Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish, Birds, and Mammals. You can participate for any amount of time on the day of the event.

The bioblitz will take place in a complex of parks along Shunga Creek in southwest Topeka. This Complex of parks includes Wells Park, Warren Nature Area, and Big Shunga Park. Shunga Creek runs through the south edge of the area. There is a wetland in the center of Warren Nature Area. Woodlands are mostly along the creek and grasslands are found north of the creek. The total area is estimated to be about 300 acres.The area is bordered by Gage Blvd on the west, the VA & KNI on the north, Macvicar on the east, and 29th Street on the south. Meet at the Felker Park Parking Lot, 2540 SW Gage Blvd. See the schedule of events and register on the Bioblitz website.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785-806-6917

More Info: Shunga Bioblitz

Sponsor: Topeka Audubon Society

KLT's Annual Akin Prairie Wildflower Walk • Douglas County

Sunday, May 13th, 2012 @ 1pm-2:30pm

1850 N 1150 Rd • Lawrence, KS • Map

Led by KLT founding member Dr. Kelly Kindscher, our ever-popular Wildflower Walk is a treat for the soul and the senses. This event is free and open to all. Wear sturdy shoes, pants, hat, and repellent. Bring the family and enjoy the bouquet of the prairie meadow!

Contact: Carol Huettner (785) 749-3297

Sponsor: Kansas Land Trust

Barber County Wildflower Tour • Barber County

Saturday, May 12th, 2012 @ 8:30am

Medicine Lodge High School • 400 West Eldorado Avenue • Medicine Lodge, KS • Map

The Wildflower Tour begins at the High School in Medicine Lodge at 8:30 a.m. with registration. A continental breakfast is served and a short presentation is given to familiarize you with some of the flowers you will see on the tour. Then it is off to a morning wildflower identification site. After a guided tour of approximately 30 species it is off on a drive through the hills to a country park for a delicious barbecue lunch. A short drive through the scenic Gyp Hills guides us to a second identification stop with afternoon refreshments. The group will be back into town around 3:30 p.m. The fee for the Wildflower Tour is $15 per person, which covers the cost of the continental breakfast, lunch, afternoon refreshments, and transportation. Please remember that we require prepaid reservations for the Wildflower Tour. Payment is due by May 4. Send payment to Barber County Conservation District, 800 W. Third Ave Medicine Lodge, KS 67104.

Contact: Courtney Pilkington (620) 886-3721, ext. 3

More Info: Barber Wildflower Tour Info

Scatterer or Stratifier? What is your seed planting style? • Sedgwick County

Saturday, May 12th, 2012 @ 11am

504 W. Hendryx • Wichita, KS • Map

Nat Barton will present his seed propagation strategies beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday May 12 at his Prairie Pride Plants nursery and garden in Wichita. He will discuss the successes and changes for planting "next year". There are demontration flower beds with established plants to view and Nat will be on hand through the afternoon to discuss propagating and gardening with native plants. Please RSVP to Krista Dahlinger so we know how many are planning to attend.

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316-258-6341

Sponsor: Prairie Pride Plants

Woodland Wildflower Walk along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Wednesday, May 9th, 2012 @ 6pm-dark

Felker Park • 2540 SW Gage Blvd • Topeka, KS • Map

See spring woodland flowers in the woods along Shunga Creek. Volunteers have been clearing Amur honeysuckle from the woods since 2010. This invasive shrub elimates the native wildflowers. With the honeysuckle gone, the native plants will rebound. Some flowers we should see include blue phlox, Virginia waterleaf, paw paw, violets, and others. Meet at the Felker Park parking lot at the Tennis Courts off of Gage Blvd. RSVP Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, May 8th, 2012 @ 7pm

Unitarian Fellowship of Lawrence • 1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs. We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications. Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our May focus herbs are Parsley and Yarrow. In addition to our topic herbs, we will explore Herbal Companion Planting. Plus, you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.

Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.

There is a $2 charge to cover costs (KVHSG is a non-profit group; no charge for students). No pets.

Information & Monthly Newsletter: herbstudygroup@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kaw-Valley-Herbs-Study-Group/230479463668807

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

More Info: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Late Spring Wildflowers of Wyandotte County Lake Park (CANCELLED) • Wyandotte County

Saturday, May 5th, 2012 @ 1-4pm

Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center • 4501 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Unbeknownst to many, Wyandotte County Lake Park is home to a carpet of native woodland wildflowers each spring. Naturalist and Educator Craig Hensley will lead a wildflower walk through the woodlands of Wyandotte County Lake Park in search of late spring wildflowers including showy orchid, wild geranium and jack-in-the-pulpit, among others. This walk, co-sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center and the Kansas City region of the Kansas Native Plant Society, is open to the public as well as all members of the Kansas Native Plant Society. Please note that some of the hiking will be on narrow trails with inclines. Sturdy hiking shoes are advised. Participants will meet at the library at 4051 West Drive in the park (Kansas City, KS) and will drive from there to the hike locations.
To register for this walk, please contact Craig Hensley at Schlagle Library 913.299.2384 or by email at chensley@kckpl.org. This is the second of two spring walks.

Contact: Craig Hensley 913.299.2384

More Info: Woodland Wildflowers of Wyandotte County Lake Park

Sponsor: Kansas City Kansas Public Library

Tuttle Creek Lake Spring Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Saturday, May 5th, 2012 @ 10am-noon

Tuttle Creek Lake Visitor’s Center • 5020 Tuttle Creek Blvd • Manhattan, KS • Map

Plan to be a part of the spring wildflower walk at Tuttle Creek Lake, led by KNPS guides. This is an opportunity to see and learn about the spring flowers of the Flint Hills such as: ____. Each participant will receive a free copy of A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers and Grasses to use during the hike and then take home. So we will know how many to expect for the outing, please preregister with UFM Community Learning Center 785(539-8763) or info@tryufm.org. There is no registration fee.

Contact: Paul Weidhaas 785-539-8511

Sponsor: Tuttle Creek Lake

Smoky Hills Audubon Seed Planting • Saline County

Friday, May 4th, 2012 @ 9:30am

Smoky Hills Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary • Salina, KS • Map

Come help plant wildflower seeds at the Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary. The seeds have been purchased and the site has been prepared. This event is part of long term possibilities for enhancing the sanctuary's native vegetation and discouraging invasive plant species. You are welcome to stay awhile and walk the trails or sit by the pond. We also plan to get community kids to participate with the seed planting. Come out and join us in this celebration of prairie.

Directions are I 70 from Salina Exit 249 South on Hedville Road about 1/2 mile to Stimmel Road (Ell-Saline Elementary on sw corner). About 1/2 mi. east on Stimmel is our Kiosk and entry to the Sanctuary on the north side of the road.

Contact: Doug Rudick 785-342-9398

Sponsor: Smoky Hills Audubon

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale #2 • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 28th, 2012 @ 8am-1pm

City Market • 5th & Walnut • Kansas City, MO • Map

The Missouri Prairie Foundation's annual native plant sale will be held the last two Saturdays in April: April 21 and April 28 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the City Market, 5th and Walnut, Kansas City, MO. A large variety of native Missouri wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-779-6708

Wild & Wonderful Weeds Walk • Douglas County

Saturday, Apr 28th, 2012 @ 9am

Location details with RSVP (Lawrence) • Lawrence, KS • Map

Please join us for a Wild &Wonderful Weeds Walk in local wilderness to learn about wild herbs and MORE!

The most important herbs we need to know about are sometimes right in our own backyard or growing nearby -- but we call them "weeds." What we call weeds are frequently useful plants (Herbs!) we just haven't been properly introduced to yet.

Join us in taking a fun and educational walk to discover and identify the herbs growing right under our feet. Our tour guide will be local wilderness expert, Steven Figgins, of Plainscraft Wilderness School.

WHEN: Saturday, April 28th at 9:00 a.m. (allow 2 - 3 hours)

WHERE: Lawrence area (details with RSVP)

RSVP: Please RSVP to Tamara (herbstudygroup@gmail.com) by April 25th if you plan to attend. (Minimum 10). $5.00 per person (Goes to Plainscraft Wilderness School -- no charge for children).

Contact: Tamara no phone

KNPS Tour of The Land Institute • Saline County

Saturday, Apr 28th, 2012 @ 3pm

The Land Institute • 2440 E. Water Well Rd • Salina, KS • Map

If caravanning from Manhattan, meet at 1 pm Saturday, April 28, in the Manhattan Town Center parking lot between Penneys and Sears. Others, be at The Land Institute, 2440 E Water Well Rd, Salina, by 3 pm. Ken Warren, Director emeritus, will give the tour, and tell us of the history and mission of The Land Institute. Please contact Karen Hummel if you plan to come. Ken would like to know how to plan appropriately for crowd size. Join us, all are welcome! It will be enjoyable and informative!

Contact: Karen Hummel 785-341-0143

More Info: Land Institute

Sponsor: KNPS Manhattan Region

Sabetha Lake Wildflower Tour • Nemaha County

Saturday, Apr 28th, 2012 @ 1pm

Sabetha Lake • 192nd Road • Sabetha, KS • Map

Sabetha City Lake is located 6 miles west of Sabetha on 192nd Road. This is an opportunity to explore a northern area of Kansas. Follow a KNPS guide and tour the lake grounds and discover wildflowers, forbs, grasses, sedges, trees, shrubs, and more! Some rare plants we hope to see are Limber honeysuckle and Virginia clematis.

Wear sturdy shoes and long sleeves. Bring insect repellent, water and a snack if you choose.

Meet at the Casey's General Store on Old Highway 75 (Acorn Road), one block south of Main Street in Sabetha at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, and carpool to the Sabetha Lake west of town.

Contact: Nadine Champlin 785-284-2627

Sponsor: KNPS, Grimm's Gardens & Prairie Place Designs

Event Report

20 people attended the event.

Mary Jo notified the six regional newspapers using a poster designed by Nadine. Sponsors included Nadine’s company, Prairie Place Designs LLC, as well as Grimm’s Gardens (Hiawatha) and KNPS. The enthusiastic Mr. Hansen led both walks, and as he reported, about 20 people showed up. The weather was perfect, we visited three areas of the lake, and afterward a gentleman from Sabetha offered to take anyone interested to a nearby pristine prairie remnant. It was very like the extraordinary Leavenworth AWW prairies! An attendee from Horton in Atchison County telephoned today saying he is trying to get permission for a walk on land in Brown County. Other future plans include a wildflower walk at Atchison State Fishing Lake.

Spring Flora Kansas: Great Plains Plant Bazaar • Harvey County

Thursday, Apr 26th, 2012 to Monday, Apr 30th, 2012 @ 7pm

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

Kansas' largest native plant sale offering many species of wildflowers and grasses many of which are rare in cultivation. A large selection of adaptable perennials is also available. Saturday has a full day of presenters and tours. See schedule.

Thursday, April 26, 4 – 7 PM-*Members Only*
Friday, April 27, 8 AM – 7 PM- Public Sale
Saturday, April 28, 8 AM – 2 PM-Public Sale
Sunday, April 29, Noon – 4 PM-Public Sale
Monday, April 30, 8 AM – 6 PM-Public Sale

Contact: Scott Vogt (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Wichita Region Nature Walk • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Apr 24th, 2012 @ 6:30pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

Rescheduled from April 14. Join KNPS members in touring the trails of the GPNC through the prairie, woodland and wetlands areas. This is a good opportunity to meet other members in the Wichita area. Meet on the bridge in front of the Nature Center where trails begin. For more information contact Krista. The public is welcome to join as well.

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316-258-6341

Salina Practical Backyard Tour • Saline County

Sunday, Apr 22nd, 2012 @ 1-5pm

In and around Salina • Salina, KS • Map

Find out how your backyard can entertain & sustain you, and maybe save a little money too. These practical backyards will give you lots of ideas to take home. Visit one or all of the stops on the Practical Backyard Tour and meet other folks in Salina and the surrounding area who want to work in partnership with their backyards! Some of the yards feature the use of native plants. See Tour Site Brochure link for details. No charge to participate.

Contact: Noni Strand 785-822-7827

More Info: Tour Sites Brochure

Sponsor: The Resilience Group of Salina C.A.R.E. Partnership

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale #1 • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 21st, 2012 @ 8am-1pm

City Market • 5th & Walnut • Kansas City, MO • Map

The Missouri Prairie Foundation's annual native plant sale will be held the last two Saturdays in April: April 21 and April 28 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the City Market, 5th and Walnut, Kansas City, MO. A large variety of native Missouri wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-779-6708

Topeka Green Fair • Shawnee County

Saturday, Apr 21st, 2012 @ 3-5pm

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library • 1515 SW 10th Avenue • Topeka, KS • Map

The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library is hosting the 5th Annual Green Fair – It’s So Easy Being Green on Saturday, April 21, 2012. We anticipate this event to be popular and well-attended by individuals and families. The fair will be from 2:00—5:00 pm and will be located in our auditorium. KNPS will have a booth at the fair. Try your wildflower identification skills at our booth. There also will be native plants and seeds for sale at the event.

Contact: Mickey

Snyder Prairie Workday: Burn Cleanup • Jackson County

Saturday, Apr 21st, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for April includes cleaning up debris after the spring burns.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Salina Green Fair • Saline County

Saturday, Apr 21st, 2012 @ 10am-2pm

Lakewood Park • Salina, KS • Map

Come to Lakewood Park (south side) and see how others in our community are making positive impacts to the environment. Learn about going green from Salina area organizations, businesses, schools, and restaurants. Get ideas for making simple changes to improve our quality of life and become more sustainable as a community. Often these changes save us money. No charge to participate. Kid’s activities. Drawings for prizes. Free give-a-ways. Free disposal for mercury thermometers and old thermostats. Demonstrations (rain barrel making, worm composting).
Lakewood Park is an urban wildlife sanctuary and contains a re-established prairie.

Contact: Barbara Johnson 785-452-9456 (Salina)

Sponsor: Salina C.A.R.E Partnership

Master Gardener Wildflower Tour • Johnson County

Friday, Apr 20th, 2012 @ 1pm-3pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

Lynda Ochs and Ken O'Dell will lead the Douglas County Master Gardeners on a tour of the woodlands at the Overland Park Arboretum. A large wooded area is ripe with millions of spring woodland plants. Meet at the Visitors Center and we will leave at 1pm sharp. There will have FREE Wildflower booklets and KNPS brochures for those attending everyone. KNPS members are also welcome to attend.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Screening of Green Fire: Aldo Leopold and a Land Ethic for Our Time • Wyandotte County

Friday, Apr 20th, 2012 @ 6:30pm

Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center • 4501 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society, Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center, and West Wyandotte Public Library are pleased to present the movie “Green Fire,” a movie about legendary conservationist Aldo Leopold. Friday, April 20, 2012 at the library, located at 4051 West Drive in Wyandotte County Lake Park in Kansas City, KS. Aldo Leopold and his writings are as important today as they were when he penned them many decades ago. Leopold advocated a conservation philosophy known as the land ethic, a belief that natural resources are shared by all forms of life, not just for human consumption and exploitation. Excerpts from Leopold’s book “A Sand County Almanac” will be read prior to the movie; from 6:30 to 6:50 p.m. Refreshments will be available. Seating is limited so please call the library at 913.299.2384 to reserve a seat for this special showing.

Contact: Craig Hensley 913.299.2384

Sponsor: Kansas City Kansas Public Library

Ozark Wildflower Outing • Missouri

Friday, Apr 20th, 2012 to Saturday, Apr 21st, 2012 @ tba

TBA • Eminence, MO • Map

THIS EVENT IS FULL. NO MORE RESERVATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED. This is an opportunity to see some very special plants. In April the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers. Bloodroot, yellow trout lily, blue hepatica, white toothwort, yellow bellwort, dutchman's breeches, Jack in the pulpit, and trilliums are common, but many others that we might find are more secretive and rare. Be prepared for some spectacular scenery.
The regular local outing to area glades is scheduled on April 21, but a specially scheduled walk lead by a Missouri Conservation Biologist will be on April 20. We will walk a mile or more, sometimes off trail on rough terrain. Travel and lodging are on your own.

Come join us! RSVP Iralee if you would like to attend. For more information and lodging suggestions contact Iralee Barnard.

Contact: Iralee Barnard 785-949-2857

Sponsor: Missouri Department of Conservation

Changing Landscapes and Grassland Birds in Kansas • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Apr 17th, 2012 @ 7:30pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th St North • Wichita, KS • Map

Kansas is one of the best places to find spectacular landscapes and birds.
Dr. Brett Sandercock , Professor of Biology at KSU, will take us on a tour of these landscapes and share his discoveries about the birds that live there. Join us for an interesting and informative program with Dr Brett Sandercock.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

Overland Park Arboretum Wildflower Tour • Johnson County

Sunday, Apr 15th, 2012 @ 1pm-3pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

Lynda Ochs and Ken O'Dell will lead the Kansas City Region of The Kansas Native Plant Society on a tour of the woodlands at the Overland Park Arboretum. A large wooded area is ripe with millions of spring woodland plants. Meet at the Visitors Center and we will leave at 1pm sharp. Both dirt and mulched path ways, some hills to climb. Plants we will see include Yellow Buckeye, Wild Ginger, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Pawpaws, Bittersweet vines, Wild Geraniums, Bluebells, Mayapples, Jacob's Ladder, Solomon Seal, False Solomon Seal, Elderberry, Bloodroot, several varieties of wild violets in yellow, blue and purple.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Old Military Trail Wildflower Walk • Jefferson County

Saturday, Apr 14th, 2012 @ 1pm

Casey's General Store • 150 Main Street • Ozawkie, KS • Map

Meet at the Casey's General Store in Ozawkie at 1pm. From there, we will carpool to the trail head of the Old Military Trail. The trail is rich with spring woodland wildflowers. Some flowers we hope to see are Dutchman's breeches and trout lilies. Depending on interest, there may be another walk in May to see the second wave of wildflowers. Contact Fred & Nancy if you plan to attend. This is the first Lake Perry outing of the Atchison Region of the KNPS.

Contact: Nancy Coombs 785.872.3463

Event Report

14 people attended the event.

For a few hours of fun with no more cost than showing up, consider a wildflower walk. More than a dozen people turned out for the Atchison Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society's Woodland Wildflower Walk around the Late Perry Old Military Trail site. They came from Kansas City, Lawrence, Perry, Valley Falls, Oskaloosa, Topeka, Soldier, Sabetha, and Holton to view and identify some of the vegetative species unique to the woods east of Lake Perry. Trout lilies and dutchman's breeches had finished flowering, since warm weather arrived early, but the spring flower parade continued. Two striking species, May apples and jack-in-the-pulpit, were blooming on the woodland floor. Some of the group offered their broad expertise in naming small plants, shrubs, and trees. Others appreciated the beauty of the woods and the diversity of species, took photos, enjoyed the convivial company, or just welcomed a hike in the Little Slough Creek Valley. One member generously offered homemade peanut butter cookies at the end of the gathering.

Spring Board Meeting (CANCELLED) • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Apr 14th, 2012 @ 1-3pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

KNPS members are welcome to attend the board meeting. There is a Wichita members region gathering after the board meeting. See events calendar for details.

Contact: KNPS

Gardening with Flying Flowers • Leavenworth County

Wednesday, Apr 11th, 2012 @ 10:30am-12noon

Riverfront Community Center • 123 S. Esplanade St. • Leavenworth, KS • Map

30 species of large, tropical-looking butterflies call Eastern Kansas “home”. Unfortunately, many gardeners only see the occasional migrating Monarch. This presentation reviews butterfly biology and the basics of butterfly gardening. Spectacular photographs introduce many of the amazing butterflies (and their equally charismatic caterpillars) that gardeners can attract to their yards. But flowers are not the critical element—you already have a beautiful flower garden. You must learn to love and plant for the caterpillars, thereby choosing which species of butterflies embellish your garden. Butterfly gardening exemplifies the field of dreams: “plant it and they will come”!

Lenora Larson, is a MICO Master Gardener who maintains a NABA-certified butterfly garden in rural Paola, KS. She also writes the Caterpillar Food Plant section for every issue of Butterfly Gardener magazine. Indeed, ONLY native plants are allowed for garden certification by NABA (the North American Butterfly Association).

Contact: Lenora Larson 913-284-3360

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Apr 10th, 2012 @ 7pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs.

We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications.

Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our April focus herbs are Oregano and Chickweed. In addition to our topic herbs, we will be talking about how to start herbs from seed, and you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.

Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.

There is a $2 charge to cover costs (this is a non-profit group; no charge for students).

Information & Monthly Newsletter:herbstudygroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

More Info: Tamara Fairbanks-Ishmael

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Early Spring Wildflowers of Wyandotte County Lake Park • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Apr 7th, 2012 @ 1-4pm

Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center • 4501 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Join us for a walk in the spring woodlands of Wyandotte County Lake Park as we search for and identify a variety of spring woodland wildflowers, from Dutchman’s breeches and spring beauties to bloodroot and violets. Naturalist and Educator Craig Hensley from Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library & Environmental Learning Center will lead the walk. Members of the Kansas Native Plant Society are welcome to attend. Please note that some of the hiking will be on narrow trails with inclines. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Participants should plan to meet at the Library at 4051 West Drive in the park (Kansas City, KS) and we’ll carpool from there.
To register for this walk, please contact Craig Hensley at Schlagle Library, 913.299.2384 or by email at chensley@kckpl.org. This is the first of two spring walks.

Contact: Craig Hensley 913.299.2384

More Info: Woodland Wildflowers of Wyandotte County Lake Park

Sponsor: Kansas City Kansas Public Library

Cedar Crest Woodland Wildflower Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Apr 5th, 2012 @ 6pm

Cedar Crest • 1 SW Cedar Crest Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Explore the woods at MacLennan Park (Cedar Crest). These oak-hickory woods have an abundance of native woodland wildflowers. We will hike on the Kansas Trails Council’s newly built trails at MacLennan Park and scout for wildflowers. The first wildflowers of the season will be blooming: fawn lily (both the pink and the white species) and Dutchman's breeches. Meet at the parking lot on the west side of the governor mansion. Directions: From I-70, take the Fairlawn exit, go north to Cedar Crest and take a left, follow road to parking lot.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Event Report

6 people attended the event.

Topeka Audubon Society Sanctuary Appreciation Day • Jefferson County

Saturday, Mar 31st, 2012 @ 10am-3pm

Topeka Audubon Society Bird Sanctuary • Jefferson, KS • Map

The Topeka Audubon Society is having a Sanctuary Appreciation Day on Saturday, March 31. Birding begins at 7:30am with participants meeting at Rees Fruit Farm, Hwy 4 and Hwy 24. Members of KNPS are invited to go birding, but if you would like to simply explore the Sanctuary at Lake Perry you are invited to meet there between 10 am and 3 pm and walk the trails on self-guided tours. We will also enjoy a picnic lunch. Some Auduboners will be performing trail maintenace and other work activities. The spring ephemeral wildflowers will be blooming in the woodlands of the Sanctuary. See link to Sanctuary for more a map.
From the town of Perry, drive north on Ferguson Road to 74th Street. Turn east on the gravel road and follow it south until you see a green sign noting the entrance to the TAS Sanctuary.

Contact: Carol Morgan 785-272-6766

More Info: Sanctuary

Sponsor: Topeka Audubon Society

Presentation: Plant Identification • Riley County

Tuesday, Mar 27th, 2012 @ 7pm

Manhattan Church of Christ • 2510 Dickens Avenue • Manhattan, KS • Map

The Manhattan Region is planning to have an “identification refresher” to prepare wildflower lovers for Spring's arrival. The primary focus for the evening will be getting to know common plant families better as a touch-stone tool for identification. Instead of a lecture, we will work through a variety of activities in small groups. Members who are more familiar with the families will serve as facilitators/mentors for those of us for whom this may be a new approach. Everyone should bring your plant guide books (Freeman, Haddock, Barnard, etc.). In addition, several helpful hand-outs will be provided. There will also be snacks.

We will meet at 7 pm at the “old auditorium” on the upper level of the Manhattan Church of Christ, 2510 Dickens Avenue. You will need to come in the outside door on the upper level that appears to be the main entrance.Guests and KNPS members from other regions are welcome to join us. (We are lots of fun to be with.) Nancy Goulden is planning the activities and coordinating the evening. You may contact her at nag@k-state.edu or Jerry Freeze, head of the Manhattan Region at jfreeze@wamego.net with questions or for more information.

Contact: Nancy Goulden

Workshop: Growing Wildflowers from Seed • Johnson County

Saturday, Mar 24th, 2012 @ 1pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

WORKSHOP IS FULL. Ken O’Dell will show you how he gathers, cleans and stores some of his wildflower seeds. Ken will provide seeds he gathered for you to use in this class. You will learn what kind of soil to use, how much to water the pots, and how much light the seedlings need during and after germination. You will plant different wildflower seeds with a label for each pot. You may then take the flat of pots home and watch your wildflowers grow! Each of you will get 15 to 18 pots. Ken O’Dell grows all of the native plants for the Friends of the Arboretum spring plant sale each year. He is a long-time volunteer at the Overland Park Arboretum and serves on the Board of the Kansas Native Plant Society. Class is limited to 12 people, so register early. We will take the first 12 that respond via email to Ken O'Dell and say they want the class. This is a free class to members of the Kansas Native Plant Society only. Contact Ken O’Dell to register.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Burrowing Owls in California • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Mar 20th, 2012 @ 7:30pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th St North • Wichita, KS • Map

"Burrowing Owls in California - An Abundant Endangered Species?" Jack Barclay, senior wildlife biologist for Albion Environmental, Inc. will share his study of Burrowing Owls. The colony at Mineta San Jose International Airport in San Jose, California, has been studied since 1990. Management techniques such as artificial burrows were used to reduce the occurrence of owls along runways. Learn about the interesting techniques an study methods used as well as the results of the study.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

More Info: Wichita Audubon Calendar

Sponsor: Wichita Audubon Society

Presentation: Pollinator Habitat • Brown County

Saturday, Mar 17th, 2012 @ 10am

Hiawatha Lodge • 101 Lodge Road • Hiawatha, KS • Map

Holly Wilkens, Nemaha Wildlife Biologist & NE Kansas Pheasant's Forever Representative will speak on "Pollinator Habitat". Come listen and learn how we can re-populate the quail & pheasants in this area. This event is sponsored by Grimm's Gardens & Prairie Place Designs.

Contact: Nadine Champlin 785-284-2627

More Info: Pheasants Forever

Sponsor: Prairie Place Designs

Snyder Prairie Workday: Spring Burn • Jackson County

Saturday, Mar 17th, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for March includes the initial spring prescribed burn of the prairies. Other prescribed burns will take place in March and April.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Mar 13th, 2012 @ 7pm

Unitarian Fellowship • 1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs.

We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications.

Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our March focus herbs are Rosemary and Chickweed. In addition to our topic herbs, we will be talking about how to start herbs from seed, and you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.

Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome.

There is a $2 charge to cover costs (this is a non-profit group; no charge for students).

Information & Monthly Newsletter:herbstudygroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Feel the Love: Pollinators and Flowering Plants • Johnson County

Saturday, Mar 10th, 2012 @ 10am

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the KNPS invites you to a special presentation. Betsy Betros will speak and give a presentation “Feel the Love: Pollinators and Flowering Plants” Betsy has had a life-long love of nature, with bugs in particular which led her to a degree in entomology at Colorado State University. Her interest in butterflies led to writing the first book to provide an in-depth guide to butterflies of the Kansas City region: “A Photographic Field Guide to the Butterflies in the Kansas City Region”
Professionally, Betsy has been with the Johnson County’s Environmental Department for over 30 years and is currently the Pollution Control Director. Betsy's book will be available at the meeting. Members and visitors are welcome.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Plant and Nature Photography Workshop • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Mar 10th, 2012 @ 1-4pm

Sedgwick County Extension Education Center • 7001 West 21st Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

Join professional photographer and native plant lover Jolene Grabill for an afternoon workshop and learn to improve your native plant and nature photography skills in 2012. Almost everyone has a fully automatic camera – what are the possibilities when we switch out of automatic mode? How can images be edited once they are downloaded to your computer? Strategies to enhance your images both as you capture them and once they are in the camera will be shared. Bring your camera, laptop, and card readers. We will plan to take outdoor photos during the workshop with your new knowledge and will then edit them. Class size will be limited to 20 - please make your reservation and payment by March 3. Contact Krista Dahlinger with any questions. Use the Workshop Registration link to pay your registration fee. See Jolene's work at jolenegrabill.zenfolio.com and jolenegrabill.photoshelter.com.

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316-258-6341

More Info: Workshop Registration

Sponsor: Sedgwick County Extension Office

Burnett's Mound - Spring Skyline Park Workday • Shawnee County

Saturday, Mar 10th, 2012 @ 9am-12pm

Skyline Park • Topeka, KS • Map

We are continuing our project to remove trees and restore the native prairie on Burnett's Mound. The hilltop has been exposed and we are working our way down with chainsaws, loppers, and handsaws. We have work for everyone, from kids to adults. Bring gloves and any tools that you have and we will provide safety glasses, drinks and lunch for all. We will emphasize safety and will have a great time, while exposing Topeka's most prominent landmark. All are welcome and call if you have questions.

Contact: Brad Loveless 785.633.2118

Sponsor: Westar Energy

Presentation: Kansas Wildflowers (CANCELLED) • Shawnee County

Tuesday, Mar 6th, 2012 @ 7-8pm

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library • 1515 SW 10th Avenue • Topeka, KS • Map

Cancelled, but rescheduled to Aug 2, 2012. Learn the fundamentals of wildflower identification. There are nearly 2100 species of wild flowering plants growing in Kansas. Learn how to identify our many wildflowers and other plants by learning varius characteristics of different species. A slideshsow presentation will cover our most primitive plants (mosses and ferns) to our most evolved (asters and orchids). Information on local wildflower walks will also be covered. Presented by Jeff Hansen, Kansas Native Plant Society. Call Kathy at 580-4540 for more information. Meet in the Anton Room (202).

Contact: Jeff Hansen

Flora and Flautas • Shawnee County

Sunday, Mar 4th, 2012 @ 6pm

El Centinela Mexican Restaurant • 2121 S.W. Belle Ave • Topeka, KS • Map

Flora and Flautas is a time to socialize, eat Mexican food, and talk about plants. Come get to know fellow KNPS members of the Topeka Membership Region (Osage, Douglas, Shawnee and Franklin counties). This is a social outing to get to know each other. Members from other regions are welcome to come as well. Please RSVP Mickey by Saturday March 3rd if you are attending. El Centinela has excellent authentic Mexican food.

Contact: Mickey D.

Event Report

4 people attended the event.

Presentation: Managing your Prairie Remnant • Brown County

Saturday, Mar 3rd, 2012 @ 10am

Hiawatha Lodge • 101 Lodge Road • Hiawatha, KS • Map

Frank Norman, President & Senior Ecologist for Norman Ecological Consulting, Lawrence, Kansas, will speak on "Managing your Prairie Remnant". This event is sponsored by Grimm's Gardens & Prairie Place Designs.

Contact: Nadine Champlin 785-284-2627

More Info: Norman Ecological Consulting

Sponsor: Prairie Place Designs

Grassland Birds of the Kansas Flint Hills by Dr. William Jensen • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Feb 21st, 2012 @ 7:30pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th St North • Wichita, KS • Map

The Flint Hills, the largest tallgrass prairie remaining in North America, provides abundant habitat for many grassland wildlife species.
Birds are perhaps the most prominent of these animals. One can find wintering, migratory, and spring-to-summer breeding birds in the Flint Hills grassland. These species range from the iconic, such as the greater prairie-chicken, to the inconspicuous, such as the Ammodramus sparrows. Dr. Jensen will present an array of avifauna characteristic of the Flint Hills and some conservation concerns involving grassland birds in the region.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

Workshop: Papermaking from Plant Fiber • Saline County

Saturday, Feb 18th, 2012 @ 1-5pm

Salina Public Library Community Learning Center • 308 West Elm Street • Salina, KS • Map

Learn the art of making paper from plant fibers in this hands-on class. You will learn about the different types of plant fiber, the process of extracting the fiber from the plant and the process of forming sheets of paper from the resulting fiber. Working in teams of two, each team will process a different plant fiber into paper. Everyone will make paper from each type of fiber. You will also laminate sheets, embed pressed flowers/leaves, emboss sheets and combine fibers. Paper products you will make include bookmarks, note cards, photo mattes and shaped paper. All materials and equipment is supplied. The paper takes two days to dry. Once it is dried it will be sent to your home. Follow the Registration Link to register for this class. The Community Learning Center is located across the street from the library at 308 W. Elm. Enter parking lot from 9th street entrance.

Contact: Lisa Newman 785-825-4624

More Info: Registration

Sponsor: Salina Public Library

Snyder Prairie Workday: Tree/Brush Cutting • Jackson County

Saturday, Feb 18th, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for February includes cutting and piling trees and shrubs using chainsaws and loppers.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Topeka Garden Show • Shawnee County

Friday, Feb 17th, 2012 to Sunday, Feb 19th, 2012 @ 10am-8pm

Kansas Expocentre • 1 Expocentre Drive • Topeka, KS • Map

Visit the KNPS booth at the garden show. There will be a plant identification contest and we will have free copies of the "A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers & Grasses." Meet fellow members at the booth. Hours: Friday 10am-8pm; Saturday 10am-8pm; Sunday 11am-5pm.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Feb 14th, 2012 @ 6:30pm

Unitarian Fellowship • 1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs. We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications. Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our February focus herbs are Chocolate (Cacao) and Cinnamon. In addition to our topic herbs, we will be explore herbal tea combinations and the Herbs of Valentine's Day, and you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.

Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome. There is a $2 charge to cover costs (this is a non-profit group; no charge for students).

Information & Monthly Newsletter:herbstudygroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Kaw Valley Seeds Project Fair • Douglas County

Saturday, Feb 11th, 2012 @ 10am

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Building 21 • 2110 Harper St. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The 2012 3rd Annual fair will include a seed exchange, exhibits, a children’s activity center and more than 50 exhibitors offering educational information, gardening products and local farm products. Raffles for various gardening-related prizes will be held throughout the day. Visitors are encouraged to bring open-pollinated (non-hybrid) seed—along with information on its origin—to the KAW VALLEY SEEDS PROJECT table to help build the Seed Reserve. Food from the Lawrence restaurant Local Burger will be available.

Last year’s fair drew more than 1,200 people, and a similar crowd is expected this year. The event is co-sponsored by the Kansas Area Watershed Council and the Douglas County Extension Master Gardeners.

The Kaw Valley Seeds Project is a nonprofit whose mission is to create a Local Living Seed Reserve by fostering a network of people committed to growing and eating, sharing and bartering, and buying and selling primary seed varieties of the Kansas River valley. An additional goal is to educate the general public about the pleasures of growing their own food by teaching them how to save, store and plant seeds from their own gardens, and where to obtain organic or local seed lines.

Contact: Daniel Bentley 785-842-4418

More Info: http://www.facebook.com/kawvalleyseeds

Sponsor: Kansas Area Watershed Council

Workshop: Seed Collection and Preparation • Riley County

Tuesday, Feb 7th, 2012 @ 7pm

Manhattan Church of Christ • 2510 Dickens Avenue • Manhattan, KS • Map

Joc Baker, KNPS Board member, former science teacher, and “professional” seed collector will guide the group through the process. Sample dried-seed-heads of common Flint Hill native plants will be available, and at the end of the session, participants may take home the seeds they have worked with. It is recommended that, if possible, attendees bring a hand lens or magnifying glass to use for separating very small seeds from insects and other particles.
The meeting will be in the lower level of the Manhattan Church of Christ, located at 2510 Dickens Avenue (a few blocks south and west of K-State basketball and football facilities). Snacks will be available. All members in the counties of the Manhattan Region, friends and guests, and anyone interested in learning more about native plants are welcome to join us.
For more information contact Nancy.

Contact: Nancy Goulden 785-776-2115

Presentation: Kansas WIldflowers • Shawnee County

Monday, Feb 6th, 2012 @ 7-8pm

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library • 1515 SW 10th Street • Topeka, KS • Map

Learn the fundamentals of wildflower identification. There are nearly 2100 species of wild flowering plants growing in Kansas. Learn how to identify our many wildflowers and other plants by learning varius characteristics of different species. A slideshsow presentation will cover our most primitive plants (mosses and ferns) to our most evolved (asters and orchids). Information on local wildflower walks will also be covered. Presented by Jeff Hansen, Kansas Native Plant Society. Meet in the Anton Room 202. Contact Kathy for more information.

Contact: Kathy Jennings 785-580-4540

KNPS Winter Board Meeting • Lyon County

Saturday, Feb 4th, 2012 @ 12-3pm

Emporia State University • 1200 Commercial Street • Emporia, KS • Map

The Board of Directors meet at Emporia State University in Science Hall, Room 159. Science Hall is on Merchant Street (K-99). Members are welcome to attend the board meeting. Science Hall contains the Schmidt Museum of Natural History. It contains a comprehensive collection of approximately 600 taxidermy mounts of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish from Kansas. Backup date is February 11 in case of inclement weather.

Contact: KNPS 785-806-6917

More Info: Schmidt Museum of Natural History

Sponsor: Emporia State University

Roadside Blooms at the Center Gallery in Wichita • Sedgwick County

Friday, Jan 27th, 2012 to Friday, Feb 10th, 2012 @ 7-10pm

111 South Ellis • Wichita, KS • Map

Sharon Gottula's Roadside Blooms images will be part of a Juried group exhibition at the Center Gallery of the Midwest Center for Photography from Jan. 27th -Feb. 10th. Opening reception from 7-10pm come and meet Sharon and see 5 from her series of native and roadside plants all photographed on location in Kansas and Missouri. You can see preview of her images on her website as well as more information about the project.

Contact: Sharon Gottula 816-786-8165

More Info: Sharon Gottula

Sponsor: Center Gallery

Presentation: KU Medicinal Plant Program • Douglas County

Monday, Jan 23rd, 2012 @ 7:30pm

Trinity Lutheran Church • 1245 New Hampshire Street • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Jayhawk Audubon Society and the Grassland Heritage Foundation are co-sponsoring a presentation by Dr. Kelly Kindscher, Senior Scientist with the KS Biological Survey and Professor at KU in the Environmental Studies Program. Known best to most people simply as "Kelly," he will share information about his current work with The Native Medicinal Plant Research Program at KU. Kelly is a passionate advocate for native plants, native landscapes and wild places. He is the author of two books: Edible Wild Plants of the Prairie (1987) and Medicinal Wild Plants of the Prairie (1992). We will also have a "Buy Your Own" dinner with Kelly at 5:00 p.m. at Free State Brewery, with the program beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Trinity Lutheran Church, just east of the intersection of 13th & Massachusetts in Lawrence. Please RSVP to Kim Bellemere at 785-840-8104 or grasslandheritage@gmail.com by Jan. 20 if you are planning on attending the dinner with Kelly.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 7856-840-8104

More Info: Jayhawk Audubon Society

Sponsor: Grassland Heritage Foundation

Kaw Valley Eagles Day • Douglas County

Saturday, Jan 21st, 2012 @ 10am-4pm

Free State High School • Lawrence, KS • Map

Celebrate the return of the eagles and learn about the environment. Programs on area Bald eagles and other wildlife. Exhibitors will offer educational resources related to nature.

Contact: E Shaw (785) 843-7665

More Info: Kaw Valley Eagles Day

Sponsor: Jayhawk Audubon Society

Snyder Prairie Workday • Jackson County

Saturday, Jan 21st, 2012 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF’s volunteer prairie management group, Groundhogs, meets at Snyder Prairie on the 3rd Saturday of each month of the year, except December. Snyder Prairie is a 140-acre tract of land composed of prairie and woods east of Mayetta, Kansas. Contact Frank to help. Work for January includes removing interior barbed wire fences.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Jan 10th, 2012 @ 6:30pm

Unitarian Fellowship • 1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group meets monthly to learn about herbs. We explore all aspects of an herb: growing & harvesting, historical lore, culinary virtues, medicinal merits, and aromatherapy, household, and cosmetic applications. Our gatherings are fun and educational, and jam-packed with useful information, including relevant demonstrations.

Our January focus herb is Calendula, and our wild herb is Black Walnut. In addition to our topic herbs, we will be demonstrating and discussing how to use herbs in salves, ointments, and poultices. A bonus segment will delve into historical herbals, and you never know what you'll learn during our popular Share, Show, and Tell segment.

Everyone with an interest in herbs is welcome. There is a $2 charge to cover costs (this is a non-profit group; no charge for students).

Information:herbstudygroup@gmail.com
Facebook:Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

More Info: January Newsletter

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Lichen Glade Work Day • Missouri

Saturday, Dec 10th, 2011 @ 10am

Lichen Glade Natural Area • Osceola, MO • Map

December 17 is bad-weather make-up day. Join Missouri Master Naturalists to help restore this Nature Conservancy- owned glade at 9am. Volunteers with an interest in glade restoration and a good pair of gloves are needed to cut oak sprouts on this 34-acre Missouri Natural Area, 6 miles west of Osceola on Hwy. B in St. Clair County. Provided: herbicide, loppers, water. A warm, hearty meal will be served to volunteers. RSVP to Larry Rizzo if you plan to attend.

Contact: Larry Rizzo

Sponsor: Missouri Master Naturalist

Spread prairie seed at Warren Nature Area • Shawnee County

Sunday, Dec 4th, 2011 @ 11am-12pm

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Spread the seed we collected at Grant bradbury prairie in the Warren Nature Area. The Warren Nature Area grasslands are being restored to prairie. Wear leather gloves as the seed will stick to cloth gloves. After the seed is scattered, we will tour the progress of the restoration. Meet at the east end of the Felker parking lot near the Bocci Ball courts. Felker Park is located at 25th and Gage Blvd. Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Snyder Prairie Workday • Jackson County

Saturday, Nov 19th, 2011 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Stilwell Prairie Work Day • Missouri

Saturday, Nov 19th, 2011 @ 10am

Stillwell Prairie • Richards, MO • Map

Hearty volunteers with chainsaws and loppers are needed to combat trees and brush at MPF's Stilwell Prairie in Vernon County from 10am until as long as volunteers wish to work. MPF's Prairie Operations Manager Richard Datema will direct volunteers to areas on the prairie needing clearing; most of the work will involve cutting 10-inch or smaller diameter trees with chainsaws, although some lopper work will be needed too. Volunteers will need to provide their own equipment and safety gear. MPF will provide herbicide for treating cut stumps. Those wishing to camp on-site Friday and/or Saturday night are welcome to do so. Directions: One mile east of Richards on Route H, then one mile north on gravel road. RSVP to MPF if you plan to attend.

Contact: MPF (888) 843-6739

The History and Future of the Baker Wetlands by Roger Boyd • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Nov 15th, 2011 @ 7:30 pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

Roger will discuss how the South Lawrence Traffic-way has affected the on-going restoration of the Baker Wetlands near Lawrence Kansas.

Contact: Carol Cumberland 316-685-4867

More Info: Wichita Audubon Society Calendar

Sponsor: Wichita Audubon Society

Fall Workday: Clear Bush Honeysuckle along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Sunday, Nov 13th, 2011 @ 10am-noon

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Help clear bush honeysuckle from the woods along Shunga Creek. We are going to clear an area of the woods of the honeysuckle and other invasives to allow the native species to flourish. The natives are barely hanging on because of the honeysuckle. The area we will be working is adjacent to the bridge at Gage & Shunga Creek. Parking is at the Tennis Courts near 26th & Gage Blvd. Wear boots, leather gloves, long sleeves and pants. Bring a lopper or pruning saw. If you don't want to cut, you can pull seedlings. Pulling seedlings is easy and prevents reinvestation. The City of Topeka will be supplying herbicde to treat the cut stumps to ensure the honeysuckle doesn't regrow. Felker Park is a park in Topeka that is off Gage Blvd adjacent to Shunga Creek. Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Event Report

6 people attended the event.

Native Woodland Restoration & Wetland Maintenance • Douglas County

Sunday, Nov 13th, 2011 @ 1:00-4:00pm

Hidden Valley Camp • 3420 W. Bob Billings Pkwy • Lawrence , KS • Map

Annual Fall Workday at Hidden Valley Camp (raindate Nov. 20)

Hidden Valley consists of 40-acres of urban wilderness in the middle of Lawrence, serving as a camp for local Girl Scouts and other Douglas County youth. Our main focus for this workday will be native woods restoration: removing the invasive shrub honeysuckle. Tools and gloves are provided, but extra loppers, handsaws, and chainsaws appreciated. Jobs will include removal, treating stumps, and hauling to burn and chip sites. Other projects available for all ages and skills: wetland maintenance (removing cattails), wood cutting/splitting for fire wood, stocking woodpiles, mulching, cleaning fire rings, planting native grasses, and more. Any amount of time appreciated. Individuals or groups welcome.
Warming fires and refreshments provided. Wear durable clothing and totally enclosed shoes. Contact Durand for detailed information.

Contact: Durand Reiber 7858654657

Sponsor: Friends of Hidden Valley, inc.

Wichita Native Plant Seed Exchange • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Nov 12th, 2011 @ 1-3pm

Sedgwick County Extension Education Center • 7001 West 21st Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

Kansas Native Plant Society and the Kansas Master Naturalists are working together! You are invited to meet and mingle with others interested in the exchange of native plant seeds and growing native plants. Gather up your extras and bring them to the Sedgwick County Extension center in Wichita on Saturday Nov. 12th. If you have no seeds to exchange please come anyway - there should be plenty of seeds available to interested gardeners.

Basic guidelines:
- Bring paper bags (brown paper lunch bags) are perfect to store seeds. Plastic baggies cause seeds to mold.
- Please be able to identify your plant seeds - we want to avoid distributing invasives and unknowns.
- Bring a plant ID book if you have one to share photos with people who are not familiar with your plants.

Where: Bison Room (We will post signs)

Please come out and meet your fellow native plant enthusiasts! Contact Krista with questions.

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316-258-6341

Sponsor: Sedgwick County Master Gardeners

The KLT Mushroom Walk • Douglas County

Saturday, Nov 12th, 2011 @ 10am-1pm

Earles Easement • Baldwin City, KS • Map

Led by expert field mycologist and KLT member Sherry Kay, this educational and pleasant foray will take place on the Earles Easement. This protected land, conserved in perpetuity by KLT,contains one of the best remaining examples of original eastern deciduous oak-hickory forest in Kansas, and is home to a variety of ecosystems friendly to mushrooms. Admission for KLT members is free. The fee for non-members is $25. Non-members are welcome to join KLT during registration, in which case the admission fee to the mushroom walk will be waived. See KLT Events link for directions.

Contact: Ginny Moore 785-749-3297

More Info: KLT Events

Sponsor: Kansas Land Trust

Atchison Region Planning Session • Jefferson County

Saturday, Nov 12th, 2011 @ 10am

408 Sycamore Street • Valley Falls, KS • Map

All people interested in wildflower and timber walks in our area are invited to a planning session.

The goal is to get as many local people as possible to share ideas about wildflower events in our six-counties (Jackson, Jefferson, Atchison, Nemaha, Brown, and Doniphan) and to identify future native plant sites in every county of the KNPS Atchison Region by people living in those counties.

We are meeting at Mac's Grill & Pizza in Valley Falls. The owner has reserved a room for the meeting with no obligation to make a purchase. Please indicate that you are there for the KNPS/AR meeting.

KNPS has organized the 105 counties of Kansas into smaller regional groups to facilitate more local wildflower events. Our six-county Atchison Region is unique for its rich glacial deposits which nurture a variety of native tallgrass prairie plants.

Please come prepared with ideas and suggestions for wildflower and timber walks (park, lake, grassland, woods, etc.) in your area, as well as ideas of places to meet or eat in your county and names of people or organizations who may be willing to make a presentation. This will be a public meeting, open to all with interest in wildflowers. A FREE pocket guide to the Wildflowers of the Flint Hills will be given to all those attending!

Contact: Nancy Coombs 785-872-3463

Sponsor: Mac's Grill & Pizza

Event Report

13 people attended the event.

Interested parties met and discussed planning events in the region.

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Nov 8th, 2011 @ 6:30pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

$2 fee to cover costs (group is non-profit; no charge for students)

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group is an informal monthly meeting to study herbs. We study the many aspects of each herb: culinary uses, aromatherapy applications, medicinal merits, historical lore, growing and crafting.

This group is open to anyone wanting to learn more about herbs grown in the garden and in the wild.

Our herbs for November are Mistletoe, Ginger, and the Herbs of Christmas. There will also be lots of Herbal Gift Ideas. The evening will be interactive and jam-packed with herb information and demonstrations. You won't want to miss!

To receive newsletter: HerbStudyGroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Wild Area Hike • Missouri

Saturday, Oct 22nd, 2011 @ 9am

Roaring River State Park • 12716 Farm Road 2239 • Cassville, MO • Map

Go on a four-mile hike through Roaring River Hills Wild Area during the height of fall color. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water and a sack lunch or snack. The hike will also tour a portion of Roaring River Cove Hardwood Natural Area.

Contact: (417) 847-3742

Sponsor: Roaring River State Park

Snyder Prairie Workday • Jackson County

Saturday, Oct 22nd, 2011 @ 9:30am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Program: Native Plants that birds need for food & shelter • Johnson County

Saturday, Oct 22nd, 2011 @ 10am

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society will have a presentation by Alan Branhagen on native plants that birds need for food and shelter.

Alan is Director of Horticulture at Powell Gardens and the Kauffman Memorial Garden in Kansas City. Alan was born and raised in Iowa and received his Master of Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University. He designed many projects at The Powell Gardens including the recently completed Heartland Harvest Garden. Alan designed, developed and managed 30 preserves including all natural areas and the Klehm Arboretum and Northern Illinois Botanic Garden before coming to Kansas City. Alan is the author of The Gardener’s Butterfly Book by the National Home Gardening Club. He is an all around plantsman and naturalist specializing in garden design, edible landscapes, native plants and restoration of native landscapes. and landscape designs for wildlife especially birds and butterflies.

This presentation will be at the Overland Park Arboretum, 8909 W. 179th. St. Overland Park Kansas on Saturday, October 22, at 10am. The Arboretum is located 1/2 mile west of Highway 69, on the south side of Overland Park.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Prairie Seed Collecting at Grant Bradbury • Shawnee County

Sunday, Oct 16th, 2011 @ 1-3pm

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed to help collect prairie wildflower and grass seed at Grant-Bradbury Prairie Park for a wildlife restoration area at Warren Nature Area. We will be working with the city to restore an old brome/fescue field to a diverse planting of native wildflowers and grasses. Volunteers should wear sturdy footwear and long pants. Bring a plastic pail or paper sack for collecting seeds. No experience is necessary. All ages can help. Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785-806-6917

Event Report

15 people attended the event.

Fall Wildflower Walk at the Prairie Center • Johnson County

Sunday, Oct 9th, 2011 @ 1pm

Prairie Center • 26325 W 135th St. • Olathe, KS • Map

Join the Grassland Heritage Foundation for a fall wildflower walk at The Prairie Center in Olathe. We'll see fall blooming flowers and learn about the unique aspects of the prairie ecosystem in the fall. The walk will be led by Ken O'Dell. Ken is a long time volunteer at the Overland Park Arboretum, a board member of the Kansas Native Plant Society, and The Kansas City Region leader for the Kansas Native Plant Society. He also grows the native plants and perennials for the Overland Park Arboretum plant sale. Craig Hensley and Glenn Fell will also be leading this walk. This will be a great opportunity to meet other members of the KNPS in the Kansas City area. When you arrive at the Prairie Center, park in the main lot off of Cedar Niles Rd. just south of 135th.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

Sponsor: The Grassland Heritage Foundation

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Oct 8th, 2011 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve on the second Saturday of each month, beginning June 11 at 8 am. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

KU Medicinal Garden Fall Tour • Douglas County

Saturday, Oct 1st, 2011 @ 10am

KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Garden • 1865 E. 1600 Road • Lawrence, KS • Map

The faculty, staff and students of the KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program will host this informal morning tour of the medicinal research garden. There will be new signage with information on medicinal uses of all the plants in the demonstration garden--more than 70 species. The garden is ten minutes from downtown Lawrence, half a mile north of Highway 40, adjacent to the Prairie Moon Waldorf School grounds. All ages are welcome. Gravel paths at the garden are wheelchair accessible. Stay as long as you wish; the garden is open every day, dawn to dusk. Ten minutes from downtown Lawrence. Directions (vehicular and bike routes): http://nativeplants.ku.edu/events.

Contact: Kirsten Bosnak 785-864-6267

Sponsor: KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program

Prairie Walk at the Warren Nature Area • Shawnee County

Saturday, Sep 24th, 2011 @ 8:30am

2540 SW Gage Blvd. • Topeka, KS • Map

Tom Hammer, GHF board member and City of Topeka Park Naturalist will lead a walk through the prairie at the Warren Nature Area in Topeka. The City of Topeka is currently working to restore the prairie and this will be a good opportunity to see the results of their work up close and learn more about the restoration process. Part of the tour will include a section that was sprayed and seeded with hand collected seed from Grant-Bradbury prairie park. Topeka Audubon Society & Kansas Native Plant Society volunteers have helped with various volunteer work in the park. Warren Nature Area is located at 25th and Gage (south of the V. A. Hospital and K.N.I.). Contact GHF at grasslandheritage@gmail.com for more information. Meet in the Felker parking lot.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

Sponsor: The Grassland Heritage Foundation

Open House at KRRN, an all-native plant nursery • Douglas County

Saturday, Sep 24th, 2011 @ 10am-3pm

Kaw River Restoration Nurseries • 1271 N 222 Rd • Baldwin City, KS • Map

Come see us for this free event and see what an all-native plant nursery looks like!

We are excited to be opening our doors to the public for our first event in our new location in Baldwin City! On Saturday, September 24th from 10am-3pm, we will be offering guided tour of our 40,000-square foot greenhouse. We will offer free information about local-genotype native plants, how to care for them, and how to landscape with them. Visitors will also be able to take advantage of some great end of season deals on trees, shrubs, and plants.

Contact us at krrn@appliedeco.com or 785-594-2245

We hope to see you there!
*To access N222 rd, turn south onto E1260 from US56 (the new frontage road for new highway 59)

Contact: Joanie Hart 816-289-2838

More Info: KRRN - follow us on Facebook

Sponsor: KRRN with Applied Ecological Services

Prairie Management at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Sep 17th, 2011 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

33rd Annual Wildflower Weekend • Douglas County

Friday, Sep 16th, 2011 to Sunday, Sep 18th, 2011 @ see schedule

Nichols Hall • 2291 Irving Hill Drive • Lawrence, KS • Map

Come enjoy native plants with us in northeast Kansas! The weekend is filled with outings, programs, a silent auction, photo contest, dinner, and socializing.

On Friday, we will tour the KU Field Station which contains the Rockefeller Prairie, Kaw Overlook, and Fitch Natural History Reservation.

On Saturday, we hold the membership meeting at Nichols Hall. We also will tour two private tallgrass prairies in Leavenworth County.

On Sunday, we are touring Prairie Park Nature Center, Baker Wetlands Restoration Site, and Coblentz prairie.

Please see the Itinerary for more information.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

More Info: Annual Wildflower Weekend Itinerary

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Sep 13th, 2011 @ 6:30pm

1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group is an enjoyable & informative monthly meeting where we learn about the aspects of each herb: culinary uses, aromatherapy applications, medicinal properties, historical lore, growing and crafting.

This group is open to anyone wanting to learn more about the herbs grown in the garden and in the wild.

There is a $2 fee to cover costs (group is non-profit).
We meet the 2nd Tuesday evening of each month at the Unitarian Fellowship at 6:30 p.m.
Send email to sign up for newsletter & updates: HerbStudyGroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Herbs Study Group

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Sep 10th, 2011 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve on the second Saturday of each month, beginning June 11 at 8 am. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: KNPS

Fall Tree I.D. Workshop • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Sep 10th, 2011 @ 2pm-4pm

Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library • 4501 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Join Lead Education Specialist Craig Hensley to learn how to identify the local native trees and other woody plants found in Wyandotte County. You'll learn the keys to accurate plant identification, learn to use a taxonomic key, and head out on the trail to identify them based on their leaves, fruit and bark. Be sure to dress for the outdoors.

Contact: Craig Hensley 913.299.2384

More Info: Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library

Sponsor: Kansas City, Kansas Public Library

Fall Flora Kansas: Great Plains Plant Bazaar • Harvey County

Thursday, Sep 8th, 2011 to Sunday, Sep 11th, 2011 @ 8am

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

This plant sale features hard-to-find native perennials plus classes and tours. Kansas Native Plant Society co-sponsors Dyck Arboretum events. Ask about member's only sale dates; 10% members discount on all days. Admission charge is by donation.

Contact: Scott Vogt (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Prairie Seed Collection • Chase County

Thursday, Sep 8th, 2011 @ 9am-noon

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

Help The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service with vital prairie restoration by collecting seeds at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The seeds collected will be used to restore prior cultivated areas on the preserve. The workdays are a great opportunity to learn more about the prairie plants and about the restoration work that is being done at the Preserve.
Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing, wear sturdy shoes and sun hat, bring drinking water and wear bug spray. Training will be provided. Please be aware that we will encounter warm and hot weather and we will be on areas of the preserve with no shade.
This year, several seed collecting workdays are being planned. Four of the workdays will be on Saturday with two workdays scheduled for Thursday. The dates are as follows: Saturday, June 4 ; Saturday, June 18 ; Thursday, July 7 ; Saturday, July 16 ; Saturday, Aug 6 ; Thursday, Sept 8.
If you would like to participate or have questions, please contact Ruth.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

Jackson Street Fall Wildflower Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Sep 8th, 2011 @ 6-7:30pm

SW 8th Ave & SW Jackson St • Topeka, KS • Map

Join Topeka Public Works employees and KNPS members for a walk along the Jackson Street bioretention cells. Created in 2003, these cells collect stormwater and filter the water through the use of native plantings. This project won the 2006 KNPS Rachel Snyder Landscape Award. Topics discussed will include the planning of the cells, landscaping of the area, water treatment and, of course, the native plantings. The asters, goldenrod, and grasses will be at their height of beauty in September. This walk coincides with Top City Thursday, so there will be other activities to participate in downtown throughout the evening. Meet at the NW corner of 8th & Jackson. Please RSVP Mickey by email if you plan to attend.

Contact: Mickey Delfelder

More Info: Topeka, Public Works, Water Pollution Control

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Fall Wildflower Tour at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • McPherson County

Saturday, Sep 3rd, 2011 @ 10am

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • Canton, KS • Map

Board the tram for a tour of the prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. There is also a self guided walking tour with flowers flagged. The Refuge is located 6 miles north of Canton, KS.

Contact: (620)-628-4455

Mid/Short-Grass Rangeland Management Class • Scott County

Tuesday, Aug 23rd, 2011 to Thursday, Aug 25th, 2011 @ 8am to 3pm

Camp Lakeside • 300 East Scott Lake Drive • Scott, KS • Map

The theme for 2011 is Looking Past the Fence - rangeland watersheds from top to bottom. The school is designed to meet the needs of ranchers, landowners, land managers, and anyone interested in understanding Kansas grasslands and how to balance economic viability and resource sustainability. Costs for the school is $300 per person and includes course materials, lodging, meals and other incidentals involved while at the schools.
Deadline for registration is July 22. Space is limited to 35 participants, so early registration is advised. KGLC offers every eligible rancher, college student, and agency personnel scholarship funds to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Scholarships range from $150 for ranchers and college students to $100 for agency staff. Registration and scholarship forms are available online at www.kglc.org, 2011 Range Schools.

KGLC has hosted this school in different settings since 2005, so there is a history of providing attendees with high quality education using a mix of ranchers, organization and agency staffs, and university specialists. They are able to create a real sense of connection with the grazing lands ranchers and others use to extract a living. A great emphasis has always been put on learning native grassland plants and then, to understand how to measure and monitor the seasonal grazing pressure on those plants to be able to predict healthy use and determine forage reserves, all to help the economic bottom line. Our instructors work one-on-one with attendees to answer questions and ensure that learning occurs and is retained.

Contact: Tim Christian 620-241-3636

Prairie Management at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Aug 20th, 2011 @ 9am

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Tuttle Creek Lake Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Saturday, Aug 20th, 2011 @ 1-3pm

Tuttle Creek Lake Visitor’s Center • 5020 Tuttle Creek Blvd • Manhattan, KS • Map

Plan to be a part of the final summer wildflower walk at Tuttle Creek Lake, led by KNPS guides. This is an opportunity to see and learn about the late summer flowers of the Flint Hills such as: boneset, tall thistle; curly cup gumweed, liatris (gayfeather); several different species of sunflowers and also of goldenrods and native asters. Each participant will receive a free copy of A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers and Grasses to use during the hike and then take home. So we will know how many to expect for the outing, please preregister with UFM Community Learning Center 785(539-8763) or info@tryufm.org. There is no registration fee.

Contact: Paul Weidhaas 785-539-8511

Sponsor: Tuttle Creek Lake

Wildflower Walk at the Prairie Center • Johnson County

Saturday, Aug 20th, 2011 @ 8:30 AM

The Prairie Center • 26235 West 135th Street • Olathe, KS • Map

Join Sue Holcomb to explore the tall grasses of late summer. Meet at The Prairie Center's new west side parking lot located along Santa Fe west of the limestone house but before you get to Moonlight Road (across from the church). Sue will show you what we've been working on at the GHF prairie, then we'll walk down into the Prairie Center proper. We should see willow-leaved sunflower, lots of other composites, and maybe the Leavenworth eryngo will be blooming.

Contact: Sue Holcomb 913-856-4784

More Info: The Prairie Center

Sponsor: Grassland Heritage Foundation

Tallgrass Rangeland Management Class • Chase County

Tuesday, Aug 16th, 2011 to Thursday, Aug 18th, 2011 @ 8am to 3pm

Camp Wood YMCA • 1101 Campwood Rd • Elmdale, KS • Map

The theme for 2011 is Looking Past the Fence - rangeland watersheds from top to bottom. The school is designed to meet the needs of ranchers, landowners, land managers, and anyone interested in understanding Kansas grasslands and how to balance economic viability and resource sustainability. Costs for the school is $300 per person and includes course materials, lodging, meals and other incidentals involved while at the school. Deadline for registration is July 15. Space is limited to 35 participants, so early registration is advised. KGLC offers every eligible rancher, college student, and agency personnel scholarship funds to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Scholarships range from $150 for ranchers and college students to $100 for agency staff. Registration and scholarship forms are available online at www.kglc.org, 2011 Range Schools.

KGLC has hosted this school in different settings since 2005, so there is a history of providing attendees with high quality education using a mix of ranchers, organization and agency staffs, and university specialists. They are able to create a real sense of connection with the grazing lands ranchers and others use to extract a living. A great emphasis has always been put on learning native grassland plants and then, to understand how to measure and monitor the seasonal grazing pressure on those plants to be able to predict healthy use and determine forage reserves, all to help the economic bottom line. Our instructors work one-on-one with attendees to answer questions and ensure that learning occurs and is retained.

Contact: Tim Christian 620-241-3636

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Aug 13th, 2011 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve on the second Saturday of each month, beginning June 11 at 8 am. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: KNPS

Purple Loosestrife Eradication Day • Douglas County

Saturday, Aug 13th, 2011 @ 8:30-11:30am

2900 Wildflower Dr. • Lawrence, KS • Map

On Aug. 13th GHF will host our 2nd Annual Purple Loosestrife Eradication Day when we will dig out invasive purple loosestrife plants from a Lawrence city park. The Kanza Southwind Nature Preserve has a small stand of the plants growing near the trail head at 2900 Wildflower Dr. and they need to go!

In the past, purple loosestrife was sold at area garden centers and nurseries as an ornamental plant. Unfortunately, it is a serious invader of wetland areas. It spreads easily and can overtake ponds, streams, and other wetlands if it becomes established. The Kansas Dept.of Ag. quarantined the plant in 2002 making it illegal to sell it in the state however, many plants still exist in public areas and private gardens.

We need your help! If you'd like to do your part to protect our wetlands and wet prairies, bring your shovels and gloves and help us get rid of this noxious weed. Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet (mud boots are great) and bring a bottle for water. We'll have extra water and other refreshments for everyone.

An RSVP is preferred. This is a rain or shine event. We hope to see everyone there!

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

More Info: Kanza Southwind Nature Preserve

Sponsor: Grassland Heritage Foundation

Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Aug 9th, 2011 @ 6:45pm

1263 North 1100 Road • Lawrence, KS • Map

Herbs Study Group is a fun & informative monthly meeting where we learn about the aspects of each herb: culinary uses, aromatherapy applications, medicinal properties, historical lore, growing and crafting. This group is open to anyone wanting to learn more about the herbs grown in the garden and in the wild. There is a $2 fee to cover costs (group is non-profit). We meet the 2nd Tuesday evening of each month at the Unitarian Fellowship. Send email to sign up for newsletter & updates: HerbStudyGroup@gmail.com

Contact: Tamara 785-331-4213

Sponsor: Herbs Study Group

Prairie Seed Collection • Chase County

Saturday, Aug 6th, 2011 @ 9am-noon

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

Help The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service with vital prairie restoration by collecting seeds at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The seeds collected will be used to restore prior cultivated areas on the preserve. The workdays are a great opportunity to learn more about the prairie plants and about the restoration work that is being done at the Preserve.
Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing, wear sturdy shoes and sun hat, bring drinking water and wear bug spray. Training will be provided. Please be aware that we will encounter warm and hot weather and we will be on areas of the preserve with no shade.
This year, several seed collecting workdays are being planned. Four of the workdays will be on Saturday with two workdays scheduled for Thursday. The dates are as follows: Saturday, June 4 ; Saturday, June 18 ; Thursday, July 7 ; Saturday, July 16 ; Saturday, Aug 6 ; Thursday, Sept 8.
If you would like to participate or have questions, please contact Ruth.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

Summer Board Meeting • Riley County

Saturday, Jul 16th, 2011 @ 12-3pm

Hale Library • Manhattan, KS • Map

Lunch and the Board meeting will be in the Hemisphere Room of Hale Library at K-State. Lunch is at noon. Non-Board Members should plan to bring their own lunch. During lunch, we will visit the Seaton Hall's green roof. Seaton Hall is adjacent to the Hale Library. The green roof is a research project of the Landscape Architecture Department. The board meeting runs from 1 to 3pm. Prior to the meeting there is also an outing at Konza. See Summer Board Outing.

Contact: Mike Haddock 785-776-0680

Sponsor: K-State Libraries

Prairie Management at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jul 16th, 2011

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Summer Board Outing • Riley County

Saturday, Jul 16th, 2011 @ 9-11am

Konza Prairie • Manhattan, KS • Map

Preceding the board meeting, we will botanize at Konza Prairie, 9:00-11:00am. Everyone is welcome. Meet at the Konza parking area.
Lunch and the Board meeting will be in the Hemisphere Room of Hale Library at K-State from 1-3pm. See listing for Summer Board meeting.

Contact: Mike Haddock

Prairie Seed Collection • Chase County

Saturday, Jul 16th, 2011 @ 9am-noon

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

Help The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service with vital prairie restoration by collecting seeds at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The seeds collected will be used to restore prior cultivated areas on the preserve. The workdays are a great opportunity to learn more about the prairie plants and about the restoration work that is being done at the Preserve.
Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing, wear sturdy shoes and sun hat, bring drinking water and wear bug spray. Training will be provided. Please be aware that we will encounter warm and hot weather and we will be on areas of the preserve with no shade.
This year, several seed collecting workdays are being planned. Four of the workdays will be on Saturday with two workdays scheduled for Thursday. The dates are as follows: Saturday, June 4 ; Saturday, June 18 ; Thursday, July 7 ; Saturday, July 16 ; Saturday, Aug 6 ; Thursday, Sept 8.
If you would like to participate or have questions, please contact Ruth.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

Manhattan Butterfly Count • Riley County

Wednesday, Jul 13th, 2011 @ 9am-2:30pm

Manhattan Plant Materials Center • 3800 S 20th St • Manhattan, KS • Map

The 37th Annual North American Butterfly Association (NABA) Count will be held at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Manhattan Plant Materials Center (PMC), Wednesday, July 13, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There is no charge to participate in the count, but volunteers need to register by Monday, July 11, by calling 785-539-8761, to assure adequate supply of materials and handouts. Those attending should bring a sack lunch, bug spray, binoculars, field guides, and camera (if you have them) and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Attendees at the event will be on their own for transportation. If special accommodations are needed, please let the PMC know.

Contact: Richard Wynia 785-539-8761

Sponsor: Manhattan Plant Materials Center

Herbs Study Group • Douglas County

Tuesday, Jul 12th, 2011 @ 7pm

Unitarian Fellowship • 1263 N. 1100 Rd. • Lawrence, KS • Map

Herbs Study Group is a fun & informative monthly meeting where we learn about the aspects of each herb: culinary uses, aromatherapy applications, medicinal properties, historical lore, growing and crafting. This group is open to anyone wanting to learn more about the herbs grown in the garden and in the wild. There is a $2 fee to cover costs (group is non-profit). We meet at 7pm the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Unitarian Fellowship.

Contact: Tamara 785-691-5914

Sponsor: Herbs Study Group

Papermaking from Plant Fiber Workshop • Shawnee County

Sunday, Jul 10th, 2011 @ 10am-3pm

3440 NW Button Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Jeff Hansen, will teach us how to make paper using native plant fibers. In this class we will learn the different types of plant fiber, the process of extracting the fiber from the plant, and the process of forming sheets of paper from the resulting fiber. We will work in teams of two and all participants will get to make paper from various fibers. The resulting paper will be shared equally among class members. The class will be conducted at historic Karlyle Woods, located at 3440 NW Button Rd in Topeka. The cost of the workshop is $35 and includes lunch. The workshop is limited to 12 people (Ages 12 and up). All materials and equipment are provided. Follow the link for more information and to sign up. Reservations are required.

Contact: Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917

More Info: Papermaking Workshop Registration

Sponsor: KNPS

Long Lips Farm Butterfly Garden Party • Miami County

Saturday, Jul 9th, 2011 @ 5pm-midnight

27995 Plum Creek Road • Paola, KS • Map

This third annual event celebrates a 4 acre butterfly garden set in a rural 27 acre property that includes pasture, lake, swamp and hardwood forest. Over 500 plants, including many natives, populate the planted gardens which are certified by the North American Butterfly Association and Monarch Watch. This will be a KNPS caterpillar plant tour and the Idalia Butterfly Society members will assist with identification of butterflies, moths and dragonflies. Guests should bring a dish to pass, their beverages and lawn chairs. Children are welcome to swim or fish in the lake. Also sponsored by Miami County Master Gardeners

Contact: Lenora Larson 816-225-2352

More Info: Garden Party Invitation

Sponsor: Idalia Butterfly Society

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Jul 9th, 2011 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve on the second Saturday of each month, beginning June 11 at 8 am. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event. Please RSVP Glenn if you plan to attend.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: KNPS

Jackson Street Spring Wildflower Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Jul 7th, 2011 @ 6-7:30pm

SW 8th Ave & SW Jackson St • Topeka, KS • Map

Join Topeka Public Works employees and KNPS members for a walk along the Jackson Street bioretention cells. Created in 2003, these cells collect stormwater and filter the water through the use of native plantings. Topics discussed will include the planning of the cells, landscaping of the area, water treatment and, of course, the native plantings. This walk coincides with Top City Thursday, so there will be other activities to participate in downtown throughout the evening. Meet at the NW corner of 8th & Jackson. Please RSVP Mickey by email if you plan to attend.

Contact: Mickey Delfelder

Sponsor: KNPS

Prairie Seed Collection • Chase County

Thursday, Jul 7th, 2011 @ 9am-noon

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

Help The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service with vital prairie restoration by collecting seeds at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The seeds collected will be used to restore prior cultivated areas on the preserve. The workdays are a great opportunity to learn more about the prairie plants and about the restoration work that is being done at the Preserve.
Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing, wear sturdy shoes and sun hat, bring drinking water and wear bug spray. Training will be provided. Please be aware that we will encounter warm and hot weather and we will be on areas of the preserve with no shade.
This year, several seed collecting workdays are being planned. Four of the workdays will be on Saturday with two workdays scheduled for Thursday. The dates are as follows: Saturday, June 4 ; Saturday, June 18 ; Thursday, July 7 ; Saturday, July 16 ; Saturday, Aug 6 ; Thursday, Sept 8.
If you would like to participate or have questions, please contact Ruth.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

North American Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Short Course • Nebraska

Wednesday, Jul 6th, 2011 to Friday, Jul 8th, 2011

402 West State Farm Road • North Platte, NE • Map

This course is 3 days of intense instruction and learning for those interested in the basics of invasive plant ecology and management. It is offered to land managers, landowners, researchers, policymakers, and graduate students by the University of Nebraska West Central Research and Extension Center.

Contact: Steve Young (308) 696-6712

More Info: Course Info

Sponsor: West Central Research and Extension Center

Range Youth Camp • Kingman County

Tuesday, Jul 5th, 2011 to Friday, Jul 8th, 2011

Camp Mennoscah • 9458 SE 40 Street • Murdock, KS • Map

A camp for freshman, sophmores, and juniors that teaches kids about managing rangelands, wildlife habitat, and learning how to identify range plants. Includes a leadership course, a range tour, and steak dinner.

Contact: Alex Miller 785-457-3661 ext. 106

More Info: Youth Camp

Sponsor: Kansas Section of the Society for Range Management

Prairie Appreciation Day • Jackson County

Saturday, Jun 25th, 2011 @ 9am-4pm

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

GHF will host our 3rd Annual Prairie Appreciation Day on June 25 from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. The day will be feature a walk led by GHF board member Frank Norman, hands-on activities, lunch, and an opportunity to help with some of the prairie restoration activities.
This is a great opportunity to see the gorgeous 140-acre native and restored prairie and learn about many of it's native plant and animal species. You'll also get to hear about the work that Frank and the Groundhogs are doing to restore the prairie.
Snyder Prairie is about 17 miles north of Topeka on Hwy. 75. To get to the prairie take Hwy. 75 north to 158th St. (just south of Mayetta) Turn east on 158th St. and go approx. 3 miles to U Rd. Turn right (south) on U Rd. and proceed another ½ mile to the gate. Park on the west side of U Rd. and well away from the neighbors' driveway.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

NABA Flint Hills Butterfly Count • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 25th, 2011 @ 830am-4:30pm

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Strong City, KS • Map

Join us for the 3rd Annual NABA Flint Hills Butterfly Count. No prior experience in identifying butterflies is necessary. Please bring binoculars, water, sunscreen and bug spray. A digital camera will also come in handy. Suggested attire includes hiking boots, hat, and long pants.
Be sure to RSVP 620-273-6034 and bring your own sack lunch. Water will be provided. Group counts will run from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 (noon) and again from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There will be a small lunch break between sessions to compare notes, share adventures, and switch groups and locations. Transportation to counting locations will be by car-pooling in private vehicles, which will be no further than 7 miles one way.

Contact: Paula Matile 620-273-8556

Salina Region Gathering & Tour of Smoky Hills Audubon Sanctuary • Saline County

Saturday, Jun 25th, 2011 @ 10am-noon

3000-3098 West Stimmel Rd • Salina, KS • Map

The gathering will allow members of KNPS and anyone interested, to meet one another and share knowledge of native Kansas plants, flowers and insects. Refreshments will be served at noon following a tour of the Audubon Sanctuary.
The Kansas Native Plant Society was organized in 1978 to encourage awareness and appreciation for native Kansas plants. KNPS promotes many events and educational programs across the state. In an effort to better serve the public the state was broken into regions. The area manager for the Salina region is photographer Mark Neubrand. The Salina chapter includes, Lincoln, Ellsworth, Ottawa, Saline and Dickinson counties.
The event is open to anyone with an interest in wildflowers, native Kansas plants, butterflies, insects, birds and nature photography. A variety of people with knowledge in each of these areas will be available to answer questions or learn from the participants.
The walk will be held at the Smoky Hill Audubon’s wildlife sanctuary. It is just southwest of the intersection of I-70 and I-35. Turn South on North Halstead Road exit # 249 and east on West Stimmel road ¾ mile to the Sanctuary. Signs will lead the way. The trails are level and mowed and are not challenging to walk on. The Sanctuary covers 68 acres and features woodlands and prairie as well as a 20 acre lake with an observation / photography blind.

Contact: Mark Neubrand 785-820-1271

More Info: Salina Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Grant-Bradbury Prairie Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Jun 23rd, 2011 @ 6:30pm-dark

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Join KNPS for the 9th Annual Grant Bradbury prairie walk. This 80-acre pristine tallgrass prairie contains over 300 plant species. On this tour, you will learn and see the plants and animals of the prairie. Bring a camera because the spring wildflowers will be at their peak. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes. Children are encouraged to come. Jeff Hansen, wildflower expert, will lead the tour. Directions: Take Topeka Blvd south to the University Blvd intersection (stoplight), take a right. Take University west about half a mile - when the road curves south, you are at the driveway to the park gate. There is a small building at the driveway. Contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917

Manhattan Region Prairie Outing • Riley County

Thursday, Jun 23rd, 2011 @ 6:30pm

R.B. Outpost • 7003 Tuttle Creek Boulevard • Manhattan, KS • Map

The Manhattan Region of KNPS is sponsoring a prairie outing on the evening of June 23 @ 6:30 PM. We will be visiting a 480-acre tract of native prairie pastureland that belongs to Bob Haines of Manhattan. Several years ago, Bob became interested in improving this pasture and another nearby tract that have been in his family since his grandfather purchased them. He has decreased the cattle stocking rate, been removing trees and woody vegetation, and has started a rotational burning regimen. His efforts won him the Riley County Conservation Grassland Award last year. There is a very diverse grass and forbs plant community on this tract. We will meet next to the R.B. Outpost (A business on the northeast side of the highway just past Blue River Hills Road) on US-24 north of Manhattan @ 6:30. Travel 4.6 miles northwest from the intersection of K-113 & US-24 northwest of Manhattan to get to the R.B. Outpost. For information, call Earl Allen @785-539-5896.

Contact: Earl Allen 785-539-5896

Sponsor: KNPS

Birds, Butterflies and Breakfast • Cowley County

Saturday, Jun 18th, 2011 @ 8:30am

Chaplin Nature Center • 27801 27th Drive • Arkansas City, KS • Map

Start the day with a melody of birds as you eat breakfast on the porch of the visitor's center, 7:30am. After breakfast we will walk the trails in search of butterflies and wildflowers. Event sponsor: Wichita Audubon Society. Please register with Shawn at least 2 days in advance so we'll have enough breakfast. Chaplin Nature Center is located near Arkansas City, KS.

Contact: Shawn Silliman (620) 442-4133

More Info: Chaplin Nature Center

Sponsor: Wichita Audubon Society

KU Medicinal Garden Summer Tour • Douglas County

Saturday, Jun 18th, 2011 @ 10am-noon

KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Garden • 1865 E. 1600 Road • Lawrence, KS • Map

The garden is half a mile north of Highway 40, adjacent to the Prairie Moon Waldorf Schools grounds. So much is new at the garden this summer! We'll meet just inside the gate under our new shade structure. We'll provide our signature tea made from three native mints. Here's some of what you'll see:

* Demonstration/show garden -- This 70- by 80-foot garden includes six different themed beds of medicinal plants: echinacea species, milkweed species, tea/scented plants, native edible plants, classical European medicinals, and native plants in the U.S. Pharmacopeia and National Formulary.

* Shade structure -- At the center of the show garden, this shelter is built entirely from reclaimed lumber from Westar.

* KU Student Farm -- Now in its first year of open operation, it's thriving as a community garden with more than 25 separate plots.

* New research plantings -- We have expanded our research section to include six new species, bringing us to almost 30 species in our research rows.

* Native plants natural dye garden -- This soon-to-be-planted garden is part of an independent study by a KU fine arts student.

Contact: Kirsten Bosnak 785-864-6267

More Info: Events

Sponsor: KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program

Prairie Seed Collection • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 18th, 2011 @ 9am-noon

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

Help The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service with vital prairie restoration by collecting seeds at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The seeds collected will be used to restore prior cultivated areas on the preserve. The workdays are a great opportunity to learn more about the prairie plants and about the restoration work that is being done at the Preserve.
Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing, wear sturdy shoes and sun hat, bring drinking water and wear bug spray. Training will be provided. Please be aware that we will encounter warm and hot weather and we will be on areas of the preserve with no shade.
This year, several seed collecting workdays are being planned. Four of the workdays will be on Saturday with two workdays scheduled for Thursday. The dates are as follows: Saturday, June 4 ; Saturday, June 18 ; Thursday, July 7 ; Saturday, July 16 ; Saturday, Aug 6 ; Thursday, Sept 8.
If you would like to participate or have questions, please contact Ruth.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

How Prairie Wildflowers Reveal Their Life Histories • Sedgwick County

Monday, Jun 13th, 2011 to Thursday, Jun 16th, 2011

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E.29th St. North • Wichita, KS • Map

Learn the uses of prairie plants by indigenous people, settlers and modern occupants of our geographical area. Observe insect pollination at work on native plants and the value of prairie plants for habitat and food for various species of wildlife. Identify wild plants adaptable to the home garden. Examine the factors contributing to the mosaic of palnts across the Tallgrass Region and the effects of conservation strategies on abundance and diversity of prairie organisms. Receive materials and ideas useful in the classroom, garden and field.

Contact: Joyce Lent (316) 683-5499 ext 210

More Info: Class Info

Sponsor: Emporia State University

Akin Prairie With Both Kansas & Virginia Native Plant Societies • Douglas County

Sunday, Jun 12th, 2011 @ 9-11am

1850 N 1150 Rd • Lawrence, KS • Map

Please join the convergence of two native plant societies as they delight in a high quality prairie in Douglas County, KS from 9-11am. Virginia Native Plant Society is making a field trip to Kansas in June and one of their many stops is to enjoy the Akin Prairie. This prairie is protected by a conservation easement from the Kansas Land Trust. Shirley Braunlich, Board Member with the Kansas Native Plant Society will lead this tour. Directions: Two miles east of Lawrence on K-10, take the E. 1900 Rd (Douglas Co. 1057) exit and go south two miles to N. 1150 Road. Take N. 1150 to the west (right) about .4 mi. The prairie is on the south, and the top of the hill. You’ll see an iron gate, and just inside the fence, a small memorial to Ms. Akin.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

Sponsor: KNPS

Grassland Heritage Festival at Cimarron National Grassland • Morton County

Saturday, Jun 11th, 2011 @ 9:30am

Morton County Historical Society Museum • 370 E Highway 56 • Elkhart, KS • Map

Join us for a wildflower walk at the Cimarron Grasslands. Brunch & Slideshow at the museum, followed by Wildflower and Foliage tour led by Steve Watts and Nancy Brewer. Vehicles will car pool from the Museum following brunch. Call the MCHS Museum (620) 697-2833 for tour reservations $5.00. See more info in the Grassland Heritage Festival link.

Contact: MCHS Museum (620) 697-2833

More Info: Grassland Heritage Festival

Sponsor: Morton County Historical Society Museum

Cowley County Wildflower Tour • Cowley County

Saturday, Jun 11th, 2011 @ 8:30am-2:30pm

Conservation District • 2118 E 9th St, Ste B • Winfield, KS • Map

Come join us as we explore the pastures on the Snyder Ranch in eastern Cowley County. Native pastures provide a unique opportunity to enjoy native plants in their best possible environment. We will provide lunch and transportation to the ranch for a fee of $5 per person. Please come join us for a fantastic tour led by Conservation District, NRCS, KNPS, Farm Bureau and Southwestern College staff.

Contact: Rachel Workman 620-221-1850 ext 3

Smoky Hills Prairie Exploration • McPherson County

Saturday, Jun 11th, 2011 @ 8-10am

Location avaiable upon registration • Canton, KS • Map

Explore, identify butterflies, and botanize "Buffalo Hill" in McPherson County near Canton. Witness this beautiful prairie gem in the Smoky Hills at its most glorious time of the year. Butterfly milkweed will be in bloom, the regal fritillaries will be in flight and the dickcissels, grasshopper sparrows, and meadowlarks will be giving a full serenade. Lucky explorers may even see bison. KNPS members (existing or new) will be served a fresh cinnamon roll and egg breakfast on the prairie. This is private property that is only open to us on this day. Contact Brad Guhr (bradguhr@yahoo.com/316-217-4566) to register and get directions.

Contact: Brad Guhr 316-217-4566

More Info: Become a KNPS member

Sponsor: KNPS

Chase County Tallgrass Prairie Walk • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 11th, 2011 @ 8-10am

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

A walk on the tallgrass prairie in the heart of the Flint Hills at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve on the second Saturday of each month, beginning June 11 at 8 am. We will meet at the Bottomland Trailhead which is about 2 miles south of the headquaters. Take the dirt road at the cemetery on the east side of hwy 177 about 2 miles south of the Preserve HQ buildings. This will be a leisurely informal walk to enjoy the wonders of the prairie and identify native flora. Glenn Fell will be the official "guide" but everyone's knowledge will be called upon for an informal and fun experience. This is a KNPS Emporia Region event.

Contact: Glenn Fell 620 794 8478

More Info: KNPS Emporia Region

Sponsor: KNPS

Presentation: Native Prairie Roadsides: The Iowa Example • Wabaunsee County

Friday, Jun 10th, 2011 @ 10am-noon

Wabaunsee High School • 912 Missouri Avenue • Alma, KS • Map

An introduction to the Techniques of Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management by Daryl Smith founder and director of the Tallgrass Prairie Center, Cedar Falls, IA
Interested public, road maintenance workers, road and noxious weed directors, and highway and county officials are all encouraged to attend this introduction to managing our prairie roadsides. IRVM is based upon an application of the principles of ecology to roadside vegetation management.
Sponsored by the Wabaunsee County Commissioners, KDOT, Mt. Mitchell Prairie Guards, Kansas Native Plant Society, Audubon of Kansas, Kansas Wildlife Federation, and Symphony in the Flint Hills.

Contact: Michael Stubbs 785-256-6228

Sponsor: KNPS

Wildflowers and Grasses Walk • Riley County

Thursday, Jun 9th, 2011 @ 7-8:30pm

8775 Fairview Church Rd • Manhattan, KS • Map

Learn the Wildflowers and Grasses of the northern Flint Hills, and see the results of cutting cedars and burning. Sturdy shoes, long pants, hat and insect repellent recommended. Walking tour over uneven ground requiring a level of fitness. No pets, no restroom, please plan accordingly. Attendance limited to first 60 who RSVP. Located 12.5 miles north of Manhattan, KS or 6.5 miles south of Randolph, KS

Contact: Bob Lienemann 785 537 8764 ext 1301

More Info: Tour Flyer

Sponsor: Riley, Geary and Pottawatomie Co Conservation Districts

Flint Hills Prairie Wildflower & Pasture Tour • Chase County

Thursday, Jun 9th, 2011 @ 4pm

Cassoday Grade School • Cassoday, KS • Map

Tour the beautiful Flint Hills by bus and see the prairie's wildflowers. Buses will load at: Cassoday Grade School at 4:00 PM or Matfield Green - HWY 177 at 4:15 PM
RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE! Limited attendance on this tour. Will travel by school bus with tour guide on each bus. There is a port-a-potty available along the route. For more information and to make reservations: Call one of the following Extension Offices: 316-321-9660 - Butler Co. or 620-273-6491 - Chase Co. Persons having reduced mobility needs may call for information. Tour has uneven walking terrain.This tour is sponsored by: Butler & Chase County Conservation Districts and Butler & Chase County Extension

Contact: S Lewis 316-321-9660

More Info: Tour Flyer

Sponsor: Butler County Extension Office

75th Anniversary Field Day at the Manhattan Plant Materials Center • Riley County

Tuesday, Jun 7th, 2011 @ 8am-3:30pm

Plant Materials Center • 3800 South 20th Street • Manhattan, KS • Map

The following field day activities to celebrate the anniversary will include:
8:00 – 9:00 Registration
9:00 – 10:00 Welcome and PMC Overview
10:00 – 12:00 PMC Tour
12:00 – 1:00 Lunch catered by Ricky’s Café, $7:50 charge
1:00 – 3:30 Breakout sessions including the following:
-Native Grass/Forbs, Tree/shrub Issues, Rainfall Simulator, Bio-Energy, Soils, Forbs/Medicinal Uses, Cover Crops, and Pollinators.

Reservations for the field day are needed by May 20 and can be made by calling the PMC at 785-539-8761. There will be a $7.50 charge for lunch payable at noon to the caterer.

This field day will be conducted outdoors so dress appropriately. Hat, sunscreen, walking shoes and a lawn chair (if desired) are encouraged.

Contact: Rich Wynia 785-539-8761

More Info: Field Day Event

Sponsor: NRCS Plant Materials Center Sponsor

Earth Partnership for Schools Summer Institute • Harvey County

Monday, Jun 6th, 2011 to Friday, Jun 10th, 2011 @ 8am-5pm

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

This 40-hour institute for school teachers and staff will train you in the award-winning Earth Partnership for Schools (EPS) Program that you can share with your students and colleagues for years to come. Learn to engage your students in the process of prairie gardening on school grounds, earn three hours of graduate credit, take home an extensive curriculum, eat good food for a week, and have a fun and meaningful experience at the Dyck Arboretum!

Contact: Brad Guhr (620) 327-8127

More Info: Event Info

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Friends of Konza Prairie Annual Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Sunday, Jun 5th, 2011 @ 6:30pm

Konza Prairie Biological Station • 100 Konza Prairie Lane • Manhattan, KS • Map

Wildflower walks of about one mile are led by Konza Environmental Education Program experienced docents.
This year we are adding slide shows and activities in the renovated barn (Konza Meeting Hall). Call 785 587-0441 for a reservation or goto the Wildflower Walk link. Please state the number of persons in your party. $10 for non-members/free to FOKP members. Join FOKP and enjoy other free events at Konza Prairie!

Contact: Valerie Wright 785 587-0441

More Info: Wildflower Walk

Sponsor: Friends of Konza

Sand Hills State Park Bird Outing • Reno County

Saturday, Jun 4th, 2011 @ 7am

Sand Hills State Park • 4207 E. 56th • Hutchinson, KS • Map

Birders on this early summer trip should expect some of the local specialties and an abundance of wildflowers and butterflies. The focus will be on birds, but we love wildflowers, too. Depart at 7am from the King's-X Restaurant at 21st and Amidon in Wichita. Contact Cheryl to attend.

Contact: Cheryl Miller

Spring Wildflower Tour at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • McPherson County

Saturday, Jun 4th, 2011 @ 10am

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • Canton, KS • Map

Board the tram for a tour of the prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. There is also a self guided walking tour with flowers flagged. The Refuge is located 6 miles north of Canton, KS. (Adults - $8, Under 12 - $5) Call 620-628-4455 for more information.

Contact: (620)-628-4455

Wildflower Walk at Konza Prairie • Riley County

Saturday, Jun 4th, 2011 @ 6:30-11:30am

Konza Prairie • Manhattan, KS • Map

Meet at the Topeka Zoo parking lot (635 Southwest Gage Blvd) to carpool to Konza. This is a wildflower and birding field trip.

Contact: Debra McKee 785-220-6515

Sponsor: Topeka Audubon Society

Program: Butterflies & Native Plants • Johnson County

Saturday, Jun 4th, 2011 @ 10am-noon

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

The Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society will have a program on Butterflies and the native plants they need for food and shelter. Lenora Larson a member of the KNPS and a nationally recognized expert on butterflies will give the program. A followup to this program will be a field trip on July 9, 2011 in Miami County, Kansas at the Long Lips Farm of Lenora Larson showing her amazing work on the plants that butterflies need to survive. Members and visitors are welcome.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Hidden Valley Trail Maintenance • Douglas County

Saturday, Jun 4th, 2011 @ 8am-noon

3420 W. Bob Billings Pkwy • Lawrence, KS • Map

June 4th is National Trails Day! Celebrate with us and join in our annual workday as we clear back encroaching brush along the numerous trails of Hidden Valley Camp, a 40-acre semi-wilderness area in the heart of Lawrence, KS.
Long pants and sleeves recommended, and sturdy, enclosed shoes a must. Tools and work gloves provided, as well as refreshments (ice water & trail mix). Sharp loppers and pruning saws optional. Any amount of time appreciated. Contact Durand for details. (Raindate: Sunday, June 5, 11am-3pm)

Contact: Durand Reiber 785-865-4657

Sponsor: Friends of Hidden Valley

Prairie Seed Collection • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 4th, 2011 @ 9am-noon

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • 2480 Hwy 177 • Stong City, KS • Map

Help The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service with vital prairie restoration by collecting seeds at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The seeds collected will be used to restore prior cultivated areas on the preserve. The workdays are a great opportunity to learn more about the prairie plants and about the restoration work that is being done at the Preserve.
Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing, wear sturdy shoes and sun hat, bring drinking water and wear bug spray. Training will be provided. Please be aware that we will encounter warm and hot weather and we will be on areas of the preserve with no shade.
This year, several seed collecting workdays are being planned. Four of the workdays will be on Saturday with two workdays scheduled for Thursday. The dates are as follows: Saturday, June 4 ; Saturday, June 18 ; Thursday, July 7 ; Saturday, July 16 ; Saturday, Aug 6 ; Thursday, Sept 8.
If you would like to participate or have questions, please contact Ruth.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

[CANCELLED] Grant County Wildflower Tour • Grant County

Saturday, May 28th, 2011 @ 9am-noon

Fuel Barn • 1845 West Oklahoma Avenue • Ulysses, KS • Map

Cancelled due to drought conditions. Join us to look for and examine the wildflowers found in the Grant County area. Meet inside the Fuel Barn convenience store 1-mile west of Ulysses, on Hwy 160 by 9am. We’ll to pool cars and go to the areas together. Some transportation will be provided. No fee or reservation needed. Alternate Contact: Sam Guy (620) 356-3548.

Contact: Marion McGlohon 620-356-2205

Wildflower Walk: Search for Mead's Milkweed • Franklin County

Sunday, May 22nd, 2011 @ 1pm-3pm

K-68 & Main St • Pomona, KS • Map

Join KNPS in exploring this private 12 acre prairie hay meadow near Pomona, KS. We will help the owner, a KNPS member, see if she has Mead's Milkweed on her property. We will also see what woodland wildflowers are growing in the adjoining woods. Meet at the corner of K-68 & Main Street in Pomona, KS at 1pm to caravan to the property.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785-806-6917

Sponsor: KNPS

KLT's Annual Akin Prairie Wildflower Walk • Douglas County

Sunday, May 22nd, 2011 @ 1pm-2:30pm

1850 N 1150 Rd • Lawrence, KS • Map

Led by KLT founding member Dr. Kelly Kindscher, our ever-popular Wildflower Walk is a treat for the soul and the senses. This event is free and open to all. Wear sturdy shoes, pants, hat, and repellent. Bring the family and enjoy the bouquet of the prairie meadow!

Contact: Carol Huettner (785) 749-3297

Sponsor: Kansas Land Trust

Rock Springs Wildflower Walk • Geary County

Saturday, May 21st, 2011 @ 9am-2pm

Rock Springs • 1168 K-157 Highway • Junction City, KS • Map

Come and see the colorful spring wildflowers at Rock Springs 4-H Center! Rock Springs is located just south and west of Junction City, KS and consists of over 735 acres of land in the beautiful Flint Hills. One of the most unique features of Rock Springs is the natural spring that supplies 1,000 gallons of water a minute!

The Wildflower Walk will include morning snacks, a hot lunch at the dining hall, and an instructor led wildflower identification walk, for a cost per participant of $15. The Wildflower Walk brochure (found under ‘More Info’ below) has more information about the day’s events and also includes the registration form.

Contact: Chelsea Shrack 785-257-3551

More Info: Wildflower Walk Brochure (PDF)

Sponsor: Rock Springs 4-H Center

Event Report

70 people attended the event.

Refreshments at the morning registration included cinnamon rolls, juice and coffee. We all introduced ourselves, I believe, including the audience, and Chelsea Schrack gave an overview of the day's events and divided us into hiking groups, identified by number, as I recall. Nancy Calhoun had suggested we take plant anatomy work sheets, so we had copies of that KEEP Docent handout for everyone. We were instructed that each group should elect a spokesperson to report on one memorable hike happening, when we met for the wrapup after lunch. Hike leaders had gone down the week before for a tour, so we were familiar with the path. As I recall, we hiked up and explored a horse pasture, over to a lake area, and down to the spring house area. After the hike, we had a hearty and tasty buffet lunch, and then retired back to the meeting room. Each group spokesperson gave a short report on their findings. Each report was unique and interesting. Somehow, we all focused on different aspects, and found that our experiences shared elements but also diverged quite a bit based on who was in each group and what they brought to the experience. That was fun to see. At the end, we took a vote to see who would like to have the event as a repeat. There was 100% agreement of interest in coming again.

Tree ID Workshop • Wyandotte County

Saturday, May 21st, 2011 @ 2-4:30 p.m.

F.L. Schlagle Library • 4051 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Join Lead Education Specialist Craig Hensley at Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library for a look at the identification of trees, shrubs and vines of Wyandotte County Lake Park. Meet at the library and plan on spending the majority of the program on the trail as we compare and contrast the various woody plants of the area. Please call 913.299.2384 to reserve a spot for this program.

Contact: Craig Hensley (913) 299-2384

Prairie Management at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, May 21st, 2011

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Mushrooms with Maxine Stone • Missouri

Saturday, May 21st, 2011 @ 8am-1pm

Burr Oak Woods • 1401 NW Park Road • Blue Springs, MO • Map

Maxine Stone wrote the book for MDC, Missouri Department of Conservation on mushrooms.

Contact: Susan Appel 913-663-1709

More Info: Missouri Master Naturalists Programs

Sponsor: MDC

Fire in Eastern Oak Forests Conference • Missouri

Tuesday, May 17th, 2011 to Thursday, May 19th, 2011 @ 8am

University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center • 333 John Q. Hammons Parkway • Springfield, MO • Map

Sixteen presentations on the theme of “Managing Oak Woodlands and Savannas in the Forest-Prairie Region” will be offered as part of the Fire in Eastern Oak Forests Conference offered by the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station and partners.

This symposium is designed for managers, scientists, landowners, consultants and students and will emphasize topics relevant to managing oak-dominated forests, woodlands and savannas.

Registration is $175 and includes breaks, lunches, one conference dinner and a conference program. Registration is $75 for students.

Contact: Jane Hodgins 651-649-5281

More Info: Conference

Sponsor: U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station

Prairie Park Plant Sale • Douglas County

Sunday, May 15th, 2011 @ 1-4pm

Prairie Park Nature Center • Lawrence, KS • Map

A huge selection of native wildflowers, shrubs and plants. A fundraiser for Prairie Park Partners.
Promoting earthfriendly, sustainably and locally grown landscaping plants. Grown by Vinland Valley Nursery.

Contact: Marty Birrell (785) 832-7980

Sponsor: Prairie Park Nature Center

Woodland Wildflower Walk • Wyandotte County

Saturday, May 14th, 2011 @ 2-4pm

F.L. Schlagle Library • 4051 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Bring your hiking shoes and hit the trail as we take a walk in the woods of Wyandotte County Lake Park in search of spring wildflowers. Meet at Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library to begin our search for Dutchman's breeches, spring beauty and other seasonal wonders. Please call 913.299.2384 to reserve a spot for this program.

Contact: Craig Hensley (913) 299-2384

Atchison Region Presentation on Prairie Restoration & Tour • Jackson County

Saturday, May 14th, 2011 @ 10:30am

Beck-Bookman Library • 420 West 4th Street • Holton, KS • Map

All KNPS members, and other interested persons, of Jackson, Jefferson, Atchison, Nemaha, Brown, and Doniphan Counties are invited to the first meeting of the northeast Kansas Native Plant Society region. Frank Norman, plant ecologist, botanist, prairie enthusiast, and president of Norman Ecological Consulting, LLC, will present a talk on prairie restoration activities being performed at Snyder Prairie near Mayetta, a 140-acre tract of land owned and managed by Grassland Heritage Foundation. Following his presentation the group will caravan to Snyder Prairie, weather permitting, for refreshments and a tour of this pristine prairie remnant. The group also hopes to plan future meetings at other interesting sites featuring native wildflowers, grasses, and trees in the six-county area. Those who can attend are welcome to bring children and friends. Please RSVP to Fred or Nancy Coombs at coombs@rainbowtel.net or 785-872-3463.

Contact: Fred or Nancy Coombs 785-872-3463

More Info: Grassland Heritage Foundation

Sponsor: KNPS

Medicinal plant demonstration/show garden planting party • Douglas County

Saturday, May 14th, 2011 @ 10am-1pm

1865 E. 1600 Road • Lawrence, KS • Map

This gathering will be a relaxed, informal event focused on getting plants in the ground. There will be six themed beds of medicinal plants (including two beds with only Echinacea and milkweed species), about 90 species total. All ages are welcome to come get their hands dirty or just make a visit.

Also at the garden site:
* the thriving medicinal plants in the research area planted last year;
* the KU Student Farm, now in its first year as a true community garden;
* our new shade structure, designed by a KU engineering student and built with reclaimed materials from the Westar Green Team;
* our composting latrine (construction underway) designed and built by the KU student group Engineers Without Borders.

Contact: Kirsten Bosnak 785-864-6267

Sponsor: KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program

Kliesen Ranch Wildflower Walk • Comanche County

Saturday, May 14th, 2011 @ 9am-noonish

2870 North Loop • Wilmore, KS • Map

The Kliesen Ranch is located in the Red Hills of Kansas. Participants will tour the ranch pastures. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and the abundance of wildflowers on this special private tour. Contact June for directions, as the map link doesn't find the address. Please RSVP June if you plan to attend. This is the Pratt Region's first official event.

Contact: June Kliesen (620) 738-4340

More Info: Pratt Region

Sponsor: KNPS

Barber County Wildflower Tour • Barber County

Saturday, May 7th, 2011 @ 8:30am

Medicine Lodge High School • 400 West Eldorado Avenue • Medicine Lodge, KS • Map

The Wildflower Tour begins at the High School in Medicine Lodge at 8:30 a.m. with registration. A continental breakfast is served and a short presentation is given to familiarize you with some of the flowers you will see on the tour. Then it is off to a morning wildflower identification site. After a guided tour of approximately 30 species it is off on a drive through the hills to a country park for a delicious barbecue lunch. A short drive through the scenic Gyp Hills guides us to a second identification stop with afternoon refreshments. The group will be back into town around 3:30 p.m. The fee for the Wildflower Tour is $15 per person, which covers the cost of the continental breakfast, lunch, afternoon refreshments, and transportation. Please remember that we require prepaid reservations for the Wildflower Tour. Payment is due before April 30, 2011. Send payment to Barber County Conservation District, 800 W. Third Ave Medicine Lodge, KS 67104.

Contact: Courtney Pilkington (620) 886-3721, ext. 3

More Info: Wildflower Tour

Kansas Sampler Festival • Leavenworth County

Saturday, May 7th, 2011 to Sunday, May 8th, 2011

Ray Miller Park • 4201 S 4th St. • Leavenworth, KS • Map

The festival is designed to provide the public a sample of what there is to see, do, hear, taste, buy, and learn in Kansas. Expect tent after tent of exhibitors placed in geographical regions promoting tourism attractions from every corner of the state. Food venders sell Kansas ethnic and specialty foods. Entertainment stages are placed around the grounds. There are little pockets of surprises such as a row of historical performers, someone on a stump asking Kansas questions, artists at work, a petting zoo, blacksmith demonstrations and who knows what else. Adult admission, $5, children 7-14, $3, children under 6, free, week-end pass-$8 adults; $4 children.

Contact: Keyta D. Kelly (913) 417-7575

More Info: Festival

Sponsor: Kansas Sampler Foundation

Blackbob Cave Woodland Hike on Private Land • Johnson County

Saturday, May 7th, 2011 @ 10-11:30am

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

Lead by Shirley Braunlich, this walk is a unique opportunity to visit a historically significant limestone cave and a large natural spring. The site was important to the Blackbob band of the Shawnee Indians during their time in Kansas. We will see some spring ephemerals among the maturing oak-hickory woodlot. We will carpool from the Overland Park Arboretum parking lot. Meet at the northwest corner of the parking lot at 9:30am.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

Spring Flora Kansas: Great Plains Plant Bazaar • Harvey County

Thursday, May 5th, 2011 to Saturday, May 14th, 2011 @ 8am

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

Vendors with local food products and herbs at the May 7 plant sale from 9 a.m. to noon. Neff Family Farm will sell herbs and tomato plants during the entire plant sale. Plant sale dates and times are listed below. Members of the Dyck Arboretum receive a 10% discount on all days and have first pick at the member sales. Everyone is invited to join the arboretum and come to the member sales. Want to volunteer and learn more about native plants? Check the schedule below.
May 5, noon - 7pm ; May 6, 8am - 7pm ; May 7, 8am - 4pm ; May 8, noon - 4pm ; May 9, 8am - 6pm ;
May 14 - 8am - noon

Contact: Scott Vogt (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Woodland Wildflower Walk along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Wednesday, May 4th, 2011 @ 6-dark

Felker Park • 2540 SW Gage Blvd • Topeka, KS • Map

A small group of members cleared Amur honeysuckle in March, 2010. More was cleared in January, 2011. Now we will revisit the site and look for wildflowers & other plants. See how the native wildflowers have increased after removal of honeysuckle. Meet at the Felker Park parking lot at the Tennis Courts off of Gage Blvd.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

KU School of Pharmacy Medicinal Garden Public Planting • Douglas County

Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011 @ 3-5pm

KU School of Pharmacy • 2010 Becker Drive • Lawrence, KS • Map

The public is invited to participate in the planting of a new educational medicinal garden designed by the faculty and staff of the KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program. The garden will have five themed beds of medicinal plants, about 70 species total. The garden will be on the south side of the building, at the School of Pharmacy patio area; please note that the building is on KU's west campus. The event will open with a short presentation about the new garden as well as KU’s first medicinal garden, planted by the School of Pharmacy in the 1920s.

Contact: Kirsten Bosnak 785-864-6267

Sponsor: KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale #2 • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 30th, 2011 @ 7am-1pm

City Market • 5th & Walnut • Kansas City, MO • Map

A large variety of native wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies. Held the last two Saturdays in April.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-779-6708

Flora Kansas Early Bird Plant Sale • Harvey County

Friday, Apr 29th, 2011 to Saturday, Apr 30th, 2011

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

April 29 (Members Only) and April 30 (Public Sale) - For the early bird gardeners, Friday from noon to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon will provide opportunity to get an early look at the hundreds of plants available at FloraKansas, the largest native and adaptable plant sale in Kansas. Become a member and enjoy a 10% discount on plants.

Contact: Arboretum (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Kansas Prairies: Diversity as a Guide in the Choice of Prairie Plants in Gardens • Douglas County

Monday, Apr 25th, 2011 @ 7:30pm-9:30

Trinity Lutheran fellowship hall • 1245 New Hampshire • Lawrence, KS • Map

All of JAS's programs and field trips are free and open to the public.

Contact: Joyce Wolf 785-887-6019

Sponsor: Jayhawk Audubon Society

Spring Board Meeting • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Apr 23rd, 2011 @ 12-3pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

KNPS members are welcome to attend the board meeting. There is a Wichita members region gathering after the board meeting. See events calendar for details.

Contact: KNPS

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale #1 • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 23rd, 2011 @ 7am-1pm

City Market • 5th & Walnut • Kansas City, MO • Map

A large variety of native wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies. Held the last two Saturdays in April.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-779-6708

Wichita Region Gathering • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Apr 23rd, 2011 @ 3:45pm

Great Plains Nature Center • 6232 E 29th Street North • Wichita, KS • Map

All members of Harper, Kingman, Sedgwick, and Sumner Counties are invited to the first gathering of the Wichita region. Anyone is welcome. The Great Plains Nature Center will host a meeting for all interested persons to discuss possible native plant walk locations for 2011 in the 4 county area. Afterward we will tour the trails of the GPNC through the prairie, woodland and wetlands areas. Dining and socializing to follow. Meet at 3:45 inside the GPNC. For more information contact Krista.

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316-258-6341

Nature Conservancy Earth Day Lecture • Sedgwick County

Thursday, Apr 21st, 2011 @ 1-2:30pm

Mid-America All Indian Center • 650 N. Seneca • Wichita, KS • Map

Join The Nature Conservancy Kansas Chapter's Director of Conservation Rob Manes for an update on the Conservancy's work across the state. Seating is limited, please RSVP by contacting Laura at lroseclawson@tnc.org or (785) 233-4400.

Contact: Laura Rose Clawson 785-233-4400

More Info: Lecture

Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy Kansas Chapter

Woodland Wildflower Walk • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Apr 16th, 2011 @ 10am-noon

F.L. Schlagle Library • 4051 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Bring your hiking shoes and hit the trail as we take a walk in the woods of Wyandotte County Lake Park in search of spring wildflowers. Meet at Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library to begin our search for Dutchman's breeches, spring beauty and other seasonal wonders. Please call 913.299.2384 to reserve a spot for this program.

Contact: Craig Hensley (913) 299-2384

Prairie Management at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Apr 16th, 2011

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Shunga Bioblitz • Shawnee County

Saturday, Apr 16th, 2011 @ 6am-11pm

Felker Park • 2540 SW Gage Blvd. • Topeka, KS • Map

A BioBlitz is a study where a group of volunteers conduct a one day intensive biological inventory, attempting to identify and record all species of living organisms in a given area. Some types of organisms we hope to inventory: Plants, Fungus, Insects, Spiders, Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish, Birds, and Mammals. You can participate for any amount of time on the day of the event.

The bioblitz will take place in a complex of parks along Shunga Creek in southwest Topeka. This Complex of parks includes Wells Park, Warren Nature Area, and Big Shunga Park. Shunga Creek runs through the south edge of the area. There is a wetland in the center of Warren Nature Area. Woodlands are mostly along the creek and grasslands are found north of the creek. The total area is estimated to be about 300 acres.The area is bordered by Gage Blvd on the west, the VA & KNI on the north, Macvicar on the east, and 29th Street on the south. Meet at the Felker Park Parking Lot, 2540 SW Gage Blvd.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785-806-6917

More Info: Shunga Bioblitz

Sponsor: Topeka Audubon Society

Kansas City Region Wildflower Tour • Johnson County

Sunday, Apr 10th, 2011 @ 1pm-3pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

Lynda Ochs and Ken O'Dell will lead the Kansas City Region of The Kansas Native Plant Society on a tour of the woodlands at the Overland Park Arboretum. A large wooded area is ripe with millions of spring woodland plants. Meet at the Visitors Center and we will leave at 1pm sharp. Both dirt and mulched path ways, some hills to climb.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

Spring Wildflower Workshop • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 9th, 2011

Roaring River State Park • 12716 Farm Road 2239 • Cassville, MO • Map

It is spring and the world is changing color every day. Join a park naturalist to uncover some of the beautiful colors of spring as you explore the wildflowers blooming at the park.

Contact: (417) 847-3742

Sponsor: Roaring River State Park

Hidden Valley Camp Work Day • Douglas County

Saturday, Apr 9th, 2011 @ 1-4pm

Hidden Valley Camp • 3420 W. Bob Billings Pkwy • Lawrence, KS • Map

Volunteers needed for our annual spring workday of cleanup, maintenance and planting. This is a 40-acre privately-owned urban wilderness camp for Douglas Co. Girl Scouts and other youth, operated by a local non- profit 501-c3. Activities will include prairie maintenance, native woods restoration (clearing out invasive honeysuckle shrubs and vines and planting natives), wood cutting, litter cleanup, and general maintenance of the camp, including campsite renovation, butterfly garden cleanup, trail maintenance, and more. Volunteers should wear durable clothing and totally enclosed shoes. Bring a water bottle, gloves, and tools if you can. Some gloves and tools provided (loppers, saws, shovels, wheelbarrows). Chainsaws and operators needed, and you can take home cut wood, especially hedge. Refreshments provided. Carpooling encouraged. Check in at the green garage anytime between 1-4pm.

Contact: Durand Reiber 785-865-4657

Sponsor: Friends of Hidden Valley

Early Arbor and Earth Days • Ellis County

Friday, Apr 8th, 2011 to Sunday, Apr 10th, 2011 @ 9am-5pm

Sternberg Museum • 3000 Sternberg Drive • Hays, KS • Map

Celebrate Arbor and Earth Days early this month. April 9-10th we will be planting the native trees and shrubs we ordered from the Kansas Forest Service out at the Sternberg Museum. We have nearly 1100 bare root plants to put into the ground. Holes will be pre-dug so it's as simple as putting them into the ground and covering back with soil. We will also cover them with wood mulch from the trees we have removed on site.
Schedule will be as follows- Friday: any time after 3 until 5ish; Saturday:9am to 5pm (or earlier if done); Sunday: noon to 5pm (if needed)
Feel free to bring the family out and share a day. You'd be amazed at how much fun kids have planting trees and knowing they are making a difference in the community. Please bring your gloves! We will supply the plants, shovels, water tanks, etc to complete the project.

Contact: James Leiker 785-623-8513

More Info: Outdoor Classroom

Sponsor: KSU WRAPS/Sternberg

Cedar Crest Woodland Wildflower Walk • Shawnee County

Wednesday, Apr 6th, 2011 @ 6pm

Cedar Crest • 1 SW Cedar Crest Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Explore the woods at MacLennan Park (Cedar Crest). These oak-hickory woods have an abundance of native woodland wildflowers. We will hike on the Kansas Trails Council’s newly built trails at MacLennan Park and scout for wildflowers. The first wildflowers of the season will be blooming: fawn lily (both the pink and the white species) and Dutchman's breeches. Meet at the parking lot on the west side of the governor mansion. Directions: From I-70, take the Fairlawn exit, go north to Cedar Crest and take a left, follow road to parking lot.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Workshop: Identification of the Bryophytes • Crawford County

Saturday, Apr 2nd, 2011 to Sunday, Apr 3rd, 2011 @ 8:30am-4pm

Pittsburg State University • Dept of Biology, Heckert/Wells Hall – Room 305 • Pittsburg, KS • Map

Bryophytes are Mosses, Liverworts and Hornworts. On Saturday, April 2, the workshop will focus on general characteristics used for the identification of bryophytes. Handouts with illustrations and keys will be provided. On Sunday, April 3, a field trip will allow participants to see a variety of mosses and some liverworts in native habitat (sturdy shoes are recommended for walking over rock). If anyone wants to bring specimens for identification, I will be happy to collect them and key them at a later date, then return the ids to the collector. All specimens will be accessioned into the herbarium. Be sure you provide date of collection, location, county, state, and most importantly, habitat. Registration is required. Contact Dr. Timme to register. A minimum of 5 participants is required to hold the class.

Contact: Dr. Stephen Timme 417-658-5473

Sponsor: T. M. Sperry Herbarium

Woodland Wildflower Workshop & Walk • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Apr 2nd, 2011 @ 2-3:30pm

F.L. Schlagle Library • 4051 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Join Craig Hensley, Lead Education Specialist of Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library, for a look at the kinds of spring wildflowers that adorn the woodlands of Wyandotte County. A PowerPoint presentation will be followed by a short walk in the woods to view early season wildflowers. Please call 913.299.2384 to reserve a spot for this program.

Contact: Craig Hensley (913) 299-2384

Last Dance of the Prairie Chicken • Shawnee County

Saturday, Apr 2nd, 2011 @ 6pm

Ramada Inn Downtown • 420 SE 6th St. • Topeka, KS • Map

Tim Barksdale, preeminent filmmaker, will present in person his latest film work in Kansas about the greater prairie chicken. Tim is a research associate of Cornell's Lab of Ornithology. This is the TAS Annual Meeting and Dinner. Cost is $25/person; preregistration required by March 28.

Contact: Janeen Walters 785-286-3330

More Info: Annual Meeting

Sponsor: Topeka Audubon Society

Pollinating Insects & Native Plants • Shawnee County

Thursday, Mar 31st, 2011 @ 6:30pm-7:30

Topeka & Shawnee County Library • Topeka, KS • Map

Presentation about pollinating insects and the plants that they use for food and habitat. Also being discussed will be ideas on what plants and methods to consider when planning and using native plants for pollinator habitats. Allen Casey is a plant biologist at the NRCS Plants Material Center in Manhattan. This is the first program of the KNPS Topeka membership region. The presentation will be held on the 2nd floor of the library.

Contact: Allen Casey 785-608-4166

More Info: Topeka Membership Region

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Prairie Management at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Mar 19th, 2011

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Woodland Wildflower Workshop • Wyandotte County

Wednesday, Mar 16th, 2011 @ 7-8:30pm

West Wyandotte Public Library • 1737 N. 82nd Street • Kansas City, KS • Map

Join Craig Hensley, Lead Education Specialist of Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library, for a powerpoint presentation on wildflowers of Wyandotte County. Please call 913.299.2384 to reserve a spot for this program.

Contact: Craig Hensley (913) 299-2384

Jefferson County Home, Lawn and Garden Show • Jefferson County

Saturday, Mar 12th, 2011 @ 9am-2pm

Valley Falls Elementary School • 700 Oak Street • Valley Falls, KS • Map

The show will feature a variety of vendors(native wildflower seeds), activities for children, concessions, and speakers on the topics of: Energy Efficiency; Growing Sedums Inside and Outside; Growing Herbs; and Cooking with Herbs. Free admission.
Visit the KNPS booth at the garden show. There will be a plant identification contest and we will have free copies of the "A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers & Grasses."

Contact: Jeri Clark 785-945-6741

Sponsor: Valley Falls Recreation Commission

Burnett's Mound - Skyline Park Workday • Shawnee County

Saturday, Mar 12th, 2011 @ 9am-12pm

Skyline Park • Topeka, KS • Map

We are continuing our project to remove trees and restore the native prairie on Burnett's Mound. The hilltop has been exposed and we are working our way down with chainsaws, loppers, and handsaws. We have work for everyone, from kids to adults. Bring gloves and any tools that you have and we will provide safety glasses, drinks and lunch for all. We will emphasize safety and will have a great time, while exposing Topeka's most prominent landmark. All are welcome and call if you have questions.

Contact: Brad Loveless 785.633.2118

Sponsor: Westar Energy

Kansas City Region Membership Meeting of the KNPS • Johnson County

Saturday, Mar 5th, 2011 @ 10am-12pm

Overland Park Arboretum • 8909 W. 179th. St. • Overland Park, KS • Map

First meeting of the Kansas City Region of the Kansas Native Plant Society. We will have a business meeting to talk about the direction and activities we should consider for the four counties, Leavenworth, Johnson, Miami and Wyandotte in the Kansas City Region.

Following the business portion Ken O'Dell will give a Powerpoint presentation on some of the native plants in this area. All members and visitors are welcome.

Contact: Ken O'Dell 913 837-5112

More Info: KNPS Member Regions

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Tree Tapping Native Trees • Missouri

Saturday, Feb 26th, 2011 @ 1-3pm

Burr Oak Woods & Nature Center • 1401 NW Park Rd • Blue Springs, MO • Map

The days are becoming warmer, but the nights are still cold, and the sap is flowing. You and your family will learn how to tap trees, collect sap, and make delicious syrup from native trees and berries too. Families with children of all ages are welcome. Call to register.

Contact: (816) 228-3766

More Info: Burr Oak Woods Nature Center

Sponsor: Missouri Department of Conservation

Kaw Valley Seeds Project Second Annual Fair • Douglas County

Saturday, Feb 26th, 2011 @ 10am-3pm

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Building 21 • 2110 Harper Street • Lawrence, KS • Map

The Seed Fair will include a seed exchange, exhibits, local producers, speakers throughout the day and a children's activity center. Admission is free. The first year's fair drew more than 300 visitors, and this year's is expected to more than double in size.
The Kaw Valley Seeds Project is a nonprofit whose mission is to create a Local Living Seed Reserve by fostering a network of people committed to growing and eating, sharing and bartering, buying and selling primary seed varieties of the Kansas River Valley. In addition, our goal is to educate the general public on the pleasures of growing their own food by teaching them how to save, store and plant seeds from their own gardens, and where to obtain organic and local seed lines.

Contact: Daniel Bentley 785-842-4418

More Info: Seed Fair

Sponsor: Kaw Valley Seeds Project

Prairie Restoration- West of Sternberg Museum • Ellis County

Saturday, Feb 26th, 2011 @ noon-5pm

Sternberg Museum • 3000 Sternberg Drive • Hays, KS • Map

Thanks to the volunteers on Kansas Day we were able to clear out over half of the non-desirable trees that needed removed for the Prairie Restoration/Outdoor Classroom creation west of the Sternberg Museum.
We will again have one last Prairie Restoration Day devoted to the removal of the non-desirable trees on Saturday, Feb 26th from noon-5pm. This time the focus will be on removing non-desirable hardwoods (mainly Hackberry, Siberian Elm, Honeylocust, Russian Olive and Mulberry) along the riparian corridor west of the Sternberg Museum. Volunteers are asked to bring equipment if able (especially chainsaws) but it is not necessary as we will have chainsaws, handsaws, and loppers on hand (please bring gloves). We will cut down, trim, and pile limbs for either chipping or building with. The event is come and go and any length of help is much appreciated. Refreshments will be provided.

Contact: James Leiker 785-623-8513

More Info: Outdoor Classroom

Sponsor: FHSU-KSU

Topeka Region Members Gathering • Shawnee County

Wednesday, Feb 23rd, 2011 @ 6pm

Classic Bean • 2125 SW Fairlawn Plaza Drive • Topeka, KS • Map

A gathering of KNPS members of the Topeka Region (Douglas, Franklin, Osage, and Shawnee Counties) will meet at the Classic Bean restaurant located at 21st and Fairlawn in Topeka. Those from outside the region are also welcome, as well as non-members. Come and get to know other KNPS members in the area. We will also brainstorm about having more events in the Topeka Region, and reflect on volunteer experience at the Topeka Garden Show. Come and eat, drink, and get to know others in the area. Lets also discuss having a future gathering in Lawrence.

Contact: Allen Casey 785-608-4166

More Info: Membership Regions

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Night Beauties: The Great Silk Moths • Barton County

Sunday, Feb 20th, 2011 @ 2:00pm

Kansas Wetlands Education Center • 592 NE K-156 Hwy • Great Bend, KS • Map

Dr. John Cody is considered the Audubon of moths. His paintings of moths have been exhibited at the American Museum of Natural History in New York and the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC. He holds many other awards and distinctions for his paintings as well. In this presentation, Dr. Cody will talk about the silk moths.

Contact: Curtis Wolf 877-243-9268

Sponsor: Kansas Wetlands Education Center

Topeka Garden Show • Shawnee County

Friday, Feb 18th, 2011 to Sunday, Feb 20th, 2011

Kansas Expocentre • 1 Expocentre Drive • Topeka, KS • Map

Visit the KNPS booth at the garden show. There will be a plant identification contest and we will have free copies of the "A Pocket Guide to Kansas Flint Hills Wildflowers & Grasses." Meet fellow members at the booth. Hours: Friday 10am-8pm; Saturday 10am-8pm; Sunday 11am-5pm.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Prairie Management at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Feb 12th, 2011

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Activities include brush cutting, controlled burning, seed collecting, and spraying noxious weeds. No special skills or tools needed. Contact Frank to help.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Lichen Glade Work Day • Missouri

Saturday, Jan 29th, 2011 @ 9am

Lichen Glade Conservation Area • Osceola, MO • Map

Join Missouri Master Naturalists to help restore this Nature Conservancy-owned glade, 9am (rain/snow date Saturday, February 5). Volunteers with an interest in glade restoration and a good pair of gloves are needed to cut oak sprouts on this 34-acre Missouri Natural Area 6 miles from Osceola on Hwy. B in St. Clair County. Supplies provided: herbicide, loppers, and water. A warm, hearty meal will be served to volunteers. RSVP required.

Contact: Larry Rizzo 816-655-6254 x246

More Info: Lichen Glade Conservation Area

Sponsor: Missouri Dept of Conservation

Prairie Restoration Day • Ellis County

Saturday, Jan 29th, 2011 @ 9am-3pm

Sternberg Museum • 3000 Sternberg Drive • Hays, KS • Map

Join us on Kansas's 150th birthday for a "take back the prairie day" at the Sternberg Museum. We will be removing non-desirable trees (mainly cedars and mulberry) along the riparian corridor west of the Museum. Volunteers are asked to bring equipment if able but it is not necessary as we will have chainsaws, handsaws, and loppers on hand. We will cut down, trim, and pile limbs for either chipping or building with. More information about the overall project is posted on the project's website.

Contact: James Leiker 785-623-8513

More Info: Project Info

Sponsor: FHSU-KSU

KNPS Winter Board Meeting • Lyon County

Saturday, Jan 22nd, 2011 @ 12-3pm

Emporia State University • 1200 Commercial Street • Emporia, KS • Map

The Board of Directors meet at Emporia State University in Science Hall, Room 159. Science Hall is on Merchant Street (K-99). Members are welcome to attend the board meeting. Science Hall contains the Schmidt Museum of Natural History. It contains a comprehensive collection of approximately 600 taxidermy mounts of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish from Kansas.

Contact: KNPS 785-806-6917

More Info: Schmidt Museum of Natural History

Sponsor: Emporia State University

Kansas Day at the Schlagle Library • Wyandotte County

Saturday, Jan 22nd, 2011

F.L. Schlagle Library • 4051 West Drive • Kansas City, KS • Map

Schedule of Events:
11am - Kansas Flora and Fauna, According to Lewis and Clark. Learn about the native flora and fauna that were discovered and documented in journals by Lewis and Clark on their journey through the state.
1pm - Animals of Kansas. Learn all about the animals that call KS home as well as animals that used to roam the state. You will also meet some "live" animals that are KS residents. We will play a fun bison game following the presentation.
3pm - Prehistoric Kansas Hike. Do we find dinosaur fossils in KS? Join us on the Stotler Cove Nature Trail as we investigate what KS looked like in prehistoric times. We'll also look for common fossils in the area, weather-permitting.
Please dress for the weather. Kansas-themed crafts will be available all day and our Lewis and Clark Discovery Trunk will be on display. The F.L. Schlagle Environmental Library is an environmental learning center located inside Wyandotte County Lake Park.

Contact: Jessica Lawrenz (913) 299-2384

Sponsor: Schlagle Environmental Library

Kaw Valley Eagles Day • Douglas County

Saturday, Jan 22nd, 2011 @ 11am-4pm

Free State High School • 4700 Overland Drive • Lawrence, KS • Map

Celebrate the return of the eagles and learn about the environment. Programs on area Bald eagles and other wildlife. Exhibitors will offer educational resources related to nature.

Contact: Edward Shaw (785) 843-7665

More Info: Eagle Days

Sponsor: Jayhawk Audubon Society

Environmental Education Workshop • Iowa

Friday, Jan 21st, 2011 to Sunday, Jan 23rd, 2011

Honey Creek Resort State Park • 12633 Resort Drive • Moravia, IA • Map

The 2011 Winter Solstice annual environmental education workshop titled "Sketching Iowa’s Heritage: How to Draw Children Back into Nature" includes keynotes Kris Howes-Vonstein and Jennifer Hancock of the Vinton Shellsburg Schools' Green Team. Other presentations include the Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre of West Liberty and an Iowa Wetlands pre-workshop. Contact Heather to register.

Contact: Heather Niec (319) 848-7019

More Info: Flyer

Sponsor: Iowa Conservation Education Coalition

The Eye of a Naturalist: Photography of Jerry Choate • Ellis County

Monday, Dec 20th, 2010 to Monday, Jan 31st, 2011

Sternberg Museum • 3000 Sternberg Drive • Hays, KS • Map

This memorial exhibition is displayed at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History in Hays, KS. Dr. Jerry Choate served Fort Hays State University for 38 years as a biology professor, director of the Museum of the High Plains, and later as director of Sternberg Museum of Natural History. This memorial exhibition, guest curated by his granddaughter, highlights the artistic talents Dr. Choate concealed behind his acclaimed teaching and research activities.

Contact: (877) 332-1165 or (877) 332-1165

Sponsor: Sternberg Museum of Natural History

Stephen Vitiello Exhibit • Saline County

Saturday, Dec 18th, 2010 to Sunday, Jan 30th, 2011

Salina Art Center • 242 S. Santa Fe • Salina, KS • Map

Composer, electronic musician, and sound artist Stephen Vitiello is well-known for his experimental approaches to the phenomenological aspects of sound. His field recordings of ubiquitous atmospheric noises are often mixed with electronics to create palpable soundscapes. In addition to photographs, scores, and an installation of sound works surveying the past five years of his practice, Vitiello will premiere a new piece commissioned by the Art Center, exploring the sonic nature of the remaining tall-grass prairies of Kansas.

Contact: Email (785) 827-1431

More Info: Vitiello

Sponsor: Salina Art Center

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Nov 20th, 2010

158th Rd & U Rd • Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Lawrence Hidden Valley Camp Native Woodland Restoration • Douglas County

Sunday, Nov 7th, 2010 @ 1-4pm

Lawrence Hidden Valley Camp • 3420 W. Bob Billings Pkwy • Lawrence, KS • Map

Join girl scouts, boy scouts, Friends members and others with our annual fall woodcutting and woods clearing event. Our main focus is popping out or cutting down the invasive honeysuckle shrubs that have totally invaded the woods. Extensive woods clearing using poppers, loppers, handsaws and chainsaws for those really big ones is needed. Others can treat stumps or haul brush. Other projects include transplanting saplings, cutting fire wood, stocking woodpiles, cleaning fire rings, mulching trees, wetland maintenance and much more; something for all ages. Some tools and gloves provided; bring your own if you can. Warming fires and refreshments provided by FHV: water, hot cocoa and s'mores! Wear durable clothing and enclosed shoes. Contact Durand for more information.

Contact: Durand Reiber 785-841-3567

More Info: Hidden Valley

Sponsor: Friends of Hidden Valley

Fall Workday: Clear Bush Honeysuckle along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Saturday, Nov 6th, 2010 @ 10am-noon

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Help clear bush honeysuckle from the woods along Shunga Creek. We are going to clear an area of the woods of the honeysuckle and other invasives to allow the native species to flourish. The natives are barely hanging on because of the honeysuckle. The area we will be working is adjacent to the bridge at Gage & Shunga Creek. Parking is at the Tennis Courts off of Gage Blvd. Wear boots, leather gloves, long sleeves and pants. Bring a lopper or pruning saw. If you don't want to cut, you can spray the cut stumps. The City of Topeka will be supplying herbicide to treat the cut stumps to ensure the honeysuckle doesn't regrow. Felker Park is a park in Topeka that is off Gage Blvd adjacent to Shunga Creek. Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend. Note, time has been changed to 10am.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Kansas City WildLands Annual Honeysuckle Battle • Missouri

Saturday, Nov 6th, 2010 @ 9am-noon

Kansas City, MO • Map

Join us for our biggest restoration event of the year as we battle the dread shrub honeysuckle that threatens Kansas City's beautiful wild places on several sites at once. This is a GREAT group workday! To register or for more information contact Linda.

Contact: Linda Lehrbaum (816) 561-1061, ext. 116

More Info:

Sponsor: Kansas City WildLands

Patch Burning Workshop • Oklahoma

Wednesday, Oct 20th, 2010 to Friday, Oct 22nd, 2010

Bartlesville, OK • Map

Theme: Opportunities and constraints in managing for heterogeneity on privately owned ranches.
Wednesday, October 20 - Hotel, Bartlesville. 1 to 5 p.m. presentations (focused on the theme). 5 to 7 p.m. social and posters (on any related topic).
Thursday, October 21 - Bus Tour of Tallgrass Prairie Preserve. Interpretation and Q&A led by Bob Hamilton. Discussion/presentation by adjacent ranchers about their first experiences with leaving portions of a pasture unburned-effects on cattle performance and wildlife. 5 p.m. Social event and barbeque at the Preserve Headquarters.
Friday, October 22 - Hotel, Bartlesville. Concurrent sessions 8 tonoon: (1) Rancher focus group with OSU facilitator to assess rancher attitudes and perceptions about heterogeneity management; (2) Continued participant presentations and/or round-robin discussion of PBWG issues.
Note: Invited ranchers will be able to apply for travel scholarships through OSU to attend the meeting.

Contact: Bob Hamilton 918-287-4803

Sponsor: Oklahoma Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Oct 16th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Prairie Harvest Festival and Barn Dance • Chase County

Saturday, Oct 16th, 2010 @ 10am-5pm

Strong City, KS • Map

At the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Come out for the Prairie Harvest Festival and watch historic demonstrations or take a hayrack ride through the prairie. Enjoy an old-fashioned harvest festival as living history characters get ready for winter. Cider making, hay rack rides, live music, blacksmithing, and pumpkin carving from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Barn dance from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. with the Tallgrass Express String Band. Refreshments served.

Contact: TAPR (620) 273–8494

Prairie Seed Collecting at Grant Bradbury • Shawnee County

Saturday, Oct 16th, 2010 @ 1-3pm

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed to help collect prairie wildflower and grass seed at Grant-Bradbury Prairie Park for a wildlife restoration area at Shunga Park. We will be working with the city to restore an old brome/fescue field to a diverse planting of native wildflowers and grasses. Volunteers should wear sturdy footwear and long pants. Bring a plastic pail or paper sack for collecting seeds. No experience is necessary. All ages can help. Bottled water will be supplied.
Location: Grant-Bradbury Park
Directions: Take Topeka Blvd south to the University Blvd intersection (stoplight), go right. Take University west about half a mile - when the road curves south, you are at the driveway to the park gate. There is a small white building at the driveway. The southeast corner of the park is at SW 65th St & SW Westview Rd, Topeka, KS.
Sponsored by Topeka Audubon, KNPS, and Topeka Parks and Recreation
Please contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785-806-6917

Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie workday • Wabaunsee County

Saturday, Oct 16th, 2010 @ 9am-5pm

Mt Mitchell Lane • Wamego, KS • Map

Enjoy a fall day at historic Mt. Mitchell working on the park's development. There are tasks for all skill and age levels,from gathering prairie seeds to brush clearing. See Details link for directions.

Contact: Michael Stubbs 785-256-6228

More Info: Mt Mitchell Map

Sponsor: Mount Mitchell Prairie Guards Sponsor

Native Medicinal Plant Walk • Johnson County

Sunday, Oct 10th, 2010 @ 1-3pm

26235 West 135th Street • Olathe, KS • Map

Come to The Prairie Center for a FREE NATIVE MEDICINAL PLANT WALK. The Prairie Center is located at 26235 West 135th Street, Olathe, KS. PLANT ECOLOGIST AND MASTER HERBALIST Frank Norman will lead a walk identifying medicinal and edible plants found along the way. The Prairie Center is a 300-acre tallgrass preserve and education site with trails winding through remnant and reestablished prairie and riparian woodlands. Bring water, a hat, and walking shoes. No reservations are needed.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

KLT Member Appreciation Reception • Douglas County

Sunday, Oct 3rd, 2010 @ 4-6:30pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

As we celebrate our 20th year, KLT wants to show our appreciation to all of the members of KLT who have been our loyal partners and supporters, making it possible for KLT to protect over 11,000 acres of the beautiful lands of Kansas! The reception features Don Worster's talk, "America's Breadbasket and Our Changing Climate". We'll also provide wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Awards will be given to volunteers, and an auction of the Baby Elephant Folio edition of Audubon's Birds of North America will also take place. A free packet of KLT notecards will be given to those who renew membership at this event. New members are also welcome - one-year dues of $50 collected at the door. This event will take place at the Unitarian Fellowship of Lawrence, 1263 N 1100 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66044. Please RSVP to Carol at 785-749-3297 or to info@klt.org.

Contact: Carol Huettner 785-749-3297

Sponsor: Kansas Land Trust

Facing the Storm: Story of the American Bison • Johnson County

Saturday, Oct 2nd, 2010 @ 5-7pm

Overland Park, KS • Map

Location: Glenwood Arts Theatre, 9575 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS.
Should bison be be restored to large tracts of the Great Plains, including western Kansas? The question is addressed in the new feature film, FACING THE STORM: STORY OF THE AMERICAN BISON -- the comprehensive account of our tempestuous relationship with the iconic symbol of wild America. The film recounts the inextricable relationship of the Plains Indians with the animal, and the harrowing near-destruction of the species in the late nineteenth century. Finally, the film explores the epic vision -- and monumental obstacles -- to restore bison to immense tracts of the Great Plains. FACING THE STORM shows us that the American bison is not just an icon of a lost world, but may very well show us the path to the future.
View Trailers on the High Plains Films Youtube Channel - Trailer #1 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhB5pAbQWAQ Trailer #2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RqI-pD9zwY

Contact: Dru Carr (406)546-4447

More Info:

Sponsor: High Plains Films

Russell County Fall Wildflower Tour • Russell County

Sponsor: The Land Insitute

Semi-annual KU Medicinal Garden Tour and Prairie Walk • Douglas County

Saturday, Sep 18th, 2010 @ 10am

Lawrence, KS • Map

Join Kelly Kindscher, one of the region’s leading ethnobotanists, to learn more about Kansas/Great Plains native medicinal plants and see fall-season flowering at the University of Kansas Native Medicinal Plant Research Garden and nearby Rockefeller Prairie. Kelly is head of the botany side of KU’s Native Medicinal Plant Research Program. The program hosts the garden/prairie tour twice a year, in spring and fall.

Contact: Kirsten Bosnak 785-864-6267

More Info:

Sponsor: KU Native Medicinal Plant Research Program Sponsor

KNPS 32nd Annual Wildflower Weekend • Barton County

Friday, Sep 17th, 2010 to Sunday, Sep 19th, 2010

Great Bend, KS • Map

The theme of this year’s meeting is “Wetlands, Wildflowers, and Wildlife.” The meeting will be a marvelous opportunity to visit and learn about two of the most significant wetland complexes in all of North America at Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. Visits to other prairies of interest also are planned. Please contact KNPS for more information.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

More Info:

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Tallgrass Prairie Wildflower Weekend • Chase County

Saturday, Sep 11th, 2010 to Sunday, Sep 12th, 2010 @ 10am-4pm

Strong City, KS • Map

Join the National Park Staff and the Kansas Native Plant Society in celebrating the prairie. Activities & interactive displays will include: Wool dyeing with native plants, Handmade paper from prairie fibers, Jelly making with wild plums & rose hips, Edible plants of the prairie, Insects of the prairie, Aromatic plants of the prairie, Wildflower Identification Contest, Grass Identification contest, Guided prairie walks, Medicinal plant walks, Bus tours of the prairie, Plant Identification slide show. Bring the family; the weekend will be educational and enjoyable for all ages.

Contact: TPNP (620) 273-8494

More Info:

Wilson County Wildflower Tour • Wilson County

Saturday, Sep 11th, 2010 @ 8:30am-2:00pm

Neodesha, KS • Map

Join us in September as we enjoy the blooming wildflowers of the fall! Come face to face with nature's wonders in southeast Kansas. Tucked into the beautiful Osage Cuestas (rolling hills), the landscape is sculpted in rich woodlands and winding rivers. The day starts off with coffee and home baked pastries at Neodesha High School, 1001 N 8th, Neodesha. Next, we depart to the wildflower site where knowledgeable group leaders assist in plant id, historical interpretations, etc. A picnic lunch with cool refreshments will be served. Cost is $10 which includes breakfast, lunch, lanyard & bottled water and transportation to the site. Pre-registration required by Sept 9th.

Contact: Gina Thompson 620-378-2866

More Info:

Sponsor: Wilson County Conservation District & Auxiliary

Purple Loosestrife Eradication • Douglas County

Saturday, Sep 11th, 2010 @ 9am-12pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Come help the Grassland Heritage Foundation and our partners eradicate purple loosestrife in Lawrence (or at least get rid of some of it).
Saturday, Sept. 11, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the intersection of Atchison Ave. and Clinton Pkwy.
We’ll be digging and disposing of the purple loosestrife that is growing in the drainage area on the southwest corner of the intersection. Wear sturdy shoes and bring your shovels, pruning tools, and gloves. We’ll supply everything else.
There is parking available on Atchison Ave. although we strongly recommend that you carpool with others as the parking is in a residential area. Also, please be sure to use the available sidewalks rather than walking on the neighbors’ property.
Purple loosestrife has recently been sold as an ornamental plant, however, it has become a dangerous invasive which overtakes native plants in wetland areas. The Kansas Department of Ag. quarantined it in January, 2002. GHF and others are working to help the city of Lawrence eliminate at least some of the plants that are growing on city property.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

Flora Kansas: Great Plains Plant Bazaar • Harvey County

Thursday, Sep 9th, 2010 to Sunday, Sep 12th, 2010 @ daily

Dyck Arboretum • Hesston, KS • Map

This plant sale features hard-to-find native perennials plus classes and tours. Kansas Native Plant Society co-sponsors Dyck Arboretum events. Ask about member's only sale dates; 10% members discount on all days. Admission charge is by donation.

Contact: Arboretum (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Fall Wildflower Tour at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • McPherson County

Saturday, Sep 4th, 2010 @ 10am

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • Canton, KS • Map

Board the tram for a tour of the prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. There is also a self guided walking tour with flowers flagged. The Refuge is located 6 miles north of Canton, KS.

Contact: (620)-628-4455

Prairie Seed Harvesting at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Chase County

Thursday, Sep 2nd, 2010 @ 9am-noon

Strong City, KS • Map

Help staff harvest prairie seeds. The seeds will be used to restore bottomland prairie areas at the preserve.

Contact: TAPR (620) 273–8494

Riley County Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Tuesday, Aug 31st, 2010 @ 6:30-sundown

Manhattan, KS • Map

Riley Co. Conservation Dist. will host a Wildflower Walk to learn about wildflowers and pollinators native to Riley County. The tour will be held at the Haines Family Ranch northwest of Manhattan in a pasture. Come see what effects a Patch Burn grazing system has on wildlife habitat. We will also discuss native pollinator habitat. Directions (From Manhattan-5.3 miles NW of Manhattan on Hwy 24 to W 71st Ave (by RB Outpost), or 3.3 miles E/SE of the Hwy 24/77 interchange). Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and long pants – this is a walking pasture tour over uneven ground. Please plan accordingly, no restroom will be available and pets will not be allowed. Please RSVP to Bob Lienemann at the Riley Co Conservation Dist. 785-537-8764 ext. 5. Please let us know if you have any special needs.

Contact: Bob Lienemann 785-537-8764 Ext 5

Sponsor: Riley County Conservation District

Tuttle Creek Lake Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Saturday, Aug 28th, 2010 @ 130-330pm

Tuttle Creek Lake Visitor’s Center • 5020 Tuttle Creek Blvd • Manhattan, KS • Map

Explore Native Tallgrass Prairie at Tuttle Creek Lake, 1:30-3pm. Kansas Native Plant Society volunteers: Diane Barker, Nancy Goulden, and Karen Hummel will lead the walk near the Visitor Center at the lake. Rain date is August 29.

Contact: Paul Weidhaas 785-539-8511

Sponsor: Tuttle Creek Lake

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies (Tour #3) • Harvey County

Wednesday, Aug 25th, 2010 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Discover the prairies of South Central Kansas with prairie enthusiast, Brad Guhr, Dyck Arboretum Education Coordinator. Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. Leave the Dyck Arboretum at 4pm and return by twilight. All ages are welcome. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Call 620-327-8127 to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: Brad Guhr (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Aug 21st, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Tallgrass Rangeland Management Class • Morris County

Tuesday, Aug 17th, 2010 to Thursday, Aug 19th, 2010 @ 8am to 3pm

Council Grove, KS • Map

At White Memorial Camp near Council Grove. The theme is Principles of Rangeland Management - Grass and Animal Ecology in Kansas, Reaching Harmony…profit and environment. The focus will be the balance between making a sustainable living while keeping a sustainable environment. The schools cost $250 per person, but scholarships are available to most ranchers interested in attending reducing the fee to $100 per person. Agency staffs may qualify for a $100 scholarship. Students can also receive a $150 scholarship. For more information about scholarships and the schools go to the KGLC website.

Contact: Tim Christian 620-241-3636

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies (Tour #2) • Harvey County

Wednesday, Aug 11th, 2010 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Discover the prairies of South Central Kansas with prairie enthusiast, Brad Guhr, Dyck Arboretum Education Coordinator. Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. Leave the Dyck Arboretum at 4pm and return by twilight. All ages are welcome. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Call 620-327-8127 to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: Brad Guhr (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Summer Wildflower Walk at Prairie State Park • Missouri

Saturday, Aug 7th, 2010 @ 10am-12pm

Prairie State Park • Lamar, MO • Map

Visit Missouri’s largest remaining tallgrass prairie, at nearly 4,000 acres. Hike on the prairie with a naturalist to discover some of the summer bloomers of the season. Find out what makes a prairie so beautiful in the summer and what some of the plants were once used for. This hike will be about a mile or less. Please bring comfortable hiking shoes and be prepared for the weather. Meet at the visitor center, 10am. This event is sponsored by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Contact: PSP (417) 843-6711

Sponsor: Prairie State Park

22nd North American Prairie Conference • Iowa

Sunday, Aug 1st, 2010 to Thursday, Aug 5th, 2010

Cedar Falls, IA • Map

The University of Northern Iowa will host the 22nd Biennial NAPC. This year's conference is themed Restoring a National Treasure.

Contact: Ryan Welch (319) 273-3828

Sponsor: North American Prairie Conference

Cheyenne Bottoms Butterfly Quest • Barton County

Saturday, Jul 31st, 2010 @ 8:30am-12:30pm

Great Bend, KS • Map

Take part in a butterfly count and learn how to identify our local butterfly species at the Cheyenne Bottoms Butterfly Quest from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on July 31 at the KWEC. Led by Pam Martin, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks environmental educator, participants will review butterfly species likely to be found in the area, then leave to stalk the elusive creatures for an official count. Maps and data sheets will be provided. There is a maximum limit of 30 people, with a preregistration deadline of July 28. Call KWEC at 1-877-243-9268 to reserve a spot or for more information. KWEC is located at 592 NE K-156 Highway.

Contact: Pam Martin 1-877-243-9268

Sponsor: Kansas Wetlands Education Center

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies (Tour #1) • Harvey County

Wednesday, Jul 28th, 2010 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Discover the prairies of South Central Kansas with prairie enthusiast, Brad Guhr, Dyck Arboretum Education Coordinator. Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. Leave the Dyck Arboretum at 4pm and return by twilight. All ages are welcome. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Call 620-327-8127 to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: Brad Guhr (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jul 17th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Dedication of Bank Swallow Bend Wildlife Area • Iowa

Saturday, Jul 17th, 2010 @ 11am

Des Moines, IA • Map

The public is invited to help celebrate protection of a new 542-acre expanse of wetland, grassland, riverine area just south of Des Moines. Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and Pheasants Forever will join the Warren County Conservation Board for the ribbon cutting.

Contact: WCCB (515) 961-6169

Sponsor: Warren County Conservation Board

Wildflower Workshop @ Quivira NWR • Stafford County

Saturday, Jul 17th, 2010 @ 8:30am-12:30pm

Stafford, KS • Map

A Beginning Wildflower Workshop will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on July 17 at QNWR. Visitor Services Specialist Barry Jones will provide information about local wildflowers and lead a foray into the wilds of Quivira to identify several plant species. There is a maximum limit of 20 people, with a preregistration deadline of July 15. Call the refuge at 620-486-2393 to reserve a spot or for more information.

Contact: Barry Jones 620-486-2393

Sponsor: Quivira National Wildlife Refuge

Manhattan NABA Butterfly Count • Riley County

Wednesday, Jul 14th, 2010 @ 8am-2:30pm

Manhattan, KS • Map

Register by July 12 or for more information, please call 785-539-8761. Dress appropriately and bring a sack lunch and binoculars and camera (if you have them). Volunteers around North America select a count area 15 miles in diameter and conduct a one-day census of all butterflies observed within that circle. The count program is intended to promote interest in butterflies and provide results useful for scientific monitoring of this beautiful and fascinating group of insects. While knowledge of butterflies is a plus, it is not necessary. Manhattan Plant Materials Center (PMC), 3800 South 20th Street, Manhattan, KS 66502 Directions: From Manhattan: From Ft. Riley Blvd. or Tuttle Creek Blvd. (east side of Manhattan by Manhattan Town Center Mall) cross the Kansas River Bridge. Immediately after crossing the bridge, turn right on Riley Co. 901 – McDowell Creek Road, travel 6.0 miles, turn right on Riley Co. 424. Follow Riley Co. 424, 3 miles north and 1 mile west to the PMC. From I-70: Travelers on I-70 should exit 307-McDowell Creek Road Interchange. Eastbound travelers should turn left, westbound travelers should turn right on Riley Co. 901 – McDowell Creek Road, travel 3.6 miles to west 40th Avenue, turn left and travel 3 miles north to PMC. The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Contact: Allen Casey 785-539-8761

Sponsor: USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center Sponsor

KNPS Summer Board Meeting & Outing • Douglas County

Saturday, Jul 10th, 2010 @ 12-3pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

The meeting will be in Higuchi Hall, 2101 Constant Avenue. The building is located on the West Campus of the University of Kansas. See link for a map. We will botanize at the Baker Wetlands from 9:30-11:30am. The Board meeting will following the outing.Non-Board Members may want to bring their own lunch to eat prior to the Board Meeting. The Board meeting runs from 12-3pm. After our meeting we will visit the cool shade of the Baldwin Woods. Meet at Higuchi Hall at 3pm if you plan to attend this outing. Please contact KNPS for more information.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

More Info:

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Tuttle Creek Lake Prairie Walk • Riley County

Saturday, Jul 10th, 2010 @ 1:30-3:30pm

Manhattan, KS • Map

Explore Native Tallgrass Prairie at Tuttle Creek Lake, 1:30-3pm. Kansas Native Plant Society volunteers: Diane Barker, Nancy Goulden, and Karen Hummel will lead the walk near the Visitor Center at the lake. Rain date is July 11.

Contact: Park Ranger Paul Weidhaas (785) 539-8511

Sponsor: USACE Tuttle Creek Lake

Butterfly Identification Workshop @ Konza Prairie • Riley County

Thursday, Jul 8th, 2010 @ 9:00am-10:30am

Manhattan, KS • Map

Learn butterfly identification. Betsy Betros, Author of "A photographic Field Guide to the Butterflies of the Kansas City Area" and Dr. Valerie Wright, Environmental Educator at Konza Prairie will be leading the workshop. Register by July 6 by contacting Allen Casey. Directions to Konza Prairie Biological Station: From Manhattan: From Ft. Riley Blvd. or Tuttle Creek Blvd. (east side of Manhattan by Manhattan Town Center Mall) cross the Kansas River Bridge. Immediately after crossing the bridge, turn right on Riley Co. 901 – McDowell Creek Road, travel 6.5 miles, turn left on Konza Prairie Lane to headquarters. From I-70: Travelers on I-70 should exit 307-McDowell Creek Road Interchange. Eastbound travelers should turn left, westbound travelers should turn right on Riley Co. 901 – McDowell Creek Road, travel approximately 4.5 miles, turn right on Konza Prairie Lane to headquarters.

Contact: Allen Casey 785-539-8761

Sponsor: USDA-NRCS Plant Materials Center

Mid/Short-Grass Rangeland Management Class • Scott County

Tuesday, Jul 6th, 2010 to Thursday, Jul 8th, 2010 @ 8am to 3pm

Camp Lakeside • Scott, KS • Map

At TNC’s Smoky Hill Ranch with lodging and meals at Camp Lakeside, Lake Scott. The theme is Principles of Rangeland Management - Grass and Animal Ecology in Kansas, Reaching Harmony…profit and environment. The focus will be the balance between making a sustainable living while keeping a sustainable environment.
The schools cost $250 per person, but scholarships are available to most ranchers interested in attending reducing the fee to $100 per person. Agency staffs may qualify for a $100 scholarship. Students can also receive a $150 scholarship. For more information about scholarships and the schools go to the KGLC website.

Contact: Tim Christian 620-241-3636

Flint Hills NABA Butterfly Count • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 26th, 2010 @ 9am-4pm

Strong City, KS • Map

This is the Second Annual Marvin Schwilling NABA Butterfly Count held in the Flint Hills tallgrass prairie ecosystem. The epicenter of the 3 mile count circle is the historic ranch headquarters' of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.

Contact: Paula Matile 620-273-8556

More Info:

Sponsor: NPS & TNC

Grant-Bradbury Prairie Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Jun 24th, 2010 @ 6:30pm-dark

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Join KNPS for the 8th Annual Grant Bradbury prairie walk. This 80-acre pristine tallgrass prairie contains over 300 plant species. On this tour, you will learn and see the plants and animals of the prairie. Bring a camera because the spring wildflowers will be at their peak. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes. Children are encouraged to come. Jeff Hansen, wildflower expert, will lead the tour. Directions: Take Topeka Blvd south to the University Blvd intersection (stoplight), take a right. Take University west about half a mile - when the road curves south, you are at the driveway to the park gate. There is a small building at the driveway. Contact Jeff if you plan to attend.

Contact: Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917

Akin Prairie Wildflower Walk • Douglas County

Wednesday, Jun 23rd, 2010 @ 7pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Led by Kelly Kindscher. The wildflower walk will take place at the very first conservation easement established in the state of Kansas. The Akin Prairie provides a wonderful setting to identify prairie grasses and wildflowers and to hear the interesting lore surrounding them. This splendid 16-acre tract of native prairie has been protected as a memorial to Dorothy Akin and her love of colorful prairie wildflowers. This walk is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to attend. Directions: head two miles east of Lawrence on K-10, take the E 1900 Rd exit (Douglas Co. 1057), go south two miles, and take a right (west) on N 1150 Road. Signs will guide the way from K-10.

Contact: Jason Fizell (785) 749-3297

Sponsor: Kansas Land Trust

Fourth Biennial Coblentz Prairie Foray • Douglas County

Sunday, Jun 20th, 2010 @ 1pm

Stull, KS • Map

This glaciated tallgrass prairie offers diverse native plants as well as uncommon birds like Henslow's Sparrows, notable insects like Golden Byssus skippers, and interesting rocks like Sioux Quartzite. This may be the furthest south the glaciers advanced in Kansas, and large pink and red Sioux Quartzite boulders, glacial erratics, can be found in several areas. Among the 270 recorded plant species, we hope to see the federally protected Mead’s milkweed, Prairie phlox, Starry Catchfly, Topeka Purple-coneflower, and Tall Cinquefoil! Other plants of interest include the Adder’s Tongue Fern --one of the few prairie ferns and Cluster fescue (Festuca paradoxa) --a fescue rarely found in Kansas. Kansas Native Plant Society and Grassland Heritage Foundation co-sponsor this event. Co-leaders: Ken Lassman, author of Wild Douglas County, Jeff Hansen, KNPS and GHF Board Member and Shirley Braunlich, KNPS Board Member. Coblentz Prairie is part of the Clinton Wildlife area 40-minutes west of Lawrence, KS in west-central Douglas County at the intersection of E 100 Road and North 1150th Road. Park on the access road one-mile west of the intersection, E 1 Rd.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jun 19th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Birds, Butterflies and Breakfast • Cowley County

Saturday, Jun 19th, 2010 @ 8am

Arkansas City, KS • Map

at Chaplin Nature Center. We’ll enjoy breakfast on the porch followed by sightings of birds, butterflies, and wildflowers. Reservations needed by June 17. Chaplin Nature Center is located in Arkansas City, KS.

Contact: CNC (620) 442-4133

Sponsor: Chaplin Nature Center

Ogg Road Prairie in Shawnee Mission Park • Johnson County

Thursday, Jun 17th, 2010 @ 6:30pm-dark

Lenexa, KS • Map

This remnant prairie has a diverse array of plants. Rachel Snyder cataloged plants at this location many years ago. This is a Kansas City Wildlands site. Many work days have been spent removing the encroachment of woody vegetation on this prairie. Join Jeff Hansen and Sue Holcomb as we re-survey the area for plant life following deer reduction efforts this past winter. Please RSVP Sue if you plan to attend. This event was rescheduled from June 16th because of heavy rain.

Contact: Sue Holcomb 913-449-3621

More Info:

Sponsor: Grassland Heritage Foundation

Name Origins and Useful Plant Properties of Spring Wildflowers • Sedgwick County

Monday, Jun 14th, 2010 to Thursday, Jun 17th, 2010 @ 8am-12pm

Wichita, KS • Map

Our appreciation for summer wildflowers on the prairie will be enriched when we find that a plant's name reveals clue to its history. Features of the plants provide benefits to the plant as well as to the visitor. Available for tuition for 1 -2 hours credit. Free if you are over 60.

Contact: Joyce Lent, Naturalist GPNC 316-683-5499 x210

More Info:

Sponsor: Emporia State University

Presentation: Gardening with Native Plants • Shawnee County

Monday, Jun 14th, 2010 @ 10am

Topeka, KS • Map

Presentation on gardening with KANSAS native plants by Jeff Hansen, Kansas Native Plant Society. Learn about some of the plants that work well in a landscape and the benefits of using them. Plants will be available for purchase at the market. This presentation is part of the Monday Farmers Market at the Library. Monday Farmers Market offers the highest quality produce that is locally grown, along with buffalo meat, bedding plants, cut flowers, nuts, native Kansas plants and fresh herbs. Mondays through October 4, 2010, 7:30am to 11:30am, Topeka and Shawnee County Library, Library parking lot, 10th & Garfield

Contact: Bonnie Cuevas 785-580-4495

Sponsor: Topeka & Shawnee County Public LIbrary

5th Annual Symphony in the Flint Hills • Chase County

Saturday, Jun 12th, 2010

Bazaar, KS • Map

5th Annual Symphony in the Flint Hills will be held deep in the heart of the Flint Hills. Get ready for one of the most beautiful sites on the planet and the adventure of getting there. Enjoy this unique pairing of music and prairie! The vision of this concert is to heighten appreciation and knowledge of the Flint Hills as the last major intact tallgrass prairie on the North American continent and will help focus attention on the Flint Hills of Kansas as a national treasure belonging to all Kansans and as a destination for people beyond our borders. Wildflower tours will be lead by Kansas Native Plant Society volunteers. Featured is an outdoor concert performed by the Kansas City Symphony

Contact: Emily (620) 273-8955

Sponsor: Symphony in the Flint Hills

Mount Mitchell - Mitchell Homestead Celebration • Wabaunsee County

Saturday, Jun 12th, 2010 @ 10am-4pm

Wamego, KS • Map

A day to celebrate history, nature, art and community at the historic Mitchell Farmstead, a recognized site of the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom Program commemorating the Underground Railroad.

Contact: Michael Stubbs 785-765-4655

More Info:

Sponsor: Mount Mitchell Prairie Guards

Cowley County Wildflower Tour • Cowley County

Saturday, Jun 12th, 2010 @ 8:30am-2:30pm

Winfield, KS • Map

Come join us as we explore the pastures on the Snyder Ranch in eastern Cowley County. Native pastures provide a unique opportunity to enjoy native plants in their best possible environment. We will provide lunch and transportation to the ranch for a fee of $5 per person. This will be our second year at the Snyder Ranch which is a privately owned cattle ranch managed by the third generation of the family. Please come join us for a fantastic tour led by Conservation District, NRCS, KNPS, Farm Bureau and Southwestern College staff.

Contact: Wanda Jackson 620-221-1850 ext 3

Jackson Street Bioretention Cell Walking Tour • Shawnee County

Thursday, Jun 10th, 2010 @ 6:30pm-dusk

8th Street & Jackson Street • Topeka, KS • Map

Meet at 8th and Jackson, downtown Topeka, for a walking tour of the bioretention cells between 5th and 8th streets on Jackson. We'll discuss native plants, bioretention cells, rain gardens, and pollution control. This project won the 2006 KNPS Rachel Snyder Landscape Award. Native Plants will be available for purchase after the walk. Walk leaders will be Vivien Smith, City of Topeka and Jeff Hansen, Kansas Native Plant Society.

Contact: Vivien Smith 785-368-3122

Sponsor: City of Topeka Water Pollution Control

Event Report

Jackson Street Bioretention Cell Walking Tour

10 people attended the event.

Weed ID Field Day • Phillips County

Thursday, Jun 10th, 2010 @ 9am

Kirwin, KS • Map

Please bring weeds that you want identified and bring questions that you want answered. Everyone is Welcome to attend free of charge. We will spend some time in the field. Dress appropriately and bring water and bug spray. Location: Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge, 702 E. Xavier Rd, Visitors Center. Presenters: Jim Nechols, K-State Entomology Professor; Curt Thompson and Dallas Peterson, K-State Research and Extension Weed Management Specialist. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Contact: Teresa Webb 785-425-6647

More Info:

Sponsor: Solomon Valley RC&D

Friends of Konza Prairie Annual Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Sunday, Jun 6th, 2010 @ 6:30pm-sunset

Manhattan, KS • Map

Join us for a 2-mile guided hike of Butterfly Hill Trail, an area generally not open to the public. At the peak of wildflower season, visitors often view more than 50 species of native tallgrass prairie plants blooming along the trail. The walk will be co-lead by Dr. Valerie Wright, Kansas Native Plant Society Board Member, and Konza Docents. There is a charge of $7 for those who are not Friends of Konza Prairie members. RSVP required; telephone reservations will be taken beginning May 1, (785) 587-0441.

Contact: Dr. Valerie Wright 785/587-0441

Sponsor: Friends of Konza Prairie

Spring Wildflower Tour at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • McPherson County

Saturday, Jun 5th, 2010 @ 10am

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • Canton, KS • Map

Board the tram for a tour of the prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. There is also a self guided walking tour with flowers flagged. The Refuge is located 6 miles north of Canton, KS.

Contact: (620)-628-4455

Coffey County Native Plant Tour • Coffey County

Saturday, Jun 5th, 2010 @ 10am-1pm

New Strawn, KS • Map

Tour participants should plan to meet at 10am at Wolf Creek’s Black Bear Bosin Shelterhouse. David Kraft, Rangeland Management Specialist with NRCS, will kick off the tour with a 30min. presentation on grassland ecology and management. Transportation will then be provided from the shelterhouse to the tour site. Jim Minnerath with the UFWS will lead participants through the identification and use of more than 50 native plant species. Complimentary lunch is provided. RSVP to Kristi Vogts by phone (620)364-2182 by June 2nd 2010.

Contact: Kristi Vogts 620-364-2182

Sponsor: Coffey County Conservation District

Russell County Wildflower Tour • Russell County

Saturday, Jun 5th, 2010 @ 9am-12pm

Dorrance, KS • Map

This spring the BCMSHR WRAPS, in conjunction with Dubuque Land and Cattle Co., will host a wildflower tour at Dubuque Land and Cattle located in SE Russell County. Dubuque is home to hundreds of native wildflowers and grasses and encompasses over 1600 acres of rangeland, CRP, and cropland. The topography of the area is made of gently rolling hills making biodiversity of plants exceptional for a wildflower tour. This tour will provide the public with a chance to view the native flora of the area. It is great way to learn about the history of the landscape, the benefits of native plants, their relationship to man both past and present and also provides a chance to learn which wildflowers can be used in a home landscape; reducing both water consumption and maintenance costs. Local experts will guide and identify all wildflowers and grasses present on the landscape. The event is come and go from 9 am to noon with drinks provided. There will be handouts on wildflowers, free native wildflower seed to take home, and other literature on plants! The event will take place rain or shine.

Contact: Stacie Minson 785-814-7100

More Info:

Sponsor: BCMSHR WRAPS

Jerry Smith Park Trail Dedication and Interpretive Hike • Missouri

Saturday, Jun 5th, 2010 @ 2pm

Kansas City, MO • Map

All MPF members and supporters are invited to the dedication of a hiking trail in this original remnant prairie within the city limits of Kansas City. MPF produced and helped fund interpretive panels for the trail, and has also helped eradicate invasive plants for several years at this urban prairie owned by Kansas City Parks and Recreation. Jerry Smith Park, 139th & Prospect Ave. Trailhead is located at the south entrance of Jerry Smith Park. Off of 139th Street, just West of Prospect. Entrance is signed.

Contact: MPF

More Info:

Sponsor: Missouri Prairie Foundation

GPNC Wildflower Walk • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Jun 5th, 2010 @ 8:30am-12noon

Wichita, KS • Map

Tour the Great Plains Nature Center, a 282 acre park in the City of Wichita located at 6232 E. 29th Street (NW corner of Woodlawn and 29th Street). 8:30 - 9:00 : Meet and greet in the parking lot at the wildflower garden; 9:00 - 11:30 : Explore for wildflowers, learn about the restoration project and native areas; 11:30 : Visit the Nature Center and Owl's Nest Gift Shop; 12:00 : Lunch at a location to be determined; Wear sturdy hiking shoes/boots, a hat, bugspray and sunscreen. Don't forget to bring your camera and field guidebooks!

Contact: Krista Dahlinger 316 258 6341

Sponsor: Great Plains Nature Center

34th Annual Loess Hills Prairie Seminar • Iowa

Friday, Jun 4th, 2010 to Sunday, Jun 6th, 2010

Onawa, IA • Map

at Loess Hills Wildlife Area northeast of Onawa, Iowa. This is a great event for prairie-lovers! The philosophy and rationale is grounded in the concept of the "total village" – the belief that schools are part of the larger community that must come together to share and learn about the natural world and how to protect it. From 250 to 300 adults and students regularly attend the weekend event. This event is sponsored by Northwest Area Education Agency for educators, students, park and conservation persons, community leaders, and citizens.

Contact: Dianne Blankenship (712) 255-3447

More Info:

Sponsor: Northwest Area Education Agency

Pollinator Workshop • Riley County

Wednesday, Jun 2nd, 2010 @ 9:30am-12pm

Manhattan, KS • Map

In an effort to help save and celebrate pollinators, the PMC will host a free public program that will focus on a popular pollinator, the monarch butterfly. The event will be on Wednesday, June 2, 2010, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the PMC, 3800 South 20th Street, Manhattan, KS 66502. Directions to the PMC are below. If you plan to attend, please RSVP by May 28, by calling the PMC at 785-539-8761 and request any special accommodations needed. Those attending should bring a lawn chair and bug spray and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Guest speaker will be internationally recognized Dr. Chip Taylor, University of Kansas, founder of Monach Watch, an outreach program focused on education, research, and conservation relative to monarch butterflies. The goal of this program is to inspire the public, schools and others to create habitats for pollinators, such as monarch butterflies. Directions: From Manhattan: From Ft. Riley Blvd. or Tuttle Creek Blvd. (east side of Manhattan by Manhattan Town Center Mall) cross the Kansas River Bridge. Immediately after crossing the bridge, turn right on Riley Co. 901-McDowell Creek Road, travel 6.0 miles, turn right on Riley Co. 424. Follow Riley Co. 424, 3 miles north and 1 mile west to the PMC. From I-70: Travelers on I-70 should exit 307-McDowell Creek Road Interchange. Eastbound travelers should turn left, westbound travelers should turn right on Riley Co. 901- McDowell Creek Road, travel 3.6 miles to west 40th Avenue, turn left and travel 3 miles north to PMC.

Contact: Allen Casey 785-539-8761

More Info:

Sponsor: NRCS, Plant Materials Center (PMC)

Penn-Sylvania Prairie BioBlitz • Missouri

Saturday, May 29th, 2010 to Sunday, May 30th, 2010 @ 2pm

Dade County, MO • Map

Picnic and Campout in south west Missouri. Don't miss it! Take part in intensive nature study with experts on mammals, amphibians, reptiles, bees, butterflies, moths, plants, soils, snails and more, and help inventory species on this 160-acre prairie owned by Missouri Prairie Foundation in Dade County, MO. The event begins at 2pm and lasts until the next morning for some species. After a potluck picnic dinner, amateur astronomer Dan Zarlenga will set up his telescope and interpret the night sky. Registration required.

Contact: MPF (888) 843-6739

More Info:

Sponsor: Missouri Prairie Foundation

Grant County Wildflower Tour • Grant County

Saturday, May 29th, 2010 @ 9am

Ulysses, KS • Map

Join us to look for and examine the wildflowers found in the Grant County area. Meet inside the Fuel Barn convenience store 1-mile west of Ulysses, on Hwy 160 by 9am. We’ll to pool cars and go to the areas together. Some transportation will be provided. No fee or reservation needed. Alternate Contact: Sam Guy (620) 356-3548.

Contact: Marion McGlohon 620-356-2205

Tuttle Creek Lake Prairie Walk • Riley County

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010 @ 1:30-3:30pm

Manhattan, KS • Map

Explore Native Tallgrass Prairie at Tuttle Creek Lake, 1:30-3pm. Kansas Native Plant Society volunteers: Diane Barker, Nancy Goulden, and Karen Hummel will lead the walk near the Visitor Center at the lake. Rain date is May 23.

Contact: Park Ranger Paul Weidhaas (785) 539-8511

Sponsor: USACE Tuttle Creek Lake

Anderson County Prairies Tour • Anderson County

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010 @ 10am-Noon

Welda, KS • Map

The Nature Conservancy’s Anderson County Prairies, located south of Garnett, is a latticework of historic tallgrass prairie of high biological importance and subtle beauty. Anderson County’s deeper soils and higher annual rainfall support plant species more unique and diverse than other tallgrass prairie regions. The Conservancy is offering a walking tour of this tallgrass prairie. The preserve has been the site of ongoing Mead’s Milkweed and grassland bird research by the University of Kansas Biological Survey. The tour guides will be ecologists from the Biological Survey who will discuss the special significance of Anderson County Prairies, the natural history of the plants and animals of the region, and why these prairies are disappearing. Access to Anderson County Prairies is usually limited to researchers. Please join us for this special opportunity. The registration for this tour is $10 for Conservancy members and $15 for non-members. Reservations are required.

Contact: Laura Rose Clawson (785)-233-4400

More Info:

Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy

Prairie Appreciation Day @ Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010 @ 9am-4pm

Mayetta, KS • Map

Participants will be able to walk the prairie and learn about the plant and animal life with experts who are currently working to restore Snyder Prairie to its pre-settlement conditions. You can watch a demonstration about prairie mammals (the GHF Skins and Skulls display) and participate in a microscopic investigation of the things we find on our walk. Participants will also get to meet some of the volunteers that are helping to restore the prairie and possibly help with some restoration activities. GHF will serve a light lunch with sandwiches and drinks for those participants that get hungry walking the trails. Everyone is also encouraged to bring their cameras and sketchbooks. We suggest that everyone wear long pants and sturdy shoes and bring sunscreen and a water bottle. We will also have extra water on hand.

Contact: Kim Bellemere 785-840-8104

Sponsor: Grassland Heritage Foundation

Indigenous Plants Comunity Drawing Marathon • Saline County

Saturday, May 22nd, 2010 @ 10am-5pm

Salina, KS • Map

The Salina Art Center, The Land Institute & The Field School invite all children, youth, adults & seniors to step into the yard to make 1 drawing of an indigenous plant, insect, reptile, bird, or other animal in Kansas, on reused or recycled letter-size paper. A panel of Kansas field naturalists will judge the submissions. Supported by a grant from the Good Works Foundation in Los Angeles, visiting art teacher Ernesto Pujol will purchase 1,000 drawings on reused or recycled letter-size paper for $1 cash each. His goal is that participants look for indigenous plants, insects, birds and other animals in Kansas, learning more about their ecology in the process. Pujol and a local designer will create a virtual online Field Journal of the Kansas fauna and flora illustrated entirely by the community. This event is undertaken in partnership with The Land Institute to promote awareness for the preservation and restoration of the prairie. No drawings by mail! You must personally bring it to: The Salina Art Center Warehouse 149 South 4th St. (off Walnut St.)

Contact: Ernesto Pujol

More Info:

Sponsor: Salina Art Center

Papermaking from Plant Fiber Workshop • Shawnee County

Sunday, May 16th, 2010 @ 10am-3pm

Topeka, KS • Map

Jeff Hansen, will teach us how to make paper using native plant fibers. In this class we will learn the different types of plant fiber, the process of extracting the fiber from the plant, and the process of forming sheets of paper from the resulting fiber. We will work in teams of two with each team processing a different plant fiber into paper. The resulting paper will be shared equally among class members. The class will be conducted at historic Karlyle Woods, located at 3440 NW Button Rd in Topeka. The cost of the workshop is $30 and includes lunch & all materials. The workshop is limited to 12 people (Ages 12 and up). All materials and equipment are provided. Follow the link for more information and to sign up. Reservations are required.

Contact: Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917

More Info:

Sponsor: Kansas Native Plant Society

Wildflower Plant & Seed Sale • Douglas County

Sunday, May 16th, 2010 @ 1-4pm

Prairie Park Nature Center • Lawrence, KS • Map

At Prairie Park Nature Center.

Contact: (785) 832-7980

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, May 15th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed. Rescheduled to next weekend.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Native Gardening Class • Wyandotte County

Saturday, May 15th, 2010 @ 10am-noon

Kansas City, KS • Map

Join K-State Master Gardeners to learn the basics of setting up and maintaining a native garden as well as the advantages of native gardening, such as water conservation and attracting wildlife. They will also take participants on a walk through the library’s native Lewis and Clark Garden to see examples of native wildflowers. Native plants and seeds will be available for purchase. The Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library Branch of the Kansas City Kansas Public Library is an environmental learning center in Wyandotte County Lake Park, 4051 West Drive, Kansas City, KS. Seating limited so call today to reserve your spot.

Contact: (913) 299-2384

More Info:

Barber County Wildflower Tour • Barber County

Saturday, May 8th, 2010 @ 8:30am

800 W. 3rd Ave. • Medicine Lodge, KS • Map

Meet at the Medicine Lodge High School. Enjoy continental breakfast and slides of flowers we expect to see. Buses will provide transportation. Morning participants will return to the school at noon. Full-day participants will enjoy a delicious lunch and entertainment at a tree-shaded country park. Ride through the beautiful gyp hills to a second site. Refreshments will be served before we return to the school around 3:30pm. Pre-paid reservations should be sent before May 4th, $15 full-day. Barber Co Conservation, 800 W. 3rd Ave. Medicine Lodge, KS 67104-8002.

Contact: Courtney Pilkington (620) 886-3721, ext. 3

More Info: Tour Info

Plant the Prairie • Missouri

Saturday, May 8th, 2010 @ 9am-noon

Kansas City, MO • Map

Come help us plant wildflower seedlings grown from locally harvested seeds on three of Kansas City's beautiful remnant natural communities. If there's time, we will remove invasive plants from these areas, too, to give the seedlings plenty of space to grow. Three WildLands sites will be targeted:Ernie Miller Park remnant prairie, Olathe, Kansas, managed by Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Rocky Point Glades, Swope Park, Missouri, managed by Kansas City Missouri Parks and Recreation. Jerry Smith Park prairie, south Kansas City, Missouri, managed by Kansas City Missouri Parks and Recreation. This is a great opportunity to do hands-on restoration and conservation work on our urban area's ever-dwindling wild acres. You will help make a difference to the wild areas of Kansas City that will be evident for years to come! Please note that some of these sites have limited openings, so please register early, especially if you are bringing a group.

Contact: Linda Lehrbaum 816-561-1061, ext. 116

More Info:

Sponsor: Kansas City Wildlands

Flora Kansas: Great Plains Plant Bazaar • Harvey County

Friday, May 7th, 2010 to Monday, May 10th, 2010 @ daily

Dyck Arboretum • 177 West Hickory Street • Hesston, KS • Map

This plant sale features hard-to-find native perennials plus classes and tours. Kansas Native Plant Society co-sponsors Dyck Arboretum events. Ask about member's only sale dates; 10% members discount on all days. Admission charge is by donation.

Contact: Arboretum (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Ozarks Invasive Species Presentation • Missouri

Thursday, May 6th, 2010 @ 6:30-8:30pm

Springfield, MO • Map

They're Taking Over: Invasive Species in the Ozarks: From Hogs to Borers to Lespedeza to Mussels. This presentation will be held at the Springfield (MO) Conservation Nature Center.

Contact: Jennifer Ailor 417-581-4018

2010 Spring KAABG Meeting Itinerary • Missouri

Monday, May 3rd, 2010 to Tuesday, May 4th, 2010 @ 7am

Kansas City Area, MO • Map

Join Kansas Association of Arboreta & Botanical Gardens (KAABG) to tour Independence, MO; Unity Village, MO; Powell Gardens; Mahaffie Homestead and Stagecoach stop, Olathe, KS. See Itinerary.

Contact: Dick Weidenbach

Sponsor: KAABG Itinerary (PDF)

Presentation: Establishing a Wildflower Garden • Brown County

Saturday, May 1st, 2010 @ 10am

Hiawatha, KS • Map

Learn how to establish and maintain a native grass/wildflower garden with native plants. Presented by Fred & Nancy Coombs of Holton, KS. Fred & Nancy have years of experience with restoring their 80 acres to native prairie as well as planting an abundance of wildflowers around their home. Directions to Grimms Gardens (address is 2991 Goldfinch Road): From Hwy 36, between Fairview and Hiawatha, turn north on Goldfinch Road. There is a Grimm's Gardens sign at this intersection (Hwy 36 & Goldfinch Road). Take Goldfinch Road 6 miles north and you will see the Farm/Nursery on the west side of the road.

Contact: Nadine Champlin 785-284-2627

Sponsor: Grimm's Garden

Wildflower Walk at Felker Park • Shawnee County

Wednesday, Apr 28th, 2010 @ 6-8pm

Topeka, KS • Map

A small group of members cleared honeysuckle in March. Now we will revisit the site and look for wildflowers. Help explore the area and see the spring wildflowers that we saved from the onslaught of honeysuckle. Felker Park is a park in Topeka that is off Gage Blvd adjacent to Shunga Creek. Meet at the parking lot at the Tennis Courts off of Gage Blvd.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Gardening for Kids: Attracting Butterflies and Little Pollinators Class • Douglas County

Sunday, Apr 25th, 2010 @ 2-3pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Prairie Park Nature Center. Kids can enjoy getting their hands in the dirt and creating a wildlife garden. Class includes instruction on preparing the soil, garden plans and an assortment of seeds and live plants to start a butterfly garden. Class is open to ages: 7 to 14, fee: $10. Registration is limited to 25 attendees.

Contact: (785) 832-7980

Sponsor:

Flora Kansas Early Bird Plant Sale • Harvey County

Saturday, Apr 24th, 2010 @ 12pm-7pm

Hesston, KS • Map

This plant sale features hard-to-find native perennials plus classes and tours. Kansas Native Plant Society co-sponsors Dyck Arboretum events. FloraKansas plant sale is May 7-10. 10% members discount on all days. Admission charge is by donation.

Contact: Arboretum (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 24th, 2010 @ 7am-1pm

Kansas City, MO • Map

The Missouri Prairie Foundation's annual native plant sale will be held the last two Saturdays in April. A large variety of native wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies. Location: City Market, 5th & Walnut, Kansas City, MO.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-779-6708

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Apr 17th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Spring Board Meeting & Outing • Harvey County

Saturday, Apr 17th, 2010 @ 11am-2pm

Dyck Arboretum • Hesston, KS • Map

The Board meeting will be held at the Dyck Arboretum Visitor's Center. The outing will begin at 2pm. Meet at the Visitor's Center. Non-Board Members may attend the meeting or the outing; and may want to bring their own lunch if attending the meeting. Afterward, depending on the weather, we will 1) help with a prescribed burn (you may supervise if you prefer not to incinerate), 2) go for a hike on a couple of prairies east of Newton in eastern Harvey County, or 3) watch a slide show at the Arboretum. If you plan to help with the burn, please wear appropriate apparel, including long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes, a hat, and a bandanna. Some folks may decide to just watch or take photos. Please contact Brad for more information.

Contact: Brad Guhr 620-327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 17th, 2010 @ 7am-1pm

5th & Walnut • Kansas City, MO • Map

The Missouri Prairie Foundation's annual native plant sale will be held the last two Saturdays in April. A large variety of native wildflowers, grasses and some shrubs/small trees suitable for many growing conditions—sunny, shady, wet, and dry—will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit MPF and will help protect Missouri prairies. Location: City Market, 5th & Walnut, Kansas City, MO.

Contact: Doris Sherrick 816-779-6708

Cedar Crest Woodland Wildflower Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Apr 8th, 2010 @ 6pm

Cedar Crest • 1 SW Cedar Crest Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Explore the woods at MacLennan Park (Cedar Crest). These oak-hickory woods have an abundance of native woodland wildflowers. We will hike on the Kansas Trails Council’s newly built trails at MacLennan Park and scout for wildflowers. The first wildflowers of the season will be blooming: fawn lily (both the pink and the white species) and Dutchman's breeches. Meet at the parking lot on the west side of the governor mansion. Directions: From I-70, take the Fairlawn exit, go north to Cedar Crest and take a left, follow road to parking lot. Note: This event was rescheduled from the 7th due to rain.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Spring Workday: Clear Bush Honeysuckle along Shunga Creek • Shawnee County

Wednesday, Mar 31st, 2010 @ 5:30-7:30pm

Felker Park • Topeka, KS • Map

Help clear bush honeysuckle from the woods along Shunga Creek. Felker Park is a park in Topeka that is off Gage Blvd adjacent to Shunga Creek. We are going to clear an area of the woods of the honeysuckle and other invasives to allow the native species to flourish. Native plants found in these woods are Virginia Waterleaf, Woodland Phlox, Anise root, Wahoo, Chokecherry, and various sedges and grasses. The natives are barely hanging on because of the honeysuckle. The area we will be working is adjacent to the bridge at Gage & Shunga Creek. Parking is at the Tennis Courts off of Gage Blvd. If you can't come right at 5:30, just meet us in the woods. Wear boots, leather gloves, long sleeves and pants. Bring a lopper or pruning saw. If you don't want to cut, you can help drag branches. The City of Topeka will be supplying herbicide to treat the cut stumps to ensure the honeysuckle doesn't regrow.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Mar 27th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Groundhogs has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 27th for our first of two spring burns. The second burn is scheduled for Saturday, April 3rd. If weather does not permit us to burn on those two Saturdays, we may be burning the subsequent Sundays.Snyder Prairie is about 15 miles north of Topeka on Hwy. 75. To get to the site, go east on 158th St at Mayetta and go 3 miles or so to U St. and then 1) for the March 27th burn: go south (approximately ½ mile south to our gate (across from the Hug’s Driveway); OR 2) for the April rd burn: go east another 0.5 mile or so to the next drive way. Turn in (right) and park on the grass alongside the drive way. This is Marla Brandon’s who owns the land north of Snyder Prairie. We will assemble there and proceed south into the property. Wear jeans, boots, hat, and a long sleeve shirt and bring a handkerchief to cover your face. It should be cool, so dress in layers—if per change we end up fighting a fire you’ll get plenty warm. Please email me at fjnorman@sunflower.com by as soon as you know you can attend one or both of the burns or call my cell phone at (785) 691-9748. We will work weather permitting. Confirm by cell phone Saturday morning if there are any questions about the weather, etc.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Managing Your Virgin Tallgrass Prairie or Hay Meadow • Douglas County

Wednesday, Mar 24th, 2010 @ 7-9pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Learn the various methods required to manage your tallgrass prairie whether it is in good condition or being overrun by woody vegetation and sericea lespedeza. Topics to be addressed will include tree and shrub removal, herbiciding invasive plants, prescribed burning, and seeding. A handout will be provided that outlines the presentation and provides sources for prairie management publications, potential funding sources, and firms that supply prairie seeds and perform prairie management. Located at the Lawrence Public Library. Registration is required.

Contact: GHF 785-843-7243

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Feb 20th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Seasons Along the Kaw Presentation • Shawnee County

Monday, Feb 8th, 2010 @ 7pm

Topeka, KS • Map

Note: This is event was originally posted for Feb 9. Please join us for a presentation by Ken Lassman titled “Seasons Along the Kaw” at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library. Ken Lassman is a member of the Friends of the Kaw, which is in turn a member of the Waterkeeper Alliance. He is also a member of the Jayhawk Audubon Society. He is the author of the book Wild Douglas County, and the winner of an Elizabeth Schultz Environmental Fund Grant in 2007. Friends of the Kaw considers the Kansas (Kaw) River a 171-mile linear park to be enjoyed by families and outdoor enthusiasts. Friends of the Kaw continue to partner with river communities to develop boat access, river front parks and hiking and biking trails along the river for public use.
There will be a no-host dinner at 5:30pm before the program meeting. The location of this dinner will be Annie's Restaurant in the Gage Center Shopping Center. Everyone is welcome.

Contact: Topeka Audubon (785) 580-4400

How to Establish a Tallgrass Prairie on Your Land and Maintain It • Douglas County

Wednesday, Jan 20th, 2010 @ 7-9pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Learn the necessary steps to establish a prairie on your land, then maintain it as the prairie species start growing. Topics to be discussed include site preparation, seeding, and maintenance. A handout will be provided that outlines the presentation and provides sources for prairie establishment publications, potential funding sources, and firms that supply prairie seeds and perform prairie establishment. GHF board member, Groundhogs coordinator, and president of Norman Ecological Consulting, Frank Norman will lead the presentations. Pre-registration is requested. Contact Rachel. Those attending without registering may not receive handouts. Presentation Location: Lawrence Public Library.

Contact: Rachel

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jan 16th, 2010

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

KNPS Winter Board Meeting • Lyon County

Saturday, Jan 16th, 2010 @ 12:00-3pm

Emporia, KS • Map

The Board of Directors meet at Emporia State University in Science Hall room 159. Science Hall is on Merchant Street (K-99). Members are welcome to attend the board meeting.

Contact: KNPS

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Nov 21st, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Workday at Jerry Smith Park Prairie • Missouri

Sunday, Nov 15th, 2009

Kansas City, MO • Map

Workday at Jerry Smith Park Prairie in Kansas City. We will improve this original remnant prairie by removing invasive shrubs and trees. Meet at the Jerry Smith Park entrance at 1:15pm. Wear protective clothing and bring work gloves, loppers and hand saws if you have them; extra gloves and tools will be available. Directions: Take I-435 to Holmes Road. Proceed south on Holmes to 139th Street (immediately south of the Blue River bridge). Turn left (east) on 139th Street. The Jerry Smith Park entrance is 0.75 mile on the left. To see a map and more information about Jerry Smith Park, visit [http://www.kcwildlands.org/]

Contact: Doris Sherrick (816) 779-6708

Hidden Valley Camp Clean Up • Douglas County

Sunday, Nov 15th, 2009 @ 1pm-4pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Help with native woods restoration, including removal of invasive honeysuckle shrubs using chainsaws, loppers and poppers. Other tasks will include cutting firewood, stocking woodpiles, hauling and burning brush, planting, mulching and more. Most hand tools will be provided. Volunteers should wear durable clothing for working in the woods and bring a water bottle or cup. Refreshments, including s’mores, will be provided.

Contact: Durand Reiber 785-841-3567

Sponsor: Hidden Valley Girl Scout Camp

Field Trip to Chandler Park • Oklahoma

Saturday, Nov 14th, 2009

Tulsa, OK • Map

November 14: Join the Northeast Chapter of the Oklahoma Native Plant Society on a Field Trip to Chandler Park in Tulsa, OK.

Contact: Sue Amstutz (918) 742-8374

Work Day at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Chase County

Saturday, Nov 14th, 2009 @ 9am

Strong City, KS • Map

Volunteer workers are needed to help with prairie restoration at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The work will consist of planting prairie cordgrass plugs into designated prairie restoration sites. The work will likely be dirty so wear long pants, boots, and gloves. The preserve is located two miles north of Strong City, Kansas. Volunteers are asked to register by contacting Ruth Palmer.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy of Kansas

Honeysuckle Battle • Missouri

Saturday, Nov 7th, 2009 @ 9am-noon

Kansas City, MO • Map

Volunteer with Kansas City Wildlands for the seventh annual honeysuckle battle. We'll be cutting down, treating and removing invasive, exotic shrub honeysuckle that threatens the region's incredible, fragile wild places. During the past six years, amazing progress has been made by Kansas City WildLands volunteers in removing shrub honeysuckle from these natural communities. This is a great community workday for our wildlands and a really great group workday!!! Five WildLands sites across the region will be targeted.

Contact: Linda Lehrbaum (816) 561-1061 x116

Sponsor: Kansas City Wildlands

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies • Harvey County

Tuesday, Oct 27th, 2009 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Explore South Central Kansas Prairies in Harvey County, KS. This event will be led by Brad Guhr, Education Coordinator at Dyck Arboretum and Board Member of KNPS. Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. All ages are welcome. Leave the Dyck Arboretum in Hesston at 4pm and return by twilight. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Transportation provided, call to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Oct 17th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Field Trip to Maple Woods Natural Area • Missouri

Saturday, Oct 17th, 2009 @ 9am

Gladstone, MO • Map

Witness the beautiful display of fall foliage that is unrivaled in the Kansas City area. Sugar Maples will be in full fall splendor. Other autumn bloomers might also be spotted, such as orchids and Indian pipes. Directions: Take I-435 to Highway 152. Go west on 152 for 1.8 miles and exit on North Indiana (Route 1). Turn left (south). Continue south to NE 82nd Street. Turn right and continue. NE 82nd St. will veer left and become Agnes Ave. Continue on Agnes Ave. The road then veers right and becomes 76th St. Continue on 76th St. for about & half; mile to the Maple Woods Natural Area parking lot (on the left).

Contact: Sue Hollis (816) 561-9419

Papermaking from Plant Fiber Workshop • Shawnee County

Saturday, Oct 10th, 2009 @ 10am-3pm

Topeka, KS • Map

Jeff Hansen, will teach us how to make paper using native plant fibers. In this class we will learn the different types of plant fiber, the process of extracting the fiber from the plant, and the process of forming sheets of paper from the resulting fiber. We will work in teams of two with each team processing a different plant fiber into paper. The resulting paper will be shared equally among class members. The class will be conducted at historic Karlyle Woods, located at 3440 NW Button Rd in Topeka. The cost of the workshop is $30 and includes lunch. The workshop is limited to 12 people (Ages 12 and up). All materials and equipment are provided. Follow the link for more information and to sign up. Reservations are required.

Contact: Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917

Sponsor: Papermaking Workshop

Visions of the Flint Hills: Preserving the Tallgrass Prairie Art Exhibit • Missouri

Friday, Oct 2nd, 2009 to Saturday, Dec 5th, 2009

Kansas City, MO • Map

The show features art inspired by the beauty and serenity of the Kansas Flint Hills. The Art Show and Exhibit benefits the Kansas Park Trust. Located at Buttonwood artSpace, 3013 Main St, Kansas City, MO.

Contact: Buttonwood 816-285-9040

Sponsor: Buttonwood Art Space

Prairie Seed Harvesting at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Chase County

Thursday, Oct 1st, 2009 @ 9am-noon

Strong City, KS • Map

Help staff harvest prairie seeds. The seeds will be used to restore bottomland prairie areas at the preserve.

Contact: TAPR (620) 273–8494

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Sep 19th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

KNPS 31st Annual Wildflower Weekend • Crawford County

Friday, Sep 18th, 2009 to Sunday, Sep 20th, 2009

Pittsburg, KS • Map

Come enjoy native plants in southeast Kansas with KNPS. The weekend is filled with outings, programs, a silent auction, photo contest, dinner, and socializing.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

Sponsor: Annual Wildflower Weekend

3rd Annual Wildflower Weekend at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Chase County

Saturday, Sep 12th, 2009 to Sunday, Sep 13th, 2009 @ 10am-4pm

Strong City, KS • Map

Join the National Park Staff and the Kansas Native Plant Society in celebrating the prairie. Interactive displays will include: 1) Wool dyeing with native plants, 2) Edible plants of the prairie, 3) Handmade paper from prairie fibers, and 4) Aromatic plants of the prairie. There will be a slide show on plant identification, a plant identification contest, medicinal plant walks, and wildflower walks. Bring the family; the weekend will be educational and enjoyable for all ages.

Contact: TPNP (620) 273-8494

Russell County Fall Wildflower Tour • Russell County

Tuesday, Sep 8th, 2009 @ 9am-12pm

Dorrance, KS • Map

Join us for a FREE native wildflower tour on the property of Dubuque Land and Cattle Co. of Russell County. Event will include guided tours from local experts on the identification and ecology of local native plants. Event will provide light refreshments as well as literature on wildflowers including posters, brochures, and the new "Pocket Guide to Central Kansas Wildflowers- Fall Blooming".

Contact: James Leiker jaleiker@gmail.com

Sponsor: BCMSHR WRAPS

Fall Wildflower Tour at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • McPherson County

Saturday, Sep 5th, 2009 @ 10am

Canton, KS • Map

Board the tram for a tour of the prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. There is also a self guided walking tour with flowers flagged. The Refuge is located 6 miles north of Canton, KS.

Contact: (620)-628-4455

Prairie Seed Harvesting at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Chase County

Thursday, Sep 3rd, 2009 @ 9am-noon

Strong City, KS • Map

Help staff harvest prairie seeds. The seeds will be used to restore bottomland prairie areas at the preserve.

Contact: TAPR (620) 273–8494

Mt. Mitchell Heritage Prairie Wildflower Tour • Wabaunsee County

Tuesday, Sep 1st, 2009 @ 6:30pm-sunset

Wamego, KS • Map

The Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee Co. Conservation Districts are hosting a Wildflower Tour for anyone interested in learning about the plant diversity of the Tallgrass Prairie. The tour will be held at the Mt. Mitchell Heritage Prairie south of Wamego. The tour will be led by Jeff Hansen and Diane Barker, from the Kansas Native Plant Society. The tour ends at sunset. Refreshments will be provided by the Wabaunsee and Pottawatomie County Conservation Districts following the walk. Mt. Mitchell is located on Mitchell Prairie Rd (3.5 miles south of Wamego on Hwy 99 or 5.5 miles north of K-99 and I-70). If you have any questions, please call Janice at Westmoreland 785-457-3661 ext.103 or Roxann @ Alma 785-765-3836 ext 101. Please let us know if you have any special needs.

Contact: Janice Plummer

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies • Harvey County

Tuesday, Aug 18th, 2009 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. All ages are welcome. Leave the Dyck Arboretum in Hesston at 4:00 p.m. and return by twilight. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Transportation provided, call 620-327-8127 to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: 620-327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Mid/Short-Grass Rangeland Management Class • Barton County

Tuesday, Aug 18th, 2009 to Thursday, Aug 20th, 2009 @ 8am to 3pm

Claflin, KS • Map

At Camp Aldrich near Claflin. The theme for 2009 is Principles of Rangeland Management - Grass and Animal Ecology in Kansas, Reaching Harmony…profit and environment. The focus will be the balance between making a sustainable living while keeping a sustainable environment. The schools cost $250 per person, but scholarships are available to most ranchers interested in attending reducing the fee to $100 per person. Agency staffs may qualify for a $100 scholarship. Students can also receive a $150 scholarship. For more information about scholarships and the schools go to the KGLC website.

Contact: Tim Christian 620-241-3636

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Aug 15th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Visit Nebraska's Alexandria Lakes State Park • Nebraska

Saturday, Aug 15th, 2009 @ 10am

Alexandria, NE • Map

KNPS members are invited to join the Nebraska Native Plant Society to tour Alexandria Lakes in South Central Nebraska. Alexandria Lakes is a State Park 4 miles east of the town of Alexandria, NE. We'll meet at the first parking lot west of the main park entrance and campground to see the wet prairie. A potluck lunch and brief annual meeting will follow the prairie tour.

Contact: Elaine Nowick 402-417-5253

Sponsor: Nebraska Native Plant Society

Tallgrass Rangeland Management Class • Morris County

Tuesday, Aug 11th, 2009 to Thursday, Aug 13th, 2009 @ 8am to 3pm

Council Grove, KS • Map

At White Memorial Camp near Council Grove. The theme for 2009 is Principles of Rangeland Management - Grass and Animal Ecology in Kansas, Reaching Harmony…profit and environment. The focus will be the balance between making a sustainable living while keeping a sustainable environment. The schools cost $250 per person, but scholarships are available to most ranchers interested in attending reducing the fee to $100 per person. Agency staffs may qualify for a $100 scholarship. Students can also receive a $150 scholarship. For more information about scholarships and the schools go to the KGLC website.

Contact: Tim Christian 620-241-3636

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies • Harvey County

Tuesday, Aug 4th, 2009 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. All ages are welcome. Leave the Dyck Arboretum in Hesston at 4:00 p.m. and return by twilight. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Transportation provided, call 620-327-8127 to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: 620-327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Tour Bob McElroy's Prairie Hay Meadow • Osage County

Sunday, Jul 26th, 2009 @ 6:00pm

Carbondale, KS • Map

Join other KNPS members in enjoying this high quality prairie hay meadow. There will be acres of thickspike gayfeather and compass plant in bloom. It is an incredible sight! Don't forget your camera. Directions: From Topeka, take Topeka Blvd south to 117th Rd, go east on 117th two miles to California (it dead ends at California), take a left at California and go about half a mile. There is a driveway with a green mailbox on your right. We will meet by the barn. The address is 11400 S. California. This is private property and is only open to us on this day.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Sponsor: Audubon of Kansas

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jul 18th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

KNPS Summer Board Meeting and Outing • McPherson County

Saturday, Jul 11th, 2009 @ 10am-noon

Canton, KS • Map

The Board meeting will be held at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge Tour Center following the outing. We have been invited to tour "Buffalo Hill", a 160-acre private prairie bordering Maxwell. Non-Board Members may want to bring their own lunch to eat prior to the Board Meeting.

Contact: Susan Reimer (620) 245-9055

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies • Harvey County

Tuesday, Jul 7th, 2009 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. All ages are welcome. Leave the Dyck Arboretum in Hesston at 4:00 p.m. and return by twilight. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Transportation provided, call 620-327-8127 to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: 620-327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Prairie Seed Harvesting at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Chase County

Thursday, Jul 2nd, 2009 @ 9am-noon

Strong City, KS • Map

Help staff harvest prairie seeds. The seeds will be used to restore bottomland prairie areas at the preserve.

Contact: TAPR (620) 273–8494

Grant-Bradbury Prairie Walk • Shawnee County

Thursday, Jun 25th, 2009 @ 7pm

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

Join KNPS for the 7th Annual Grant Bradbury prairie walk. This 80-acre tallgrass prairie includes over 296 plant species. Jeff Hansen, KNPS President and GHF Board Member will lead the tour. Directions: Take Topeka Blvd south to the University Blvd intersection (stoplight), take a right. Take University west about half a mile - when the road curves south, you are at the driveway to the park gate. There is a small brick building at the driveway.

Contact: Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917

Explore South-Central Kansas Prairies • Harvey County

Tuesday, Jun 23rd, 2009 @ 4pm

Hesston, KS • Map

Join us in gathering seed, observing birds and insects, and identifying prairie plants on high quality prairie remnants. All ages are welcome. Leave the Dyck Arboretum in Hesston at 4:00 p.m. and return by twilight. Fee: $5, children under 13 are free. Transportation provided, call 620-327-8127 to reserve a spot. Directions can be given to late-comers. Bring a sandwich and enjoy the sun setting over the prairie.

Contact: 620-327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Prairie Interpretation for Naturalists • Lyon County

Monday, Jun 22nd, 2009 to Thursday, Jul 2nd, 2009 @ 8:00am-11:50

Emporia, KS • Map

This field course examines life in the tallgrass prairie and related biotic communities in our eastern Kansas landscape and prepares students to be interpreters of these complex ecosystems Emphasis is on the plants and animals and how their lives are interwoven into the fabric of the prairie year and the roles they have played in human history. Students will be provided with resource materials. This class is designed for teachers and others interested in the natural history of the prairie. Course: EB 469A/859A two credit hours
If there is enough interest, this class (officially on the ESU campus) could have a section in Wichita.

Contact: Tom Eddy (620) 341-5671

Sponsor: Emporia State

Evening Foray on Tallgrass Prairie • Leavenworth County

Sunday, Jun 21st, 2009 @ 6pm

McLouth, KS • Map

Visit a privately owned high quality hay meadow. Bring Dad and celebrate Father's Day. See showy plants like bread-root scurf-pea, New Jersey tea, pale-spike lobelia and prairie phlox. Other interesting plants growing on this prairie include: blunt-leaf milkweed, porcupine grass and prairie dropseed grass. Kansas Native Plant Society Board Members Shirley Braunlich and Jeff Hansen, KNPS Past President, will co-lead the walk. We will meet in McLouth at Casey's General Store (310 E. Lake St.) on 16 Hwy at 6pm and caravan to the prairie.

Contact: KNPS (785) 806-6917

Sponsor: KNPS

Wildflower Walk at Konza Prairie • Riley County

Saturday, Jun 20th, 2009 @ 6:30am

Manhattan, KS • Map

Join the Topeka Audubon Society at the Konza Prairie. Pack a snack and lunch/beverage. To car pool from Topeka, meet at 6:30am at the Zoo parking lot.

Contact: Dan Gish (785) 232-3731

Sponsor: Topeka Audubon Society

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jun 20th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Visit a Favorite Place on Earth: Chase State Fishing Lake • Chase County

Tuesday, Jun 16th, 2009 @ 5pm

Strong City, KS • Map

Led by Brad Guhr, Education Coordinator. Do you have a favorite place on earth that you never get tired of visiting? One of mine is in the heart of the Flint Hills at Chase State Fishing Lake (CCFL). Start by visiting a cool oasis along the spillway stream with woodland vegetation, water falls, shallow pools, and shelves of limestone to explore. Proceed up bluffs overlooking the reservoir with prairie wildflowers in June splendor. There you will be surrounded by buffalo wallows, waves of prairie as far as the eye can see, and endless wind and sky that will take you back to another place in time. Leave in vans from the Dyck Arboretum at 5:00 p.m., enjoy supper provided at CCFL, and return to Hesston after sunset. $15 for adults, $10 for children under 13. RSVP by Friday, June 12.

Contact: 620-327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Wildflower Class & Tour at Prairie Park Nature Center • Douglas County

Sunday, Jun 14th, 2009 @ 1:30-3:30pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Learn about the wildflowers found in this tallgrass prairie. Hear about prairie management and the treatment of invasive plants like honeysuckle. Try your hand at wildflower identification and find out about available wildflower guides. Kansas Native Plant Society is working with Marty Birrell, Director of the Nature Center, for this event. Address: 2730 SW Harper St. in Lawrence.

Contact: Marty Birrell (785) 832-7980

Sponsor: Prairie Park Nature Center

Wilson County Wildflower Tour • Wilson County

Saturday, Jun 13th, 2009 @ 8:30am

615 Madison • Fredonia, KS • Map

Gather at the Wilson County Courthouse basement, 615 Madison. Enjoy home baked pastries and coffee. Buses will provide transportation. Join small group tours or opt for self-guided experience. Kansas Native Plant Society members will play active roles in the event. After the tour, stay and enjoy the festivities of the Fredonia Flag Festival. Registration for tour $8.00, payable to Wilson Co Conservation District, 930 North 2nd St, Fredonia, KS 66736.

Contact: Gina Thompson (620) 378-2866

Sponsor: Registration Form (PDF)

4th Annual Symphony in the Flint Hills • Marion County

Saturday, Jun 13th, 2009

Florence, KS • Map

Held on a private ranch east of Florence, Kansas deep in the heart of the hills. Get ready for one of the most beautiful sites on the planet and the adventure of getting there. Enjoy this unique pairing of music and prairie! The vision of this concert is to heighten appreciation and knowledge of the Flint Hills as the last major intact tallgrass prairie on the North American continent and will help focus attention on the Flint Hills of Kansas as a national treasure belonging to all Kansans and as a destination for people beyond our borders. Featured is an outdoor concert performed by the Kansas City Symphony.

Contact: (620) 273-8955

Sponsor: Symphony in the Flint Hills

Cimarron National Grassland Bus Tour • Morton County

Saturday, Jun 13th, 2009

Elkhart, KS • Map

The tour lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours, looping through the Grassland with a stop at Point of Rocks where the Morton County Theater Group will enact various stages of history of the area. USDA Forest Service employees ride each bus and talk about the Grassland in general. Program may vary. We'll meet with the St. Jude Trail Riders at the Cimarron Recreation Area for lunch then return to the Museum. Buses leave the Morton County Historical Society Museum at 10:00 and will return approximately at 2:00. Cost is $10.00 and a meal is included. Reservations must be made by Thursday, June 11.

Contact: email 620-697-2833

Sponsor: Cimarron National Grassland

Cowley County Wildflower Tour • Cowley County

Saturday, Jun 13th, 2009 @ 8am - 1pm

Winfield, KS • Map

Join us at the Winfield High School, 300 Viking Blvd, for the 9th Annual Cowley County Wildflower Tour. We will begin at 8 am with homemade cinnamon rolls and coffee. The bus will then transport us into Eastern Cowley County to a privately owned cattle ranch for wildflower identification on the tall grass prairie. A chuckwagon lunch will be provided. Southwestern College Biology Professor, Charles Hunter, and retired Cowley College professor, Richard Treadway will be providing educational advice, with other speakers to be arranged and door prizes. RSVP's due for the meal by June 5.

Contact: Wanda Jackson 620-221-1850 ext 3

Wildflower Walk at The Prairie Center • Johnson County

Saturday, Jun 13th, 2009 @ 8:30am-10:30am

Olathe, KS • Map

Dr Glenn Fell will lead us on the paths at the Prairie Center. This Kansas nature park was formerly owned by GHF. Glenn is very familiar with the site and knows where all the best flowers are located! The Prairie Center is located at the corner of 135th ST (Hwy 150) and Cedar Niles Rd. The parking lot is south of the intersection on Cedar Niles.

Contact: Sue Holcomb 913-449-3621

Friends of Konza Prairie Annual Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Saturday, Jun 13th, 2009 @ 7pm

Manhattan, KS • Map

The walk will be co-lead by Valerie Wright, KNPS Board Member, and Konza Docents. There is a charge of $7 for those who are not Friends of Konza Prairie members. Telephone reservations are due June 9.

Contact: (785) 587-0441

Sponsor: Konza

Mt. Mitchell Heritage Prairie Wildflower Tour • Wabaunsee County

Tuesday, Jun 9th, 2009 @ 7pm-sunset

Wamego, KS • Map

The Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee Conservation Districts are hosting a prairie wildflower tour at Mt. Mitchell in Wabaunsee County. Jeff Hansen of the Kansas Native Plant Society is leading the tour. Mt. Mitchell is a glaciated flint hills prairie with good plant diversity. Refreshments will be provided. Please let us know if there are people with special needs, so we can accommodate. The Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie is located on the east side of Highway 99, three and a half miles south of Wamego or one half mile south of the Junction of K-18 and 99. It is five and a half miles north of the junction of I-70 and K-99. Turn east at ‘Mitchell Prairie Lane’ and bear left, following the dirt road up the hill a half a mile until you get to a mowed parking area on your left.

Contact: Janice Plummer 785-457-3661 ext 3

Great Plains Ecology for Teachers • Sedgwick County

Monday, Jun 8th, 2009 to Thursday, Jun 11th, 2009 @ 8am-noon

Wichita, KS • Map

How Prairie Wildflowers Reveal Their Life Histories. In this field class we will visit the wildflowers of the Kansas prairie and study the special designs that equip each to meet the demands of their roles in the prairie community. Questions will be asked about their origins, their relationships to other prairie plants, soils, and habitat sites preferences, events in their seasonal and daily lives, values for human food and medicine and tolerance to grazing, invasive plants and fire. Answers from the prairie plants will provide our class with an in depth understanding of the dynamics of the prairie ecosystem. Great Plains Nature Center, 6232 E. 29th Street North, Wichita, KS.

Contact: Joyce Lent (316) 683-5499 x210

Sponsor: Great Plains Nature Center

Friends of Konza Prairie Annual Wildflower Walk • Riley County

Sunday, Jun 7th, 2009 @ 7pm

Manhattan, KS • Map

The walk will be co-lead by Valerie Wright, KNPS Board Member, and Konza Docents. There is a charge of $7 for those who are not Friends of Konza Prairie members. Telephone reservations are due June 3.

Contact: (785) 587-0441

Sponsor: Konza

Spring Wildflower Tour at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge • McPherson County

Saturday, Jun 6th, 2009 @ 10am

Canton, KS • Map

Board the tram for a tour of the prairie with wildflowers and buffalo. There is also a self guided walking tour with flowers flagged. The Refuge is located 6 miles north of Canton, KS.

Contact: (620)-628-4455

Wildflower Walk at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jun 6th, 2009 @ 10am-1pm

Mayetta, KS • Map

Frank Norman, a board member of both KNPS and GHF will be leading a walk at GHF's Snyder Prairie. This property was a combination of native prairie and areas in the process of restoration. It is located at 158th and U Rd a few miles east of Hwy 75 about 20 miles north of Topeka. Turn south on U Rd and our gate is across for the Hugs mailbox. There are no mowed paths, so be sure to wear your long pants and sturdy shoes.

Contact: Frank Norman 785-691-9748

Prairie Seed Harvesting at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve • Chase County

Thursday, Jun 4th, 2009 @ 9am-noon

Strong City, KS • Map

Help staff harvest prairie seeds. The seeds will be used to restore bottomland prairie areas at the preserve.

Contact: TAPR (620) 273–8494

Smoky Valley Ranch Visitor's Day • Logan County

Saturday, May 30th, 2009 @ 9am - noon

Oakley, KS • Map

Help celebrate the Kansas Chapter’s 20th Anniversary by joining us in western Kansas at the Conservancy’s Smoky Valley Ranch, a 16,800-acre predominately short grass prairie preserve. The Conservancy staff and leading experts will lead guided tours providing insight on many cultural, historical, geological and biological points of interest. This working cattle ranch is home to many species of mammals and birds and is the site of the recent reintroduction of the federally endangered black-footed ferret. This event will also mark the opening of three new hiking trails at the ranch. The event is free. Please bring your own lunch. Be sure to wear good walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Because of the primitive roads at the ranch, heavy rains could force us to cancel this event on short notice. Reservations are required.

Contact: Ruth Palmer 785-233-4400

Grant County Wildflower Walk • Grant County

Saturday, May 30th, 2009 @ 9:00am-12noo

Ulysses, KS • Map

Meet at the Fuel Barn station, 1 mile west of Ulysses KS, on Hwy 160 by 9:00 to pool cars to go the area(s) together. Some transportation will be provided. No fee or reservation needed. The tour will last until about noon. For more information: call Marion McGlohon (620) 356-2205 or Sam Guy (620) 356-3548.

Seed and Plant Trade • Sedgwick County

Saturday, May 30th, 2009 @ 10am to 3pm

Wichita, KS • Map

Location: Scholfield Honda Green Zone, 6909 East Kellogg Drive. This is a get together for Gardeners to share and trade their seeds and plants, Native to Kansas as well as Tropicals, Exotics, and Vegetables. KNPS members are welcomed and encouraged to visit. There will be snacks and coffee. This is an indoor facility, complete with big screen and computer to view pictures of your plants and gardens. This building sets away from the Dealership with the entrance facing the West on Mission street. There is a high visible sign making it easy to locate the "Green Zone". My thanks to Roger Scholfield for sponsoring this event.

Contact: Debra Carson 316-688-6400

Sponsor: Scholfield Honda

Loess Hills Prairie Seminar • Iowa

Friday, May 29th, 2009 to Sunday, May 31st, 2009

Onawa, IA • Map

Near Onawa, IA at the Sylvan Runkel Preserve. This the 33rd Annual Seminar. This is a great event for prairie-lovers!

Contact: Dianne Blankenship (712) 255-3447

Sponsor: Loess Hills Prairie Seminar

Comanche County Nature Tour • Comanche County

Saturday, May 23rd, 2009 @ 8:30am

Coldwater, KS • Map

View native plants, wildflowers, and birds during the morning tour in the Coldwater area. Visit a couple of area ranches for even more beautiful Red (Gyp) Hills scenery in the afternoon. We will meet at the High School (600 N. Leavenworth) at 8:30am for coffee and rolls. Reservations are due May 20. Registration for the catered lunch and continental breakfast is $10. Coldwater Chamber of Commerce and KNPS are co-sponsors. Coldwater is in south central KS on Hwy 160, 60 miles southeast of Dodge City and 135 miles southwest of Wichita.

Contact: June Kliesen (620) 738-4340

Sponsor: Registration Form (pdf)

Akin Prairie Wildflower Walk • Douglas County

Saturday, May 23rd, 2009 @ 1 pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Led by Kelly Kindscher. Directions: Two miles east of Lawrence on K-10, take the E. 1900 Rd (Douglas Co. 1057) exit and go south two miles to N. 1150 Road. Take N. 1150 to the west (right) about .4 mi. The prairie is on the south, at the top of the hill. KLT signs will mark the way. You'll see an iron gate, and just inside the fence, a small memorial to Ms. Akin.

Contact: Carol Huettner (785) 749-3297

Sponsor: Kansas Land Trust

Memorial Day Weekend Wildflower Tour • Ellis County

Saturday, May 23rd, 2009 @ 9am-12pm

Hays, KS • Map

The BCMSHR WRAPS along with many participating agencies are holding a wildflower tour on the Fort Hays State University rangelands. It is a come and go event and there will be local experts on hand to identify and give a little history/uses of the wildflowers present. Such experts include Mike Haddock (KSU), Keith Harmoney (KSU), and Roger Tacha (NRCS). The event is FREE and all are welcome to participate. Event information can be found at www.MyKansasWatershed.com. The FHSU rangelands are home to many wildflower and grass species. In 2007, 147 species of seeds were collected from the plants with an estimated 180 species present on only 1200 acres!

Contact: James Leiker 785-623-8513

Sponsor: BCMSHR WRAPS

Wildflower Plant & Seed Sales • Douglas County

Sunday, May 17th, 2009 @ 1-4pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Prairie Park Nature Center. Sponsored by the Prairie Park Partners.

Contact: (785) 832-7980

Birding at Overland Park Arboretum • Johnson County

Saturday, May 16th, 2009 @ 7am

Overland Park, KS • Map

Join the Topeka Audubon Society. Pack a snack and lunch/beverage. To car pool from Topeka, meet at 7am in the parking lot for the Dillon's store at 29th & California.

Contact: Dan Gish (785) 232-3731

Sponsor: Topeka Audubon Society

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, May 16th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Tour Bob McElroy's 640 acre Prairie and Woodland • Osage County

Wednesday, May 13th, 2009 @ 5:30pm

Carbondale, KS • Map

Join the Topeka Audubon Society & the Kansas Native Plant Society in touring this private property. There are high quality prairie & woodlands, a 60 acre watershed lake, pastures, and CRP planting. We will be looking for spring wildflowers and birds. Directions: Take Topeka Blvd to 117th Rd, go east on 117th two miles to California (it dead ends at California), take a left at California and go about half a mile. There is a driveway with a green mailbox on your right. We will meet by the barn. The address is 11400 S. California. This is private property and is only open to us on this day.

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917

Wildflower Plant & Seed Sales • Douglas County

Sunday, May 10th, 2009 @ 1-4pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Prairie Park Nature Center. Sponsored by the Prairie Park Partners.

Contact: (785) 832-7980

Barber County Wildflower Tour • Barber County

Saturday, May 9th, 2009 @ 8:30am

800 W. 3rd Ave. • Medicine Lodge, KS • Map

Meet at the Medicine Lodge High School. Enjoy continental breakfast and slides of flowers we expect to see. Buses will provide transportation. Morning participants will return to the school at noon. Full-day participants will enjoy a delicious lunch and entertainment at a tree-shaded country park. Ride through the beautiful gyp hills to a second site. Refreshments will be served before we return to the school around 3:30pm. Barber Co. Conservation District and Kansas Native Plant Society are co-sponsors. Pre-paid reservations should be sent before May 5th, $8 half-day, $15 full-day. Barber Co Conservation, 800 W. 3rd Ave. Medicine Lodge, KS 67104-8002.

Contact: (620) 886-3721, ext. 3

Sponsor: Barber County Conservation District

Monarch Watch Spring Open House & Plant Fundraiser • Douglas County

Saturday, May 9th, 2009

Lawrence, KS • Map

Buy native milkweeds and other plants to attract butterflies to your landscape. We are located in Foley Hall (2021 Constant Ave) near the greenhouse on West Campus at KU.

Contact: monarch (785) 864-4441

Sponsor: Monarch Watch

Flora Kansas: Great Plains Plant Bazaar • Harvey County

Thursday, May 7th, 2009 to Monday, May 11th, 2009 @ daily

Dyck Arboretum • Hesston, KS • Map

Dyck Arboretum of the Plains, Hesston, KS. This plant sale features hard-to-find native perennials plus classes and tours. Kansas Native Plant Society co-sponsors Dyck Arboretum events. Members only sale dates May 8-9 sale dates; 10% members discount at the sale on all days. Admission charge is by donation.

Contact: Dyck Arboretum (620) 327-8127

Sponsor: Dyck Arboretum

Gardening for Kids: Attracting Butterflies and Little Pollinators Class • Douglas County

Sunday, May 3rd, 2009 @ 2-3pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Prairie Park Nature Center. Kids can enjoy getting their hands in the dirt and creating a wildlife garden. Class includes instruction on preparing the soil, garden plans and an assortment of seeds and live plants to start a butterfly garden. Class is open to ages: 7 to 14, fee: $10. Registration is limited to 25 attendees.

Contact: (785) 832-7980

Powell Gardens Spring Plant Sale • Missouri

Sunday, May 3rd, 2009 to Monday, May 4th, 2009

Kingsville, MO • Map

Shop a unique selection of annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs – including great native plants and specialties grown only in the beautiful setting of Powell Gardens. Friday Member Preview, 5-7 pm. Becky Homan, retired garden editor of the St. Louis Post Dispatch, will sign her new book, "The Missouri Gardener's Companion, An Insider's Guide to Gardening in the Show-Me State." Directions: 30 miles east of Kansas City on Highway 50, Kingsville, Mo. Admission fee for non-members.

Contact: (816) 697-2600

Sponsor: Powell Gardens

Spring Wildflower Walk at Prairie State Park • Missouri

Saturday, May 2nd, 2009 @ 10am

Lamar, MO • Map

Visit Missouri’s largest remaining tallgrass prairie, at nearly 4,000 acres. Hike on the prairie with a naturalist to discover some of the early bloomers of the season. Find out what makes a prairie so beautiful in the spring and what some of the plants were once used for. This hike will be about a mile or less. Please bring comfortable hiking shoes and be prepared for the weather. Meet at the visitor center, 10am. This event is sponsored by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Contact: PSP (417) 843-6711

Sponsor: Prairie State Park

Kansas City Wildlands Community Ecological Restoration Workday • Missouri

Saturday, May 2nd, 2009 @ 9am-noon

Kansas City, MO • Map

Plant the prairie!!! We will be planting native flowers grown by KCWL Partner, Powell Gardens from locally collected seed. As time allows, we will also remove invasive garlic mustard and woody plants. Come help our fragile prairies and glades thrive again! Sites include: Ernie Miller Park prairie in Olathe, KS, Rocky Point Glades in Swope Park, KC, MO, and Jerry Smith Park prairie in south KC, MO. This workday is for older youth (12 and up) and adults.

Contact: Linda Lehrbaum (816) 561-1061 x116

Sponsor: Kansas City Wildlands

Gardening for Wildlife • Douglas County

Sunday, Apr 26th, 2009 @ 2-3pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Class at Prairie Park Nature Center. Create a mini-wildlife sanctuary in your own yard using plants designed to provide food and cover for wildlife. Learn about including the right food plants, nesting structures and hiding places. Class is open to ages: 18 and older, fee: $3. Registration is limited to 40 attendees.

Contact: (785) 832-7980

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 25th, 2009 @ 7am-noon

Kansas City, MO • Map

Location: City Market, 5th & Walnut, Kansas City, MO.

Contact: (888) 843-6739

Sponsor:

Wings N Wetlands Weekend • Barton County

Friday, Apr 24th, 2009 to Sunday, Apr 26th, 2009

Great Bend, KS • Map

Wildlife extravaganza at Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge; explore birds, reptiles, mammals & wildflowers! Registration fees will be announced soon. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Contact: TNC Kansas Chapter (785) 233-4400

Missouri Prairie Foundation Spring Plant Sale • Missouri

Saturday, Apr 18th, 2009 @ 7am-noon

Kansas City, MO • Map

Location: City Market, 5th & Walnut, Kansas City, MO.

Contact: (888) 843-6739

Sponsor:

KNPS Spring Board Meeting and Outing • Johnson County

Saturday, Apr 18th, 2009

Overland Park, KS • Map

Board Meeting: 10am to 1pm, Overland Park Arboretum. Our meeting will be in the classroom. We plan to eat while we are wrapping up our business; bring your own lunch. Outing: 1:30-4:30pm. We will tour the diverse grounds with Ken O'Dell and Lynda Ochs of the Arboretum. We will hear about the prairie restoration project and other ongoing work. The Arboretum address is 8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park, KS.

Contact: KNPS (785) 864-3453

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Apr 18th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Green Landscape Techniques for the Homeowner • Douglas County

Sunday, Apr 12th, 2009 @ 2-3pm

Lawrence, KS • Map

Class at Prairie Park Nature Center. Learn to use safer, healthier techniques for creating a great landscape in your yard. Selecting appropriate plants and using safer chemicals for controlling herbicides and pesticides will be the focus of this class. Class is open to ages: 18 and older, fee: $3. Registration is limited to 40 attendees.

Contact: (785) 832-7980

Spring Cleanup at Chaplin Nature Center • Cowley County

Saturday, Apr 4th, 2009 @ 10am-3pm

Arkansas City, KS • Map

Volunteer to help get CNC in shape with building cleanup or trail maintenance. Choose either light or heavy workloads.

Contact: Shawn Silliman (620) 442-4133

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Mar 21st, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed.

Contact: Frank Norman (785) 691-9748

Oak Park Cleanup • Sedgwick County

Saturday, Mar 14th, 2009 @ 9am

Wichita, KS • Map

Help keep this priceless birding spot litter-free. Meet by the north pond, and bring gloves. Trash bags and other equipment will be provided.

Contact: Rosa McHenry (316) 263-4042

Perry Lake Trail Maintenance • Jefferson County

Saturday, Mar 7th, 2009

Perry, KS • Map

This was one of the first National Recreation Trails in Kansas. Help Kansas Sierra Club work on maintaining the northern section of the Perry Lake Trail. Bring lunch & work gloves.

Contact: Steve Hassler (913) 707-3296

Sponsor: Kansas Sierra Club

Kansas City Wildlands Community Ecological Restoration Workday • Missouri

Saturday, Feb 28th, 2009 @ 1pm-4pm

Kansas City, MO • Map

We will be focusing this winter workday on cutting down, treating and removing invasive and exotic woody plants that threaten three of Kansas City’s beautiful remnant natural communities. Three different locations: Blue River Parkway - Minor Park Access in KC, MO, Ogg Road prairie in Shawnee Mission Park, Shawnee, KS, and Hidden Valley in north KC, MO. This workday is for adults and older youth (11 and up, with adult supervision for youth under 15 years old). Snow date is set for March 7, 1-4pm.

Contact: Linda Lehrbaum (816) 561-1061 x116

Sponsor: KC Wildlands

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Feb 21st, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed. For details, please contact Frank Norman, KNPS Board Member (785) 887-6775 (home) or (785) 691-9748 (cell).

Sponsor:

The Natural History of the Lewis and Clark Expedition • Sedgwick County

Tuesday, Feb 17th, 2009

Wichita, KS • Map

7:30pm. Great Plains Nature Center in Wichita, KS. Program by Phil Thomas, Professor of History, WSU (316) 683-5499

Kaw Valley Eagles Day • Douglas County

Sunday, Jan 25th, 2009

Lawrence, KS • Map

10am-4pm. Lawrence, KS. Celebrate the return of the eagles and learn about the environment, Programs include information on area Bald eagles and other wildlife. Exhibitors will offer educational resources related to nature. The Jayhawk Audubon Society sponsors this event. Location: Free State High School, 1 block north of 6th & Wakarusa, Lawrence, KS. Contact Ed & Cynthia Shaw (785) 842-0475

KNPS Winter Board Meeting • Dickinson County

Saturday, Jan 17th, 2009

Abilene, KS • Map

12pm, Abilene, KS. Meet at the Kirby House Restaurant at 11am to eat; we're ordering from the menu. The meeting begins at noon. Our snow date is January 24. Contact KNPS (785) 864-3453

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Jan 17th, 2009

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. The Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs meet on the third Saturday of every month except December. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed. For details, please contact Frank Norman, KNPS Board Member (785) 887-6775 (home) or (785) 691-9748 (cell).

Sponsor:

Gardening with Prairie Plants • Nebraska

Saturday, Jan 17th, 2009

Lincoln, NE • Map

1-2pm. Lincoln, NE. Presentation by Bob Henrickson, Assistant Director of Horticulture Programs Nebraska Statewide Arboretum. Location: C. Y. Thompson Library, Computer Instruction Room, UNL East Campus, 38th & Holdrege St. Lincoln, NE. Contact Bob Henrickson (402) 472-7855

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Saturday, Nov 15th, 2008

Mayetta, KS • Map

Volunteers are needed for prairie maintenance and preservation projects. Assist the Grassland Heritage Foundation Groundhogs. Wear appropriate clothing. No special skills or tools needed. For details, please contact Frank Norman, Kansas Native Plant Society Board Member (785) 887-6775 (home) or (785) 691-9748 (cell).

Sponsor:

Papermaking Workshop • Shawnee County

Saturday, Nov 8th, 2008

Topeka, KS • Map

12pm at Karlyle Woods in Topeka, KS. Jeff Hansen, Kansas Native Plant Society Past President, will teach us how to make paper using native plant fibers. In this class we will learn the different types of plant fiber, the process of extracting the fiber from the plant, and the process of forming sheets of paper from the resulting fiber. We will work in teams of two with each team processing a different plant fiber into paper. The resulting paper will be shared equally among class members. Class runs from noon to 4pm. Karlyle Woods is located at 3440 NW Button Rd in Topeka. The cost of the workshop is $25 and is limited to 12 people (Ages 12 and up). All materials and equipment are provided. Food will also be provided. Please sign up by contacting Jeff Hansen (785) 806-6917.

Sponsor:

Prairie Maintenance at Snyder Prairie • Jackson County

Land Institute's 29th Annual Prairie Festival • Saline County

Friday, Sep 26th, 2008 to Sunday, Sep 28th, 2008

Salina, KS • Map

Salina, KS. The festival features speakers, art, music, dancing, guided prairie walks, bird watching, children's activities, and food. [www.landinstitute.org] (785) 823-5376.

Sponsor:

Wildflower Identification Class • Douglas County

Sunday, Sep 21st, 2008

Lawrence, KS • Map

Lawrence Public Library, 2:30pm Have you ever seen a wildflower but couldn’t identify it? There are nearly 2100 species of wild flowering plants growing in Kansas (1700 native, 400 introduced) so the task of identifying them can be daunting. But there are some simple steps to follow that can make you a pro at identifying wildflowers and other plants. A slideshow presentation will provide the foundation for learning identifying characteristics of plants. You will learn how plants are named and divided into family, genus, and species. Furthermore, you will learn about historical connections, interdependence of flowers and insects, medicinal and horticultural uses, and plant use by wildlife and livestock. After the presentation, we will venture to Prairie Park Nature Center to do some “hands on” prairie wildflower identification. Class sponsored by Grassland Heritage Foundation.

Summer Grant-Bradbury Evening Walk • Shawnee County

Wednesday, Jul 23rd, 2008 @ 7pm-dark

SW University Blvd & SW Westview Rd • Topeka, KS • Map

7pm. Join the Grassland Heritage Foundation on Topeka's premiere prairie park. This 80-acre tallgrass prairie includes over 300 plant species. So popular was the June walk, that attendees wanted to come back in July. Jeff Hansen will lead the tour. Directions: Take Topeka Blvd south to the University Blvd intersection (stoplight), take a right. Take University west about half a mile - when the road curves south, you are at the driveway to the park gate. There is a white utility building at the driveway to the park. (785) 806-6917

Contact: Jeff Hansen 785 806 6917