Flatlander Podcast

KDWP Wildlife Division Assistant Director - Research, Richard Schultheis, joins us to chat about the role scientific research plays in the conservation efforts of KDWP.Wildlife Research and Survey publications https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Research-PublicationsSummary of KDWP's harvest survey methodology at the commission meeting in Garden City:https://www.youtube.com/live/suijvMY1PnM?si=9wW3WvkUQxHJXuCx&t=1932Summary of KDWP's population surveys from the Commission meeting in Emporia: https://www.youtube.com/live/UNiEkR7D9Rs?si=8U39y6drPTo3drjA&t=5627Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

KDWP District Wildlife Biologist, Vickie Cikanek, joins us to chat about working lands for wildlife in the southern Flint Hills and Chautauqua Hills. We get into fun things like blackjack oaks, where trees belong, soil composition, big deer, trailer backing-up, shy snakes, Habitat First, fire culture, passenger pigeons, losing meadowlarks, what people get wrong about quail and deer, Kansas' outstanding landowners and hunters, and much more!Habitat First Program: https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Private-Landowner-Assistance/Wildlife-Biologists/Habitat-First-Program Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

The Kansas fall turkey season was suspended--what does this mean? What data informed the decision? Listen as we chat with Kent Fricke about turkey declines, ongoing and upcoming research, and the future of turkeys in Kansas.Kent was recently quoted in the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/23/us/turkey-population-declines-oklahoma.htmlLearn more about turkey seasons in Kansas here: https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Applications-and-Fees/Turkey  Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Hey Flatlanders! We've missed you. Co-hosts Tanna, Lyndzee, Laura, and Nadia (and Megan) are back on the mics and catching up after a hiatus. We're getting back into the podcast groove and starting with a hosts episode!  Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Tanna and Lyndzee are flying solo in this episode to talk about a program that is near and dear to their hearts. Becoming an Outdoors-Woman is a workshop focused on the learning of outdoor skills - skills usually associated with hunting and fishing, but useful for many outdoor pursuits such as foraging, backpacking, camping, outdoor cooking, boating, and more!HostsTanna Wagner, Lyndzee RhineSourcesBecoming an Outdoors-Woman KansasBOW Events Notification Sign-upInternational BOWFollow the BOW Facebook page for event updates and information.  Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

What's that...you haven't read the Kansas Water Plan yet? Fret not! Join us for an hour while we learn about Kansas reservoirs, irrigation, groundwater management districts, important meetings, local enhanced management areas, soil moisture probes, municipal water reuse, and some cool Kansans doing heroic things for water conservation. If you hunt, fish, eat food, or drink water in Kansas, this episode is for you! HostsLaura Mendenhall, Nadia MarjiSourcesKansas Water OfficeKansas Water AuthorityThe Kansas Water PlanBook RecommendationsRunning Out: In Search of Water on the High PlainsCadillac Desert: The American West and Its Disappearing Water Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Land and Water Conservation Fund GrantsFinding Trails in KansasHiking, Biking, Horseback Riding TrailsGet Outdoors KansasTrail LinkTravel Kansas Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

The Kansas Wildscape Foundation (KWF) was established by the Kansas Legislature in 1990, in coordination with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. They are an independent, 501(c)(3), tax-exempt foundation dedicated to raising funds to benefit wildlife and outdoor recreation activities in Kansas. Their mission, to create and promote outdoor opportunities in Kansas. Executive Director of KWF, Marc Murrell, visits us on Flatlander to tell us about the projects and programs that make up this amazing organization and how Kansans benefit.HostsTanna Wagner, Lyndzee RhineSourcesThe Kansas Wildscape FoundationKWF ProgramsKWF ProjectsKWF Fundraisers Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

This episode is chock full of trivia night factoids: the defunct mussel button industry, 30 miles of hand-laid limestone fencing, 1800's style refrigeration, prescribed fires, bison wallows, and the secret Flint Hills pronghorn herd. Join Laura and Nadia as they chat Flint Hills ecology and history with Brian Obermeyer,  Director of Protection and Stewardship at The Nature Conservancy in Kansas.  HostsNadia Marji, Laura MendenhallSourcesTallgrass Prairie National PreserveThe Nature Conservancy in KansasMy Flint Hills by Jim Hoy Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks operates four fish hatcheries across the state located at Farlington, Meade, Milford, and Pratt. Each contributes in its own way to supply the varied needs of Kansas anglers. This system produces approximately 39.5 million fry, 3.5 million fingerling, and 385,000 intermediate fish for stocking in Kansas public waters annually.Pratt Fish Hatchery manager, Brett Houdyshell, joins Lyndzee and Tanna to tell us about what goes on at Pratt's fish hatchery, how fry are artificially hatched, treated for disease, and readied for stocking or rearing ponds.HostsTanna Wagner, Lyndzee RhineSourcesLearn more about KDWP's fish hatcheries Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Zebra mussels! Carp! Giant snails! Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are animals and plants not native to Kansas that cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health. In this episode, Nadia and Laura, are joined by Vanessa Salazar, KDWP aquatic invasive species biologist, to talk about the aquatic invasive species currently found in Kansas, how they effect aquatic ecosystems, and what we should do to prevent or mitigate their spread.  HostsNadia Marji, Laura MendenhallSourcesKDWP Aquatic Nuisance SpeciesRecognize Aquatic Nuisance SpeciesClean. Drain. Dry. Don't Let It Loose Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Audubon of Kansas (AOK) is an independent grassroots nonprofit organization that promotes appreciation and stewardship of natural ecosystems in Kansas and the central Great Plains, with special emphasis on conservation of prairies, birds, other wildlife, and their habitat. It is neither funded nor administered by the National Audubon Society.AOK executive director, Jackie Augustine, joins Tanna and Lyndzee to talk more about the mission of AOK and the annual Kansas Lek Treks Prairie-Chicken Festival.HostsLyndzee Rhine, Tanna WagnerSourcesAudubon of Kansas Audubon of Kansas Facebook PageAOK Kansas Lek Treks and Prairie-Chicken Festival Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

This year 2023, marks the 50th anniversary of Kansas' Hunter Education Program! KDWP outdoor education supervisor and hunter education coordinator, Kent Barrett, sits down at the mic with Tanna and Lyndzee to tell us about the Hunter Education Program, its history, multiple learning environments, and how to get involved.HostsTanna Wagner, Lyndzee RhineSourcesKDWP Hunter EducationKansas Hunter Education Upcoming CoursesBecome an InstructorHunter Education in our Schools Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is an in-school program aimed at improving educational performance among students in grades 4 – 12. And through it, students are learning focus, self-control, discipline, patience, and the life lessons required to be successful in the classroom and in life.Flatlander host, Lyndzee Rhine, is our special guest in this episode! She coordinates the program for KDWP and shares what NASP is all about, how it's impacting students across the state, and how to get involved!HostTanna WagnerSourcesNational Archery in the Schools ProgramKDWP NASPNASP Upcoming ClassesNASP Kansas Regional CoordinatorsGary Keehn – NE KS Regional CoordinatorGary.Keehn@ks.govDave Adams – SE KS Regional CoordinatorDavid.Adams@ks.govJoyce Ellis – NE KS Regional CoordinatorJoyce.Ellis@ks.gov Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Wildlife viewing is among the fastest growing outdoor recreation activities in the United States. Wildlife agencies, including KDWP, are interested in gathering data about wildlife viewers (those who intentionally observe, feed, or photograph wildlife; travel to parks, protected areas, or other natural spaces with the purpose of feeding, observing, or photographing wildlife, and those who maintain plantings or natural areas for the benefit of wildlife) behaviors, experiences, perceptions, needs, and preferences. This information is essential for more meaningful and substantive engagement for state agencies with this often underserved constituency. KDWP wildlife diversity coordinator, Daren Riedle, shares with us a recent study that Kansas participated in to learn more about this significant group and how we can better serve them.  HostsTanna Wagner, Lyndzee RhineSourcesKansas Results of the Wildlife Viewer SurveyChickadee Checkoff ProgramWildlife Diversity - Facebook pageLearn More About Wildlife Watching Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

No stranger to the outdoors but rather new to hunting, Garrett Lyon shares his personal journey into becoming an adult on-set hunter. Join Tanna and Lyndzee as we learn about Garrett's perspective on how and why he chose to learn something new,  what it's meant for him so far, and as he recounts his first hunting experiences.HostsTanna Wagner, Lyndzee Rhine Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Today we're talking about big cats, and not the feline variety, with Ernesto Flores, KDWP Fisheries Biologist stationed in Emporia, Kan. Originally native to three rivers in Kansas, blue catfish now inhabit much of the water found in sunflower state. Blue catfish have the potential to reach “River Monster” status and are a great angling opportunity for those fishing in Kansas! Flatlander hosts, Nadia and Laura, learn about the big blue cat, their biology, and how KDWP manages populations. HostsNadia Marji, Laura Mendenhall Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Vamos a Pescar is a national grant-based program focused on introducing Hispanic families to fishing and providing resources for recreation. Today, hosts Laura and Nadia sit down with Patricia Saenz-Reyes and Phil Taunton, Vamos a Pescar organizers in Emporia, Kan. who tell us about their experience with the program and why it's an important resource for families in our state. HostsNadia Marji, Laura MendenhallSourcesVamos a Pescar National Website/Resources - SpanishTake me Fishing Website/Resources - EnglishHispanics of Today and Tomorrow (HOTT) Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Favorite duck hunting spot dry this year? Increased hunting pressure got you down? Learn about the state of waterfowl conservation in Kansas, what more needs to be done, and how you can help. Get informed, share your knowledge, and make a difference.HostsLaura Menhenhall, Nadia MarjiSourcesBecome a Member of Ducks Unlimited DU Events ListClimate Change and WaterfowlClimate Change Projections for Kansas Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

True stewards of the land, Keith and Eva Yearout, managers of Z-Bar Ranch in western southcentral Kansas, have spent more than 20 years ranching with the goal of bringing the land back to its native state while managing a sizable herd of bison.Hosts Laura and Lyndzee get an in-depth glimpse of life on the ranch and how consistent and evolving management practices have helped Z-Bar Ranch become a healthy habitat for their livestock and wildlife alike.HostsLaura Mendenhall, Lyndzee RhineSourcesZ-Bar RanchReintroducing Bison Results in Long-running and Resilient Increases in Grassland DiversityTree Encroachment on the Prairie Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.

Hey Flatlanders! Join us today as we learn about the many species of birds that call Cheyenne Bottoms home. Tanna and Lyndzee are joined on location at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center by Dr. Robert Penner, The Nature Conservancy, and Jason Wagner, Kansas Wildlife and Parks, to talk about shorebirds and migratory birds.HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesKDWP Waterfowl ReportPocket Guide - Shorebirds and Migratory BirdseBirdCheyenne Bottoms Kansas Wetlands Education CenterKansas Birding Facebook GroupSandhill Crane Identification TestSandhill Crane RegulationsDuck Stamp

In Kansas, the term "furbearers" encompasses a number of species, including badger, bobcat, beaver, gray fox, red fox, swift fox, mink, muskrat, opossum, otter, raccoon, striped skunk, and weasel. With abundant furbearer populations throughout most of Kansas, furharvesting opportunities abound. In fact, furbearers are probably one of our most under-utilized natural resources, and the benefits of their harvest are numerous. Regulated furharvesting during the legal seasons​ serves as the primary means of furbearer population and damage control. Flatlander hosts Tanna and Lyndzee sit down with James Svaty, KDWP wildlife biologist, to talk about​ the biological impact of trapping ​as well as the cultural and social importance of furharvesting in the lifestyles of many participants.HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesKDWP Furharvesting InformationKansas Furharvesting Licenses and PermitsRegulationsKansas FurbearersBest Management PracticesFurharvester Education CertificateKDWP Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations SummaryKDWP Commission Meetings

Spiders! They're typically misunderstood and tend get a bad rap but spiders serve a huge importance to an ecosystem and maintaining balance. Join Tanna and Lyndzee as we explore Kansas' eight-legged insects with Dustin Wilgers, Associate Professor of Biology at McPherson College, author, and spider expert. HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesSavannah Spider Book SeriesChickadee Checkoff8-Leg Education Facebook Page

The ring-necked pheasant, bobwhite quail, and two species of prairie grouse (greater and lesser prairie chicken) make up Kansas' coveted upland birds. In this episode, we're joined by Jeff Prendergast, KDWP small game specialist, to learn about these beautiful birds of the grasslands, their habitats, populations, management practices, and more. Jeff also gives us a sneak peek into this years Kansas Upland Bird Forecast for hunters. HostsLaura Mendenhall, Tanna FanshierSourcesKDWP Upland BirdsKansas Upland Bird Forecast

Wander Woman of Kansas is a diverse women's outdoor group who are engaged in the enjoyment of adventuring and exploring the outdoors. Founded in 2018, Wander Woman Kansas was developed to bring women together in a tough outdoor industry that can be difficult to navigate. Founder Jessica White joins us in the Flatlands to discuss her personal journey, the ins and outs of Wander Woman, and how women everywhere can participate in these unique outdoor opportunities.Whether you are an expert in outdoor sports, or have not had an opportunity, Wander Woman is here to make those outdoor bucket lists a possibility.HostsLaura Mendenhall, Nadia MarjiSourcesWander Woman of Kansas Wander Woman Facebook PageWander Woman Instagram Page 

Did you know that the largest wetland in the interior of the united states is located right here in Kansas? Tag along with Lyndzee and Tanna as they visit The Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC) in Barton County, KS to learn more about Kansas wetlands and all that the KWEC has to offer! The KWEC is a cooperative effort between Fort Hays State University and KDWP dedicated to educating the public about wetland ecosystems, with an emphasis on Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. In this episode, we're joined by Mandy Kern, KWEC program specialist and published children's book author, to learn about the purpose and mission of the KWEC, local wetlands and their inhabitants, and what to do while you're visiting. In a future episode, we'll meet up with KDWP Public Land Manager Jason Wagner and the Nature Conservancy in Kansas Avian Conservation Manager, Dr. Robert Penner, to dive deeper into the importance of our local wetlands for migratory birds. Stay tuned!HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesKansas Wetlands Education CenterAva: A Year of Adventure in the Life of an American AvocetDonate to KWECFollow KWEC on social media; Facebook, Instagram 

HostsLaura Mendenhall, Nadia MarjiSourcesKansas Fishing Regulations SummaryKansas Fishing AtlasFishing Reports and ForecastsCommunity Fisheries Assistance Program (CFAP)Urban Fishing Program

Chances are, if you live in or have passed through Kansas, you've heard of or passed by one of the 105 K-State Reach and Extension (KSRE) Offices across the state. Their mission:  improve Kansans lives, livelihoods and communities through education, research, engagement and leadership. Laura and Nadia are joined by Juju Wellemeyer, Natural Resource and Small/Mid-scale Agriculture Extension Agent at the Johnson County office to educate us about what KSRE does from education and resources for agriculture, food and health, lawn and garden, and more; and how outdoor enthusiasts can utilize their resources backed by data and science. HostsLaura Mendenhall, Nadia MarjiSourcesK-State Research and ExtensionExtension Master GardenersJohnson County Junior and Master NaturalistsVolunteer Programs Correction: Johnson County Extension Master Naturalists monitor more than 40 bluebird routes, consisting of over 530 boxes.

Bald Eagle populations in Kansas have grown considerably since 1989 when the first nest in Kansas was reported. In 2020, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks partnered with Conservation Science Global, the U.S. Geological Survey, and Evergy, to conduct a three year study to learn more about the movements of Kansas' bald eagles. Tanna and Lyndzee are  joined by Zac Eddy, KDWP Terrestrial Ecologist, and Dr. Tricia Miller, Executive Director at Conservation Science Global to tell us more about this exciting project, how it got started, and what we're learning about the movements of bald eagles. HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesConservation Science GlobalBald Eagle Telemetry Project - Kansas (CSG)Bald Eagle Telemetry Project - Kansas (KDWP)Chickadee CheckoffKDWP Wildlife Diversity Facebook page

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is proud to announce the launch of Go Outdoors Kansas – KDWP's all-new licensing and boat registration system designed to provide outdoor recreationists with an improved customer service experience. Tanna and Lyndzee are joined by Shanda Knapic, KDWP Chief of Licensing, who tells us what the new system is all about, what new features it has, and how you can start using it today!HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine, Sources Go Outdoors KansasPurchase Licenses, Permits, and TagsBoat RegistrationsLimited DrawsHarvest ReportingGo Outdoors KS Mobile AppAndroid DevicesApple/iOS DevicesCustomer Support Phone Number: 833-587-2164

Cast a line and hook a prize! The second annual Great Kansas Fishing Derby kicked off May 15, 2022 with more than 700 tagged fish ready for catching across 34 water bodies in the state.  David Breth, KDWP Sportfishing Education Coordinator, joins Tanna and Lynzdee to tell the tale of how the derby came to Kansas and what to expect this year and hopefully years to come. HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesDerby information, tag redemption, lake locations, sponsors, FAQ, and more;The Great Kansas Fishing Derby - EnglishThe Great Kansas Fishing Derby - SpanishFishing Reports and Tagged SpeciesWhere to Fish in Kansas2022 Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary

HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesPoison Pill: The Mysterious Die-Off of India's Vultures | Science History InstituteAmerican Burying Beetle | U.S. Fish & Wildlife ServiceCarrion flowers: Current Biology 

Did you know Kansas has its own endangered species law? Join hosts Laura and Lyndzee and special guest, biologist Ed Miller as we learn about the Kansas non-game threatened and endangered species law. We cover how the law came to be, why it is special and unique among the states, how it functions, how the public can get involved in the species listing process, and why it matters for anyone enjoying the outdoors.HostsLaura Mendenhall, Lyndzee RhineSourcesKDWP Threatened and Endangered WildlifeThe Chickadee CheckoffKDWP Wildlife Diversity Facebook page

Spring is in the air and many of us are thinking about what to plant in our yards. Let us help you decide! In this episode, Laura and Lyndzee are joined by Brad Guhr, educator at Dyck Arboretum of the Plains in Hesston, KS, to talk about the importance and advantages of incorporating native plants into your landscaping - and how to do it without upsetting your neighbors!HostsLaura Mendenhall, Lyndzee RhineSourcesDyck Arboretum of the PlainsNational Wildlife Federation Native Plant FinderGarden for Wildlife

The Fallen Outdoors (TFO) mission is to organize outdoor adventures for veterans past and present, from every generation and from all branches of the military. Robert Lovell, TFO Kansas team lead, joins Flatlander to share how this organization connects soldiers, airmen, sailors, and marines with like-minded individuals along with teaching them skills and passion they can continue for a lifetime.HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesThe Fallen OutdoorsThe Fallen Outdoors Midwest All Veteran Facebook Community PageThe Fallen Outdoors Facebook Support Page (open to all)The Fallen Outdoors Catfish Tournament - April 23 at Milford LakeConnect with The Fallen Outdoors Team KansasKDWP Track Chair (ASK Program)

We're bugging out with Amy Bousman, Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner at the Atma Clinic in Lawrence. Lyndzee and Tanna chat with Amy about entomophagy, the practice of eating insects,  to understand the role that insects can play in our evolutionary diets. Together we'll learn about entomophagy in  cultures around the world, the potential of insects to serve as the sustainable protein source of the future, and helpful tips for finding, cooking, and consuming these creepy crawlies turned culinary caches. HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesEat Like a Human – Dr. Bill SchindlerEating on the Wild Side – Jo RobinsonCricket FlourSustainable Protein Snacks

We're back with part two of our short series on civic engagement and in this episode we're talking about the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission. Listen to part one if you haven't already.Laura and Nadia are joined by KDWP Assistant Secretary, Mike Milller, and Commissioner Lauren Queal Sill, to learn about how the Commission works, how they set regulations, and also how we can get involved in making change. HostsLaura Mendenhall, Nadia ReimerSourcesAbout the CommissionContact CommissionersCommission Meetings (Dates and Agendas)Pending Draft Regulations

Who are the apex predators in Kansas? HostsTanna Fanshier, Laura MenhenhallSourcesFurharvester EducationWildlife SightingsWildlife Damage Control 

Things are getting wild! The animal kingdom is a fascinating place with a lot of mystery. Why do animals behave the way they do? Just in time for Valentine's Day we're gonna dive into the wild attractions of the animal kingdom; from bright colors and dancing displays to burping ducks and balls of snakes. Nadia and Lyndzee are joined by Daren Riedle, KDWP wildlife diversity coordinator, to learn more about these wild attractions!HostsNadia Reimer, Lyndzee Rhine

Join Tanna on her latest trip into the field as she spends some time with local outdoor women's group, wildHERness, on a women's waterfowl experience. Get to know the wildHERness team, a sampling of the event's enthusiastic participants, and the incredible impact the wildHERness group is having on aspiring outdoor women throughout the state and beyond, focusing on education, empowerment, and social support. Learn about the generosity of the group's partners, upcoming events, and how you, and/or the outdoor woman in your life can get involved and join these awesome females of the flatlands on their next big adventure.HostTanna FanshierSourceswildHERness WebsiteInstagram @_wildherness_ Facebook @wildHERness

Civic engagement can take many forms and getting involved or informed isn't as difficult as we once thought. In this episode of Flatlander, Laura and Nadia, sit down with Kansas Representative Mark Schreiber and KDWP Secretary Brad Loveless to learn more about how legislative decisions are made and more importantly how we as hunters, anglers, and recreationists can affect change.We get the inside track to how the Kansas Legislature works, how to find and connect with your state representatives, and simple ways we can stay up-to-date with and reach out to the decision makers in our state. SourcesKansas LegislatureKDWP Legislative UpdateKDWP CommissionReach out to KDWPHostsLaura Mendenhall, Nadia Reimer

If you're looking for an amazing hunting opportunity with low competition and high odds of success, look no further than the KDWP Special Hunts Program. KDWP Public Lands manager, Mike Nyhoff, joins the conversation to talk about this very special program which gives hunters unique opportunities with limited access to public and private lands in Kansas. Tanna and Nadia get the lowdown about how the Special Hunts Program got started, who can participate, what to expect, and more.HostsTanna Fanshier, Nadia ReimerSourcesKDWP Special Hunts Program

Flatlander Podcast hosts, Laura and Tanna, are joined by Chris Parish,Peregrine Fund President & CEO, and Leland Brown, Oregon Zoo Non-lead Hunting Education Coordinator to discuss the benefits, science , and effectiveness of using non-lead ammunition for hunting.The North American Non-Lead Partnership — formed in 2017 by the Oregon Zoo, The Peregrine Fund and the Institute for Wildlife Studies — seeks to expand the coalition of hunters, anglers and other conservationists dedicated to improving ecosystem and wildlife health by choosing non-lead options.HostsLaura Mendenhall, Tanna FanshierSourcesNorth American Non-lead Partnership

HostsLuara Mendenhall, Lyndzee RhineSourcesKansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (KAWS)How's My Water ShedHoward Fisk Meander Beltt (Mississippi River Map)Kansas Rivers Playa Lakes Joint Venture

Hey Flatanders! Tanna, Laura, Lyndzee, and Megan catch up with each other to talk about what's new and happening in their lives, outdoor goals, and honor the memory of a special member of the Flatlander family. HostsTanna Fanshier, Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine, Megan MayhewSourcesCWD ResourcesKansas Hunter Education OptionsKDWP Trout ProgramKS Ornithological Society

Where have all the birds gone? Let's go birding with Bob Gress, as he answers that question and many others on our pursuit to learn more about the avians that call Kansas their temporary home.HostsLaura Mendenhall, Lyndzee RhineSourcesBirds in FocuseBirdMerlin Bird IDiNaturalistGPNC Pocket Guides Larkwire

The Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors (PIOOM) Program is designed to match children with mentors who share an interest in outdoor heritage and promoting the enjoyment, understanding, protection, and restoration of our natural ecosystems. Flatlander hosts, Tanna and Nadia, are joined by PIOOM Director of Field Operations, Brittany French, to talk about this fantastic program, how it started, and how it's spreading opportunity and knowledge to kids across Kansas. HostsTanna Fanshier, Nadia ReimerSourcesPass it On! Outdoor MentorsFacebook - Outdoor MentorsInstagram - Outdoor MentorsKansas Hunter Education

With large wings bright orange coloring, the monarch is one of the most notable butterflies in the Americas, and also one of the most mysterious. From southern Canada all the way down to Mexico monarchs have a fascinating life cycle. Tanna and Lyndzee are joined by KDWP education specialist and resident monarch enthusiast, Pam Martin, to talk about monarch migration, identification, and ways we can encourage monarch population growth and habitat.  HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesMonarch Life Cycle VideoPocket Guide to Common Kansas ButterfliesJourney North (Migration maps and more)KU Monarch WatchHummingbird Drone VideoDyck Arboretum

Hey flatlanders! Today we're asking the "tough" questions like; how do we not only manage wildlife conservation but also foster advocacy in the people who are utilizing wildlife resources? What does this look like and why does it matter? To answer this, we need to understand the relationship between people and natural resources, and to understand that we need people like, Susan Steffen, human dimensions specialist at KDWP. HostsTanna Fanshier, Lyndzee RhineSourcesANS Certification CourseChronic Wasting Disease (CWD)Relevancy RoadmapAmerica's Wildlife Values Study

What's the Farm Bill and why should we care? In this week's episode, Tanna and Laura sit down with KDWP Wildlife Division Assistant Director, Wes Sowards, to talk about how private landowners in Kansas are using Habitat First and Farm Bill Conservation Programs to advance wildlife conservation goals in Kansas. As hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreationists, we all stand to benefit!HostsLaura Mendenhall, Tanna FanshierSourcesHabitat First ProgramFarm Bill Conservation ProgramsWildTrustFSA Conservation ProgramsConservation Reserve Program (CRP)