KANSAS BYWAYS PROGRAM SEEKS OPINIONS

Bicyclists, pedestrians encouraged to participate

TOPEKA ­– If you enjoy getting off the beaten path by walking or bicycling, then the Kansas Byways Program wants to consider your ideas for inclusion in a new Kansas Byways Bicycle

and Pedestrian Plan. The goal of the plan is to enhance bicycling and pedestrian opportunities for each of the state’s 11 scenic and historic byways.

The plan is being developed by a consulting team led by RDG Planning & Design, Omaha, and CFS Engineers, Topeka. The goal of the plan is to help make the state’s byways more accommodating to bicyclists and pedestrians. The diversity, character and manageable length of the byways makes them especially attractive to non-motorized users, clearly evidenced by the increasing interest expressed by these groups. A friendly, welcoming bicycle/pedestrian environment also offers economic opportunities for communities and regions along the byways.

To take the survey and learn more about the planning process, go online to www.rdgusa.com/crp/kansasbyways.   

To learn more about the 11 Kansas Byways, visit the website at ksbyways.org.

FALL RIVER RENDEZVOUS SEPT. 24

Park visitors will step back in time at this living history event
TORONTO — On Sept. 24, visitors to Fall River State Park have the opportunity to step back to the early 19th century at the Fall River Rendezvous. This historical event celebrates one of America's largest public land acquisitions, the Louisiana Purchase. Mountain men and American Indian encampments, blackpowder and archery shooting, tomahawk and skillet throws, living history presentations, and activities for all ages will be included.

Traders and artisans will ply their crafts, sell historical goods, and conduct demonstrations throughout the day. Contests for the whole family will make the day even more exciting.

The event coincides with Free Park Entrance Day at Fall River, so no daily vehicle permit is required. (Camping permits are still required.) The event runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The musical group Cedar Creek Crossing will perform live in concert on Friday, Sept. 23, and concessions will be available Saturday.

Enjoy the day learning about the 1800 to 1840 time period in American history. For more information, phone 620-637-2213 or email fallriversp@ksoutdoors.com.

Governor Declares June Great Outdoors Month

Proclamation highlights benefits of outdoor recreation

TOPEKA — Gov. Sam Brownback wants Kansans to get out and have some fun this summer. To this end, Brownback recently proclaimed June “Great Outdoors Month.” His proclamation reads as follows:

“WHEREAS, Kansas citizens have a proud tradition of both safeguarding the environment and enjoying the outdoors; and
“WHEREAS, a clean and sustainable environment contributes to our quality of life; and
“WHEREAS, outdoor recreation promotes health, fitness, and environmental awareness; and
“WHEREAS, outdoor recreation is an ideal way to exercise and enjoy memorable experiences with family and friends; and
“WHEREAS, it is up to all of us to maintain and enhance our legacy of environmental stewardship and enjoyment of the great outdoors; and
"WHEREAS, it is our duty to leave a well-tended legacy to those who will follow us;”
“Now, therefore, I, Sam Brownback, Governor of the State of Kansas, do hereby proclaim June 2011 as Great Outdoors Month and June 12, 2011, as Great Outdoors Day in Kansas and urge all citizens to join in this observance by taking the time to enjoy our state’s various state parks and outdoor activities, to share them with family and friends, and to make outdoor activities a regular part of their lives.”

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks offers 25 state parks, five nature centers, more than 40 state fishing lakes, and numerous wildlife areas for Kansans to enjoy and explore during the Great Outdoors Month. For more information on Kansas Department and Wildlife and Parks and outdoor opportunities, go online to www.kdwp.state.ks.us.