Enter Your Favorite Outdoor Photos in the 2015 Wild About Kansas Photo Contest

PRATT – The peak of summer and start of fall can provide stunning lighting and subject matter for outdoor photographers. Whether it’s a catfish fresh out of the water, a crimson sunset over a pasture, or a whitetail peeking through a tree line, Kansas Wildlife & Parks magazine staff want to see what makes you Wild About Kansas.

Photographers of all skill levels are encouraged to submit their favorite wildlife, outdoor recreation, and landscape photos before Oct. 23. There is no fee to enter, and the contest is open to both residents and nonresidents.

Photographers can submit up to three original photos taken in the state of Kansas. Photos must fit into one of the three categories – wildlife, outdoor recreation or landscape – and will be judged on creativity, composition, subject matter, lighting, and the overall sharpness.

First, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes will be awarded in each category, and one honorable mention per category will be named, as well. Winners will be featured in the 2016 Kansas Wildlife & Parks January/February photo issue.

Entries must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Oct. 23. An entry form must be submitted for each participant and can be obtained by visitingksoutdoors.com/Services/Publications/Magazine/Wild-About-Kansas. Photo format should be JPEG or TIFF and file size should be not less than 1mb and not more than 5mb.

For more information, visit ksoutdoors.com/Services/Publications/Magazine/Wild-About-Kansas, or contact contest coordinator Nadia Marji atnadia.marji@ksoutdoors.com.

Youth Outdoor Festival in Hays August 15

ELLIS – If you’re interested in introducing your child to the world of shooting sports, hunting, fishing and other outdoor-related activities, mark your calendar for August 15. Hays area businesses, conservation groups and shooting sports groups have teamed together to offer a free day of target shooting and outdoor activities for youth 17 and younger at the 18th Annual Youth Outdoor Festival. The event will be held Saturday, August 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hays City Sportsman's Club located 1/4 mile north of I-70 Exit 157.

Youth will learn about and experience trap and skeet shooting, archery equipment, air rifles and BB guns, muzzleloaders, small-bore rifles, and more. There will also be a BASS casting competition, paintball target shooting, and a furharvesting demonstration.

Youth will be closely supervised at each station by expert volunteer instructors, and all equipment will be supplied.

Hunter Education certification is not required, and youth must be accompanied by an adult.

Registration for the event can be completed onsite prior to participation. Lunch will be provided, and youth will have a chance to win prizes, including guns, fishing tackle and other outdoor equipment.

For more information, contact Kent Hensley at (785) 726-3212 or Troy Mattheyer at (785) 726-4212.

ENTER WILD ABOUT KANSAS YOUTH PHOTO CONTEST NOW

Sundown - February 24, 2010 - Kansas City (Photo credit: CoolValley)

Your next outdoor photo could land you in Kansas Wildlife & Parks magazine

PRATT – Whether it’s a snapshot of a peaceful moment fishing on the lake, the fiery colors of a Kansas sunset, or the image of a white-tailed fawn at rest, Kansas Wildlife & Parks magazine staff want to see Kansas outdoors through the lens of your camera. Photo submissions for the 2nd annual “Wild About Kansas” junior photo contest are being accepted now through Oct. 24, 2014. Participants can submit photos in three categories: wildlife, outdoor recreation or landscapes. There is no fee to enter, and the contest is open to both residents and nonresidents, age 18 or younger.

“Kansas is a state filled with a plethora of diverse and awe-inspiring natural resources, and this contest is just one more way we can enjoy and share those resources with others,” said Kansas Wildlife & Parks magazine associate editor, Nadia Marji.

Budding photographers can submit up to three photos and multiple entries may be submitted in the same category. Photos must be taken within the state of Kansas and must be the entrant’s original work. Each photo will be judged on creativity, composition, subject matter, lighting, and the overall sharpness. First, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes will be awarded in each category, as well as one honorable mention per category. Winners will be featured in the Kansas Wildlife & Parks January/February 2015 photo issue.

Entries must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Oct. 24, 2014. An entry form must be submitted for each participant. Photo format should be JPEG and a file size should be not less than 1mb and not more than 5mb.

For more information and entry forms, visit ksoutdoors.com/services, or contact Nadia Marji at nadia.marji@ksoutdoors.com.

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LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION GRANT APPLICATIONS DUE APRIL 30

Federal grant program helps fund local outdoor recreation projects

PRATT – The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) is accepting applications for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants through April 30, 2014. The federally funded program provides 50 percent reimbursement to selected outdoor recreation projects sponsored by cities, counties, and other appropriate public agencies. Since 1965, Kansas has received more than $50 million in LWCF funds to complete approximately 650 projects in nearly every county.

Grant application materials can be found on the KDWPT website, www.ksoutdoors.com, by clicking “State Parks” then “Grants.” Eligible projects include development and/or acquisition of outdoor facilities for the purpose of public recreation. Applications should provide clear evidence of public input and address recreation needs identified in the 2009 Kansas Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), which may be downloaded at ksoutdoors.com.

For more information about project eligibility or application requirements, contact Kyle Jackson, KDWPT LWCF grant coordinator at (620) 672-0740.

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KANSAS OUTDOOR RECREATION SURVEY 2013

State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan seeks public input

PRATT ­– As part of the State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is providing a forum and survey to learn more about what park-goers want.

Public input is desired on topics including managed park use, issues and needs, and the types of experiences park-goers hope to have in the future.

Public input gathered from the forum will be shared with the State Outdoor Recreation Plan Advisory Committee at their September meeting. The online forum, moderated by Dr. Sid Stevenson of Kansas State University, will focus on four topics during specific time frames:

June 21-July 4: Which outdoor recreation facilities are most in need of renovation or replacement at state and federal parks in Kansas to best enhance outdoor recreation experiences? Specific examples are welcomed.

July 5-July 18: Share a story of a meaningful outdoor recreation experience that you or your family had in Kansas and how the site where that experience took place contributed.

July 19-Aug. 1: Which of the following local outdoor recreation experiences would you like most to be within walking distance of your home (if you live in town)? Trails, picnic areas, sports venues, natural areas, playgrounds, etc.

Aug. 2-Aug. 15: Improved access to natural outdoor experiences, particularly those that are water-based, is important for urban dwellers. Please provide suggestions on how this can best be achieved and examples of success stories.

The Kansas Outdoor Recreation Needs and Issues survey, which is being offered in conjunction with the forum, will assist outdoor recreation planners and agency decision makers in developing strategies to address important issues facing outdoor recreation in Kansas over the next five to 10 years. Participants should expect to take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete the survey.

SCORP serves as a vision for outdoor recreation in Kansas. It is designed to meet the requirements of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (LWCF) which requires states to have an approved State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan on file with the National Park Service.

For more information, visit ksoutdoorrecreation.blogspot.com.

HAYS ORGANIZATIONS PLAN YOUTH OUTDOOR FESTIVAL

Shotgun, rifle, archery shooting and casting and furharvesting demonstrations highlight event
HAYS — On Aug. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Hays area conservation groups, businesses, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) will offer a free day of target shooting and outdoor activities for youth ages 17 and younger. The 15th Annual Youth Outdoor Festival will be held at the Hays City Sportsmen's Club, 1/4 mile north of I-70 off Exit 157.

All targets, shooting materials, and equipment will be supplied for the event. Trap, skeet, archery, air rifle/BB gun, muzzleloader, small-bore rifle, computerized laser shot target, and paintball shooting will be offered. Furharvesting demonstrations and a kids bass casting competition will complement the event.

This is an excellent opportunity to introduce youth to the world of shooting sports, hunting, and furharvesting. Hunter education certification is not required, but youth participants must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers specializing in their fields of shooting will closely supervise youth at each station. Registration for the event will be completed on site, and participants can enjoy a free lunch.

In addition to the free shooting opportunities and lunch, several door prizes, guns, fishing tackle, and other outdoor equipment will be given away. For more information phone Kent Hensley at 785-726-3212, email kent.hensley@ksoutdoors.com, or phone Troy Mattheyer at 785-726-4212.

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OUTDOORS-WOMAN WORKSHOP MAY 18-20

Image via Wikipedia

Through March 1, registration open to first-time participants only, then open to all; limited to 48 participants
PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s (KDWPT) Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program now offers a spring workshop to complement the traditional fall workshop that has been offered each year since 1993. This year’s spring workshop will be held May 18, 19, and 20 at Rock Springs 4-H Center, near Junction City, the same location as the fall workshop.

During the three-day workshop, volunteer instructors teach participants a variety of skills, including fishing, wingshooting, camping, orienteering, rifle marksmanship, botany, dog handling, archery, and other outdoor recreation in a friendly, supportive environment. Twenty-eight concurrent sessions will be offered, from hunting and fishing skills to camping, outdoor cooking, bird watching, orienteering, and wilderness survival. Mini-sessions will cover such topics as “Kansas critters,” outdoor first aid, campfire songs, and star gazing.

The $250 workshop fee includes seven meals, two nights lodging, instruction, supplies, and use of equipment. Based on financial need, three $100 scholarships are available for first-time participants. Email kansasbow@sbcglobal.net for scholarship details.

In addition to the scholarships, an essay contest will award one free entry to the workshop. Interested applicants must write a short paragraph (no more than 100 words) about why they want to become a Kansas Outdoors-Woman and post it as a comment online at blog.travelks.com under the story entitled “Win a women’s weekend in the Kansas Outdoors.” Entries are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17. A panel of judges will review all entries, and the winner will be posted onblog.travelks.com social media sites by Tuesday, Feb. 21. You must be 18 to enter.

Through March 1, only registrations from those who have never attended a BOW workshop will be accepted. After that, application is open to all women if spots are still available. For more information, go online to the KDWPT website,ksoutdoors.com, and click “Services/Education/Becoming-an-Outdoors-Woman” or phone 785-845-5052. While you’re at it, join the BOW on Facebook at Becoming An Outdoors Woman KANSAS.

Studies have shown that many women do not participate in outdoor recreation because they have not had an opportunity to learn the skills that make outdoor activities enjoyable. The popularity of BOW proves that when given the opportunity, many women take advantage of it with enthusiasm. Women who participate learn the outdoor skills that allow them to fully enjoy the natural environment while building self-confidence.

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HAYS ORGANIZATIONS PLAN YOUTH OUTDOOR FESTIVAL

Image via Wikipedia Shotgun, rifle, archery shooting and fishing and furharvesting demonstrations highlight event
HAYS — On Aug. 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Hays area conservation groups, businesses, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will offer a free day of target shooting and outdoor activities for youth ages 17 and younger. Called the 14th Annual Youth Outdoor Festival, the event will be held at the Hays City Sportsmen's Club 1/4 mile north of I-70, Exit 157.
All targets, shooting materials, and equipment will be supplied for the event. Trap, skeet, archery, air rifle/BB gun, muzzleloader, small-bore rifle, computerized laser shot target, and paintball shooting will be offered. Furharvesting demonstrations will complement the event.
This is an excellent opportunity to introduce youth to the world of shooting sports, hunting, and furharvesting. Hunter education certification is not required, but youth participants must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers specializing in their field of shooting will closely supervise youth at each shooting station. Registration for the event will be completed on site, and participants can enjoy a free lunch.
In addition to the free shooting opportunities and lunch, several door prizes, guns, fishing tackle, and other outdoor equipment will be given away. For more information phone Kent Hensley at 785-726-3212, email kent.hensley@ksoutdoors.com, or phone Troy Mattheyer at 785-726-4212.

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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.

KDWP OFFERING SPRING OUTDOORS-WOMAN WORKSHOP

Popular Becoming an Outdoors-Woman program now offered twice a year; applications for spring workshop now being accepted
PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks' (KDWP) Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program has become so popular that KDWP is offering a second, spring workshop to complement the traditional fall workshop that has been offered each year since 1994. This year’s spring workshop will be held May 13, 14, and 15 at Rock Springs 4-H Center, near Junction City, the same location as the fall workshop.

The program is designed to provide women a chance to learn about hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation in a friendly, supportive environment. During the three-day workshop, volunteer instructors teach participants a variety of skills, including fishing, wingshooting, camping, orienteering, rifle marksmanship, botany, dog handling, archery, and more.

“The fact that we have been filled to capacity three months before the fall workshop for the past two years demonstrates how much this fun and educational program connects women with the outdoors," says Ross Robins, KDWP's Education Section chief. "It also reflects well on long-time program coordinator Jami McCabe and on the skill and experience of our volunteer instructors.”

Studies have shown that many women do not participate in outdoor recreation because they have not had an opportunity to learn the skills that make outdoor activities enjoyable. The popularity of BOW proves that when given the opportunity, many women take advantage of it with enthusiasm. Women who participate in this program learn the outdoor skills that allow them to fully enjoy the natural environment while building self-confidence.

Registration for the May 2011 workshop is now open. The deadline for registration is April 15. Women wishing to ensure themselves a spot should mark their calendars and register early. For more information, go online tokdwp.state.ks.us/news/Other-Services/Education/Becoming-an-Outdoors-Woman or phone 620-672-5911.