Flatlander Podcast: Recent Episodes
KDWP & KWF
Flat is a state of mind! Get to know the people, science, and stories that make the Kansas outdoors more than flyover country.
At the Confluence of Diverse Users and Invasive Carp: the 2022 Kansas River User Survey
AIS Certification Course
Invasive Carp
One KC Cleanup
Follow the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks on Facebook and Instagram.
Follow the Kansas Wildlife Federation on Facebook and Instagram.
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-Publications
Summary of KDWP's harvest survey methodology at the commission meeting in Garden City:
https://www.youtube.com/live/suijvMY1PnM?si=9wW3WvkUQxHJXuCx&t=1932
Summary of KDWP's population surveys from the Commission meeting in Emporia:
https://www.youtube.com/live/UNiEkR7D9Rs?si=8U39y6drPTo3drjA&t=5627
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.
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.html
Learn 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!
Hosts
Tanna Wagner, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Kansas
BOW Events Notification Sign-up
International BOW
Follow 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!
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Nadia Marji
Sources
Kansas Water Office
Kansas Water Authority
The Kansas Water Plan
Book Recommendations
Running Out: In Search of Water on the High Plains
Cadillac 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 Grants
Finding Trails in Kansas
- Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding Trails
- Get Outdoors Kansas
- Trail Link
- Travel 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 Rhine
SourcesThe Kansas Wildscape Foundation
KWF Programs
KWF Projects
KWF 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.
Hosts
Nadia Marji, Laura Mendenhall
Sources
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
The Nature Conservancy in Kansas
My 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.
Hosts
Tanna Wagner, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesLearn 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.
Hosts
Nadia Marji, Laura Mendenhall
SourcesKDWP Aquatic Nuisance Species
Recognize Aquatic Nuisance Species
Clean. 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.
Hosts
Lyndzee Rhine, Tanna Wagner
Sources
Audubon of Kansas
Audubon of Kansas Facebook Page
AOK 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.
Hosts
Tanna Wagner, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
KDWP Hunter Education
Kansas Hunter Education Upcoming Courses
Become an Instructor
Hunter 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!
Host
Tanna Wagner
SourcesNational Archery in the Schools Program
KDWP NASP
NASP Upcoming Classes
NASP Kansas Regional CoordinatorsGary Keehn – NE KS Regional Coordinator
Gary.Keehn@ks.gov
Dave Adams – SE KS Regional Coordinator
David.Adams@ks.gov
Joyce Ellis – NE KS Regional Coordinator
Joyce.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 Rhine
SourcesKansas Results of the Wildlife Viewer Survey
Chickadee Checkoff Program
Wildlife Diversity - Facebook page
Learn 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.
Hosts
Tanna 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.
Hosts
Nadia 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.
Hosts
Nadia Marji, Laura Mendenhall
SourcesVamos a Pescar National Website/Resources - Spanish
Take 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.
Hosts
Laura Menhenhall, Nadia Marji
Sources
Become a Member of Ducks Unlimited
DU Events List
Climate Change and Waterfowl
Climate 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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesZ-Bar Ranch
Reintroducing Bison Results in Long-running and Resilient Increases in Grassland Diversity
Tree 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
KDWP Waterfowl Report
Pocket Guide - Shorebirds and Migratory Birds
eBird
Cheyenne Bottoms
Kansas Wetlands Education Center
Kansas Birding Facebook Group
Sandhill Crane Identification Test
Sandhill Crane Regulations
Duck 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
KDWP Furharvesting Information
- Kansas Furharvesting Licenses and Permits
- Regulations
- Kansas Furbearers
- Best Management Practices
Furharvester Education Certificate
KDWP Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary
KDWP 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Savannah Spider Book Series
Chickadee Checkoff
8-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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Tanna Fanshier
Sources
KDWP Upland Birds
Kansas 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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Nadia Marji
SourcesWander Woman of Kansas
Wander Woman Facebook Page
Wander 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!
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Kansas Wetlands Education Center
Ava: A Year of Adventure in the Life of an American Avocet
Donate to KWEC
Follow KWEC on social media; Facebook, Instagram
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Nadia Marji
Sources
Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary
Kansas Fishing Atlas
Fishing Reports and Forecasts
Community 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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Nadia Marji
Sources
K-State Research and Extension
Extension Master Gardeners
Johnson County Junior and Master Naturalists
Volunteer 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Conservation Science Global
Bald Eagle Telemetry Project - Kansas (CSG)
Bald Eagle Telemetry Project - Kansas (KDWP)
Chickadee Checkoff
KDWP 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 Kansas
- Purchase Licenses, Permits, and Tags
- Boat Registrations
- Limited Draws
- Harvest Reporting
Go Outdoors KS Mobile App
- Android Devices
- Apple/iOS Devices
- Customer 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesDerby information, tag redemption, lake locations, sponsors, FAQ, and more;
- The Great Kansas Fishing Derby - English
- The Great Kansas Fishing Derby - Spanish
Fishing Reports and Tagged Species
Where to Fish in Kansas
2022 Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesPoison Pill: The Mysterious Die-Off of India’s Vultures | Science History Institute
American Burying Beetle | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Carrion 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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
KDWP Threatened and Endangered Wildlife
The Chickadee Checkoff
KDWP 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!
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesDyck Arboretum of the Plains
National Wildlife Federation Native Plant Finder
Garden 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesThe Fallen Outdoors
The Fallen Outdoors Midwest All Veteran Facebook Community Page
The Fallen Outdoors Facebook Support Page (open to all)
The Fallen Outdoors Catfish Tournament - April 23 at Milford Lake
Connect with The Fallen Outdoors Team Kansas
KDWP 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesEat Like a Human – Dr. Bill Schindler
Eating on the Wild Side – Jo Robinson
Cricket Flour
Sustainable 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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Nadia Reimer
SourcesAbout the Commission
Contact Commissioners
Commission Meetings (Dates and Agendas)
Pending Draft Regulations
Who are the apex predators in Kansas?
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Laura Menhenhall
Sources
Furharvester Education
Wildlife Sightings
Wildlife 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!
Hosts
Nadia 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.
Host
Tanna Fanshier
Sources
wildHERness Website
Instagram @_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 Legislature
KDWP Legislative Update
KDWP Commission
Reach out to KDWP
Hosts
Laura 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Nadia Reimer
SourcesKDWP 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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Tanna Fanshier
Sources
North American Non-lead Partnership
Hosts
Luara Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (KAWS)
How's My Water Shed
Howard 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine, Megan Mayhew
Sources
CWD Resources
Kansas Hunter Education Options
KDWP Trout Program
KS 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.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesBirds in FocuseBird
Merlin Bird ID
iNaturalist
GPNC 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 Reimer
SourcesPass it On! Outdoor Mentors
Facebook - Outdoor Mentors
Instagram - Outdoor Mentors
Kansas 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Monarch Life Cycle Video
Pocket Guide to Common Kansas Butterflies
Journey North (Migration maps and more)
KU Monarch Watch
Hummingbird Drone Video
Dyck 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.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesANS Certification Course
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)
Relevancy Roadmap
America'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!
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Tanna Fanshier
SourcesHabitat First Program
Farm Bill Conservation Programs
WildTrust
FSA Conservation Programs
Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
Bats are fascinating mammals that play an important role in Kansas ecosystems. KDWP ecologist, Sam Pounds, joins Laura and Lyndzee on this episode to teach us about species of bats found in Kansas, bat habitat and reproduction, threats to bats, how to help bats, and what to do if you find yourself with a bat in your living room.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
GPNC Small Mammal Pocket Guide
Bats in Your Home
Build a Bat House
Chickadee Checkoff
Wildlife Diversity Facebook Page
Wildlife Diversity on Instagram
Zoonotic Diseases
Kansas Mammal Atlas (bat page)
KDHE Epidemiology Hotline
Hey Flatlanders! Want to get on the water but don’t know where to begin? We’ve got you!
KDWP boating education coordinator, Chelsea Hofmeier, joins us on Flatlander Podcast in our most recent episode and shares the 4-1-1 on boating, paddle sports, and what to know before you go out on Kansas waters.
Hosts
Tanna Fanshier, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Kansas Boating Education
Aquatic Nuisance Species Certification Course
Kansas Boating Access
More Information on Canoeing, Kayaking, Rafting, and Paddle Boarding
Have questions for Chelsea? Message us on Facebook!
Hey Flatlanders! Excitement and smiles are in the air as Laura, Lyndzee, Nadia, and Tanna come together in-person for the first time in a long while! Get to know the hosts of Flatlander as they share their most memorable outdoor experiences and challenges, what Flatlander Podcast is all about and future episodes to look forward to.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine, Nadia Reimer, Tanna Fanshier
Sources
iNaturalist Mobile App
Have thoughts about potential episode topics, interesting outdoors stories, or general comments? Reach out to us on Facebook Messenger!
Hey Flatlanders! Laura and Lyndzee are joined by Rachel Roth and Nicole Brown of non-profit conservation organization Grassland Groupies and hosts of educational comedy podcast, The Best Biome. Grasslands sometimes don't get the appreciation they deserve and we're here to change that! Dive into a sea of diversity as we talk about Kansas grassland history, conservation, wildlife, and more.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
Sources
Grassland Groupies
The Best Biome Podcast
Kansas Wildflowers and Grasses
Kansas Mammal Atlas
Laura and Lyndzee are joined by Dexter Mardis to chat about Kansas' snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, their importance in nature, how to interact if you come across them, and common misconceptions and myths that make them seem more scary than they are.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine
SourcesKansas Herpetological Society
Kansas Herpetofaunal Atlas
Kansas Herpetological Society Facebook Group
Snake Bite Assist Facebook Group
In this week's episode we sit down with Neosho County landowner and conservationist Rick Hines, and outdoorsman and land steward Brad Harris, to talk conservation and hunting in the Osage Cuestas of southeastern Kansas. Highlights include: Lyndzee's first turkey harvest, endangered mussel reproduction, pollinator gardening as a manly activity, no till farming, prairie strips, and managing for quail reproduction.
Hosts
Laura Mendenhall, Lyndzee Rhine, Tanna Fanshier
Sources
Harris Land Management - Instagram @harrislandmgt
Osage Cuestas Ecoregion
Neosho Mucket lure
More infoCover crops, filter strips, and no-till farming
Poison ivy and immune system
KDWPT e-Tagging/Harvest Report
This week Lyndzee and Nadia speak with Kyla Beavers of Beavers' Den Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Udall, KS about the age old question, "what do you do if you find an injured animal or wildlife that appears to be orphaned?"
Hosts
Lyndzee Rhine, Nadia Reimer
SourcesKansas Rehabilitators & Info
Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit Info
Beavers' Den Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
Want to help out Beavers' Den? Consider making a donation to help with food, shelter, veterinary bills, and more so they can keep caring for wildlife!
KDWPT's small game coordinator, biologist Kent Fricke, joins us to talk about turkey life history, translocation, nesting phenology, threats to turkeys, and how turkey tag limits are decided in Kansas. Come away with some good hunter safety tips, a couple new vocabulary words, and a conservation challenge for your next hunt!
Hosts: Tanna Fanshier and Laura Mendenhall
Sources
Kanas Turkey Hunting Unit Maps - https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/What-to-Hunt/Turkey
Environmental Stochasticity - https://kansaswildlifefederation.org/programs/conservationtalk/
HuntFish KS Mobile App - https://kshuntfish.app
Kansas e-Tagging - https://ksoutdoors.com/E-Tagging
Swap out those Easter eggs in your basket for morel mushrooms!
Go on an adventure with hosts Lyndzee, Tanna and special guest, Jeff Conley, as they unravel the mysteries of the morel mushroom. We discuss everything mushrooms from identification to a few favorite recipes, this episode will get you excited to explore the outdoors and find some for yourself.
Hosts: Lyndzee Rhine and Tanna Fanshier
Sources
Kansas Mushroom Pocket Guide - https://gpnc.org/pocket-guides/
Morel recipes and hunting locations - https://www.thegreatmorel.com/
Morel hunting tips from the pros - https://www.outdoorlife.com/articles/survival/2016/04/12-tips-finding-more-morel-mushrooms-spring/
Brad Loveless, Secretary of KDWPT and Steve Bender, Director of Conservation Partnerships for the National Wildlife Federation join us to talk about the 7 principles of the incomparable North American Model for Wildlife Conservation and how those principles translate on the ground here in Kansas. We talk bison pelts, the Lacey Act, hunting in Kenya, turkey tag limits, and diversity and inclusion in the outdoors. Walk away with some interesting facts to underpin your next wildlife discussion around the campfire.
Hosts: Tanna Fanshier and Laura Mendenhall
Sources
NA Model: https://www.fws.gov/hunting/north-american-model-of-wildlife-conservation.html
Hummingbird drone footage: https://www.pbs.org/video/watch-breathtaking-monarch-butterfly-swarm/
Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry: http://www.kshfh.org/
Flat is a state of mind! Get to know the people, science, and stories that make the Kansas outdoors more than flyover country. THIS is Flatlander Podcast presented by the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism and Kansas Wildlife Federation.
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism
https://ksoutdoors.com
Kansas Wildlife Federation
https://kansaswildlifefederation.org
Music by The Box Turtles
https://www.facebook.com/theboxturtles