Submitted<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743087460891.png" alt="Hays Catholic Youth Organization" />
 <figcaption>Hays Catholic Youth Organization</figcaption>
 </figure>

Miles of Mercy fundraiser to benefit Hays Catholic youth trip

By BILL FIANDER Insight Kansas

It’s not often the people of Kansas get to hold a “referendum” on state legislation. In fact, they can’t. At least not on their own.&nbsp;

Under our state’s constitution, we operate a representative democracy electing legislators to make decisions on our behalf and ultimately hold them accountable every 2-4 years. This&nbsp;indirect&nbsp;democracy can be viewed as a paternalistic relationship between electeds and electorate. A reassuring pat on the head from politicians that lawmaking is their province, and they will call us when needed.

So anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power on one issue, we should stand up and take note.

And anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power forever, we should stand up, take note, and run as fast as we can to our polling place before they change their minds.

Which is why we should really take notice of what the conservative-controlled legislature did last week when the required two-thirds majority passed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1611/">SCR 1611</a>, a proposed constitutional amendment asking&nbsp;voters on August 4, 2026, if we should elect (not just retain) our seven Supreme Court justices. Not only do we get invited to dinner, but it’s a permanent invite and we get to buy the groceries!

That is not to say electing the Supreme Court is totally advisable.

On its face, SCR 1611 is a de facto “referendum” on the current&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kscourts.gov/Judges/Become-a-Judge/Supreme-Court-Nominating-Commission">merit-based selection process</a>&nbsp;controlled by bar-appointed lawyers and governor-appointed citizens. Passed by 70% of the electorate in 1958 after Gov. Fred Hall’s infamous&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/get-involved/kansas-stories/people/tv-the-triple-play-and-the-man-from-dodge">triple-play scandal</a>, the system was enacted to keep Supreme Court selections free of corruption, moneyed interests, and political bosses.&nbsp;

But if you use your sunflower-colored glasses and squint through the Oz dust of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/19/kansas-house-endorses-plan-to-elect-supreme-court-justices-placing-question-on-august-2026-ballot/">debate</a>, you might also see a glimmer of hope…direct&nbsp;democracy!&nbsp;

Today,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ballotpedia.org/Initiative_and_referendum">26 states</a>&nbsp;provide for some form of direct, or pure, democracy that bypass legislatures with citizen-initiated ballot measures for new laws (initiatives) and/or vetoes (referendums) through collection of signatures (petitions). Laws without lawmakers.

Sadly, Kansas does not; Gov. Joan Finney was the last to earnestly push the issue in the early 1990s. Technically, SCR 1611 is not direct democracy either, but it’s close. It has no citizen-initiated lawmaking. But citizens gain a direct line to pick justices who enforce the biggest law (Kansas constitution) and the weightiest legal question of our time (women’s right to an abortion).&nbsp;

So why stop there?&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_036_0001.html">Kansas Constitution</a>&nbsp;already allows citizen-initiated ballot measures for cities, counties, and school districts.&nbsp;All adjoining states - Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, and Oklahoma - allow it; and all but five states west of the Mississippi.

Sixty-four percent states with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/about-state-legislatures/full-and-part-time-legislatures">part-time "citizen" legislatures</a>, like Kansas, allow it.

Most of all, big issues&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-final.10.28.24.v3-corrected-final-bullet-in-exec-sum-to-now-compare-2024-and-2023-results2.pdf">supported</a>&nbsp;by a majority of Kansans but ignored by legislative leadership - Medicaid expansion (72%), recreational marijuana (65%), a women’s right to choose (65%), assault weapon bans (55%) – could be put to a vote of the people once and for all.&nbsp;

Even Senate President, Ty Masterson (R-Andover), and expected 2026 gubernatorial candidate who led the charge for SCR 1611&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_fed_st_1/documents/testimony/20250225_01.pdf">believes</a>&nbsp;“it’s time to give the people the opportunity to assume that power and tear down firewalls and shine the light of democracy we all claim to support.”

I couldn’t agree more. If legislative leaders are truly ingenuous about tearing down judiciary firewalls for the people, their own firewalls should be next.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708024541249.jpeg" alt="Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BILL FIANDER Insight KansasIt’s not often the people of Kansas get to hold a “referendum” on state legislation. In fact, they can’t. At least not on their own.&nbsp;Under our state’s constitution, we operate a representative democracy electing legislators to make decisions on our behalf and ultimately hold them accountable every 2-4 years. This&nbsp;indirect&nbsp;democracy can be viewed as a paternalistic relationship between electeds and electorate. A reassuring pat on the head from politicians that lawmaking is their province, and they will call us when needed.So anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power on one issue, we should stand up and take note.And anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power forever, we should stand up, take note, and run as fast as we can to our polling place before they change their minds.Which is why we should really take notice of what the conservative-controlled legislature did last week when the required two-thirds majority passed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1611/">SCR 1611</a>, a proposed constitutional amendment asking&nbsp;voters on August 4, 2026, if we should elect (not just retain) our seven Supreme Court justices. Not only do we get invited to dinner, but it’s a permanent invite and we get to buy the groceries!That is not to say electing the Supreme Court is totally advisable.On its face, SCR 1611 is a de facto “referendum” on the current&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kscourts.gov/Judges/Become-a-Judge/Supreme-Court-Nominating-Commission">merit-based selection process</a>&nbsp;controlled by bar-appointed lawyers and governor-appointed citizens. Passed by 70% of the electorate in 1958 after Gov. Fred Hall’s infamous&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.humanitieskansas.org/get-involved/kansas-stories/people/tv-the-triple-play-and-the-man-from-dodge">triple-play scandal</a>, the system was enacted to keep Supreme Court selections free of corruption, moneyed interests, and political bosses.&nbsp;But if you use your sunflower-colored glasses and squint through the Oz dust of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/19/kansas-house-endorses-plan-to-elect-supreme-court-justices-placing-question-on-august-2026-ballot/">debate</a>, you might also see a glimmer of hope…direct&nbsp;democracy!&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ballotpedia.org/Initiative_and_referendum">26 states</a>&nbsp;provide for some form of direct, or pure, democracy that bypass legislatures with citizen-initiated ballot measures for new laws (initiatives) and/or vetoes (referendums) through collection of signatures (petitions). Laws without lawmakers.Sadly, Kansas does not; Gov. Joan Finney was the last to earnestly push the issue in the early 1990s. Technically, SCR 1611 is not direct democracy either, but it’s close. It has no citizen-initiated lawmaking. But citizens gain a direct line to pick justices who enforce the biggest law (Kansas constitution) and the weightiest legal question of our time (women’s right to an abortion).&nbsp;So why stop there?&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch25/025_036_0001.html">Kansas Constitution</a>&nbsp;already allows citizen-initiated ballot measures for cities, counties, and school districts.&nbsp;All adjoining states - Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, and Oklahoma - allow it; and all but five states west of the Mississippi.Sixty-four percent states with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/about-state-legislatures/full-and-part-time-legislatures">part-time "citizen" legislatures</a>, like Kansas, allow it.Most of all, big issues&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-final.10.28.24.v3-corrected-final-bullet-in-exec-sum-to-now-compare-2024-and-2023-results2.pdf">supported</a>&nbsp;by a majority of Kansans but ignored by legislative leadership - Medicaid expansion (72%), recreational marijuana (65%), a women’s right to choose (65%), assault weapon bans (55%) – could be put to a vote of the people once and for all.&nbsp;Even Senate President, Ty Masterson (R-Andover), and expected 2026 gubernatorial candidate who led the charge for SCR 1611&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_fed_st_1/documents/testimony/20250225_01.pdf">believes</a>&nbsp;“it’s time to give the people the opportunity to assume that power and tear down firewalls and shine the light of democracy we all claim to support.”I couldn’t agree more. If legislative leaders are truly ingenuous about tearing down judiciary firewalls for the people, their own firewalls should be next.Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Insight Kansas: Electing the Supreme Court? Why stop there?

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743171212209.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NOTES WEEK OF March 31 – April 4, 2025

THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE!

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS…. SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!

--March 31 • Spring Music Concert for grades KP, K, 1st &amp; 2nd at 6:30 p.m. in the TMP-M Fieldhouse. • Tomorrow our Spring Dress Code resumes! Students may start wearing shorts again, or skirts without leggings underneath!&nbsp;

--April 1 • Spring Dress Code starts today. • We will have a Fire Drill after announcements. • 1A will have a special presentation about China at 10:30.

--April 2 • Memorial of St. Francis of Paola, Hermit. Spirit Day. • Para Appreciation Day! We are grateful for all of our paras: Miss Shaylee, Ms. Brenda, Ms. Meg, Ms. Sara, Ms. Clara, Ms. Courtney, Mr. Danny, Mrs. Schulte, Mrs. Schrant, Miss Laken and Ms. Judy Flax! They are the teacher’s sidekicks, helping with duties, supervision, grading, scanning copies, and they help keep the day-to-day running smoothly! Be sure to thank them today!! • Famous Figures Preliminaries for 5th grade 8:45 a.m. in L.T. • There’s an all-school assembly starting at 2:00 in the L.T. about celebrating KS &amp; the Prairies. • &nbsp;Joyful Noise Choir meets at 2:45 p.m.&nbsp;

--April 3 • TMP students will visit 4B today. • Sr. Rose Marie will visit 5th grade at 2:30 p.m.

--April 4 • Memorial of St. Isidore, Bishop and Doctor of the Church. • 2nd Grade Pajama Day for a feed the pig prize. • First Friday Prayer Circles this morning – teachers can take their attendance &amp; lunch count now and we’ll come over the intercom when it’s time for the students to head to their spots. • Stations of the Cross at 2:35 p.m. at IHM. • Students, next week is our Lenten Canned Food Drive! Go through your cabinets and pantry at home and see if you can find a few items to bring to school in a sack for the families in need! All items will be donated to the St. Joseph Food Pantry and Diaper Closet!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737555085782.png" alt="Holy Family Elementary School, Hays. File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Holy Family Elementary School, Hays. File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>HOLY FAMILY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NOTES WEEK OF March 31 – April 4, 2025THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE!CATHOLIC SCHOOLS…. SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!MONDAY--March 31 • Spring Music Concert for grades KP, K, 1st &amp; 2nd at 6:30 p.m. in the TMP-M Fieldhouse. • Tomorrow our Spring Dress Code resumes! Students may start wearing shorts again, or skirts without leggings underneath!&nbsp; TUESDAY--April 1 • Spring Dress Code starts today. • We will have a Fire Drill after announcements. • 1A will have a special presentation about China at 10:30. WEDNESDAY--April 2 • Memorial of St. Francis of Paola, Hermit. Spirit Day. • Para Appreciation Day! We are grateful for all of our paras: Miss Shaylee, Ms. Brenda, Ms. Meg, Ms. Sara, Ms. Clara, Ms. Courtney, Mr. Danny, Mrs. Schulte, Mrs. Schrant, Miss Laken and Ms. Judy Flax! They are the teacher’s sidekicks, helping with duties, supervision, grading, scanning copies, and they help keep the day-to-day running smoothly! Be sure to thank them today!! • Famous Figures Preliminaries for 5th grade 8:45 a.m. in L.T. • There’s an all-school assembly starting at 2:00 in the L.T. about celebrating KS &amp; the Prairies. • &nbsp;Joyful Noise Choir meets at 2:45 p.m.&nbsp; THURSDAY--April 3 • TMP students will visit 4B today. • Sr. Rose Marie will visit 5th grade at 2:30 p.m.FRIDAY--April 4 • Memorial of St. Isidore, Bishop and Doctor of the Church. • 2nd Grade Pajama Day for a feed the pig prize. • First Friday Prayer Circles this morning – teachers can take their attendance &amp; lunch count now and we’ll come over the intercom when it’s time for the students to head to their spots. • Stations of the Cross at 2:35 p.m. at IHM. • Students, next week is our Lenten Canned Food Drive! Go through your cabinets and pantry at home and see if you can find a few items to bring to school in a sack for the families in need! All items will be donated to the St. Joseph Food Pantry and Diaper Closet!

Holy Family Elementary School notes, March 31-April 4, 2025

💰 Cash Grab begins Monday!

By MARSHA BOSWELL Kansas Wheat

Kansas wheat growers know that success starts with strong, resilient varieties. Few understand this better than Dr. Guorong Zhang, a wheat breeder at Kansas State University's Agricultural Research Center in Hays. 

In a recent episode of the&nbsp;Wheat’s On Your Mind&nbsp;podcast, Zhang discussed his breeding philosophy, career path, and the future of wheat development in Kansas.

Zhang’s journey began on a small farm in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, where his family farmed rice and jute on less than an acre. After studying at Zhejiang Agriculture University, he spent time in barley research before coming to the U.S. for a Ph.D. in plant breeding at North Dakota State. That experience led him through research roles in soybean and biofuel crops, and eventually to K-State in 2012, where he took over the Hays breeding program.

“At the beginning, yield was my main focus,” Zhang said. “Farmers need high-yielding varieties to be profitable. Over time, I added more objectives—disease resistance, drought tolerance, and quality.”

His program has produced widely adopted varieties including Joe, KS Dallas, and KS Bill Snyder. Named in honor of the Hall of Fame football coach, the Snyder variety gained attention for its strong yield potential and broad adaptability. Zhang continues refining its drought tolerance as part of ongoing improvements.

Kansas weather has created some of Zhang’s toughest hurdles. In 2021, a hailstorm destroyed up to 80% of his trial plots in Hays, setting the program back significantly. These experiences have reinforced his focus on resilience in both environmental and disease-related stress.

“We’re getting better data, faster,” Zhang said, referencing the integration of double haploid breeding and drone phenotyping into his program. “The goal is to develop varieties that can handle both environmental stress and disease pressure.”

Field testing takes place across eight locations in western Kansas, including five farmer-managed sites. These trials give Zhang’s team insight into how lines perform under real-world growing conditions. He values the feedback received during field days and uses it to refine breeding goals for future releases.

“The western Kansas variety has strong resistance to Triticum mosaic virus and wheat streak mosaic virus, as well as improved drought tolerance,” Zhang said of two new releases expected this year. “The central Kansas variety has exceptional yield potential and strong disease resistance.”

His breeding program also includes collaborative work with universities like Colorado State to tackle new threats like wheat stem sawfly. Together, they evaluate new lines and share research data to speed up resistance development for high-risk regions.

Even as technology and challenges evolve, Zhang stays grounded in the basics: better yield, better disease resistance, and better quality. “We want Kansas farmers to have access to the best possible wheat varieties,” he said.

For more on Dr. Guorong Zhang’s breeding program and other updates, visit<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5mYuSdv0uS-YQ==&amp;c=rAuDAM2NJjheh99zblzD0eo0KXAbs6AqigzmRWTC_saeT1SGyamiJw==&amp;ch=yzcK-OF5ImhlN8Dqv08tckxKse54IWi1nOETYKxSnets6ZLlayIP6Q==">&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5l9DTY8Rc6Dog==&amp;c=rAuDAM2NJjheh99zblzD0eo0KXAbs6AqigzmRWTC_saeT1SGyamiJw==&amp;ch=yzcK-OF5ImhlN8Dqv08tckxKse54IWi1nOETYKxSnets6ZLlayIP6Q==">kswheat.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743083611783.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MARSHA BOSWELL Kansas WheatKansas wheat growers know that success starts with strong, resilient varieties. Few understand this better than Dr. Guorong Zhang, a wheat breeder at Kansas State University's Agricultural Research Center in Hays. In a recent episode of the&nbsp;Wheat’s On Your Mind&nbsp;podcast, Zhang discussed his breeding philosophy, career path, and the future of wheat development in Kansas.Zhang’s journey began on a small farm in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, where his family farmed rice and jute on less than an acre. After studying at Zhejiang Agriculture University, he spent time in barley research before coming to the U.S. for a Ph.D. in plant breeding at North Dakota State. That experience led him through research roles in soybean and biofuel crops, and eventually to K-State in 2012, where he took over the Hays breeding program.“At the beginning, yield was my main focus,” Zhang said. “Farmers need high-yielding varieties to be profitable. Over time, I added more objectives—disease resistance, drought tolerance, and quality.”His program has produced widely adopted varieties including Joe, KS Dallas, and KS Bill Snyder. Named in honor of the Hall of Fame football coach, the Snyder variety gained attention for its strong yield potential and broad adaptability. Zhang continues refining its drought tolerance as part of ongoing improvements.Kansas weather has created some of Zhang’s toughest hurdles. In 2021, a hailstorm destroyed up to 80% of his trial plots in Hays, setting the program back significantly. These experiences have reinforced his focus on resilience in both environmental and disease-related stress.“We’re getting better data, faster,” Zhang said, referencing the integration of double haploid breeding and drone phenotyping into his program. “The goal is to develop varieties that can handle both environmental stress and disease pressure.”Field testing takes place across eight locations in western Kansas, including five farmer-managed sites. These trials give Zhang’s team insight into how lines perform under real-world growing conditions. He values the feedback received during field days and uses it to refine breeding goals for future releases.“The western Kansas variety has strong resistance to Triticum mosaic virus and wheat streak mosaic virus, as well as improved drought tolerance,” Zhang said of two new releases expected this year. “The central Kansas variety has exceptional yield potential and strong disease resistance.”His breeding program also includes collaborative work with universities like Colorado State to tackle new threats like wheat stem sawfly. Together, they evaluate new lines and share research data to speed up resistance development for high-risk regions.Even as technology and challenges evolve, Zhang stays grounded in the basics: better yield, better disease resistance, and better quality. “We want Kansas farmers to have access to the best possible wheat varieties,” he said.For more on Dr. Guorong Zhang’s breeding program and other updates, visit<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5mYuSdv0uS-YQ==&amp;c=rAuDAM2NJjheh99zblzD0eo0KXAbs6AqigzmRWTC_saeT1SGyamiJw==&amp;ch=yzcK-OF5ImhlN8Dqv08tckxKse54IWi1nOETYKxSnets6ZLlayIP6Q==">&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5l9DTY8Rc6Dog==&amp;c=rAuDAM2NJjheh99zblzD0eo0KXAbs6AqigzmRWTC_saeT1SGyamiJw==&amp;ch=yzcK-OF5ImhlN8Dqv08tckxKse54IWi1nOETYKxSnets6ZLlayIP6Q==">kswheat.com</a>.

Hays' Guorong Zhang talks breeding better wheat on Wheat Scoop

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

A Kansas Forest Service official is urging Kansans to be on the lookout for a pair of invasive species that threaten the state’s forests and ecosystems by pushing out native vegetation.

Ryan Rastok, the forest health coordinator with KFS, said Callery pear and bush honeysuckle are especially meddlesome this time of year.

“I was flying back from Georgia into Kansas City recently and as we were flying into the airport, I could see an abundance of Callery pear, even from the plane,” Rastok said.

For a brief time – often in early April – the Callery pear puts on a stunning display of white flowers. But behind the beauty belies a menace.

Native to China, the Callery pear includes 26 cultivars that present significant ecological concerns in Kansas and Missouri. Among them:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It displaces native trees and plants in the wild, which lowers ecologocial biodiversity. The tree does not host native pollinators. · It leafs out before woodland wildflowers emerge from dormancy, robbing them of critical sunlight and preventing their growth. · Its’ egg-shaped structure – at heights of 30-40 feet – and brittle wood make it prone to falling limbs that can damage people and property.

“Yeah, there’s been a myriad of descriptions for the smell, most of them vile and maybe some not appropriate to say out loud,” he said.

Bush Honeysuckle is another invasive that Rastok urges homeowners to identify and remove. The shrub spreads up to 15-20 feet in height with flowers that change from white to yellow; juicy red berries; and opposite, simple leaves that green up much earlier than surrounding native vegetation.

The shrub typically flowers in May or June, and unlike the Callery pear, is more fragrant.

Rastok said not counting such human activities as &nbsp;urban sprawl and others, bush honeysuckle “is the biggest threat to our native forests and ecosystems in Kansas, and it’s continuing to spread so we need to keep the pressure on that one, as well. The biggest issue right now is that it’s starting to establish in the state’s woodlands where it will eventually push out our native vegetation…it simplifies the ecosystem by lowering its overall floral and faunal diversity.”

Neither the Callery pear nor the bush honeysuckle are easily managed by prescribed burning, Rastok said. 

More information on controls, and options for replenishing areas where trees have been removed, is available from the Kansas Forest Service at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasforests.org/">www.kansasforests.org</a>.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictA Kansas Forest Service official is urging Kansans to be on the lookout for a pair of invasive species that threaten the state’s forests and ecosystems by pushing out native vegetation.Ryan Rastok, the forest health coordinator with KFS, said Callery pear and bush honeysuckle are especially meddlesome this time of year.“I was flying back from Georgia into Kansas City recently and as we were flying into the airport, I could see an abundance of Callery pear, even from the plane,” Rastok said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742917001894.png" alt="Callery or Bradford pear tree. Photo by Kelly Oten/North Carolina State Extension" />
 <figcaption>Callery or Bradford pear tree. Photo by Kelly Oten/North Carolina State Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>For a brief time – often in early April – the Callery pear puts on a stunning display of white flowers. But behind the beauty belies a menace.Native to China, the Callery pear includes 26 cultivars that present significant ecological concerns in Kansas and Missouri. Among them:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It displaces native trees and plants in the wild, which lowers ecologocial biodiversity. The tree does not host native pollinators. · It leafs out before woodland wildflowers emerge from dormancy, robbing them of critical sunlight and preventing their growth. · Its’ egg-shaped structure – at heights of 30-40 feet – and brittle wood make it prone to falling limbs that can damage people and property.And, Rastok says, it smells.“Yeah, there’s been a myriad of descriptions for the smell, most of them vile and maybe some not appropriate to say out loud,” he said.Bush Honeysuckle is another invasive that Rastok urges homeowners to identify and remove. The shrub spreads up to 15-20 feet in height with flowers that change from white to yellow; juicy red berries; and opposite, simple leaves that green up much earlier than surrounding native vegetation.The shrub typically flowers in May or June, and unlike the Callery pear, is more fragrant.Rastok said not counting such human activities as &nbsp;urban sprawl and others, bush honeysuckle “is the biggest threat to our native forests and ecosystems in Kansas, and it’s continuing to spread so we need to keep the pressure on that one, as well. The biggest issue right now is that it’s starting to establish in the state’s woodlands where it will eventually push out our native vegetation…it simplifies the ecosystem by lowering its overall floral and faunal diversity.”Neither the Callery pear nor the bush honeysuckle are easily managed by prescribed burning, Rastok said. More information on controls, and options for replenishing areas where trees have been removed, is available from the Kansas Forest Service at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasforests.org/">www.kansasforests.org</a>.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Invasive Callery pear trees

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">BEK SHACKELFORD-NWANGANGA and ROSE CONLON</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-25/kansas-lawmakers-want-to-loosen-vaccine-requirements-amid-a-measles-outbreak-in-the-state">Kansas News Service</a>

At least 23 Kansans have tested positive for measles. Health officials urge full vaccination against the disease.

An outbreak of measles in southwest Kansas continues to grow.&nbsp;<a href="https://kshealthdata.kdhe.ks.gov/t/KDHE/views/InfectiousDiseaseCaseDashboard/DiseaseCharts?%3Aembed=y&amp;%3AisGuestRedirectFromVizportal=y" target="_blank">State health data shows</a>&nbsp;23 people in six counties have tested positive for measles since the start of this year. Data released on Wednesday showed the number of cases and counties affected by the spread have doubled.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1483" target="_blank">reported a measles case in Stevens County March 13</a>, stating it was the first measles case in Kansas since 2018. But the state’s measles dashboard also shows two cases, one in January and one in February. A state health department spokesperson said those cases were “retrospectively identified” and part of the current outbreak. The eight other cases were recorded this month.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said during a health conference in Wichita that state officials are closely monitoring the outbreak and are ensuring infected people are isolated. She also urged Kansans to get vaccinated.

“They are safe and effective,” Kelly said. “I have two kids. They were both vaccinated. They are alive and well.”

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html" target="_blank">The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classify a measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;as three or more cases linked to each other. This makes Kansas one of the most recent states with a measles outbreak.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-2025" target="_blank">Texas has the largest outbreak</a>, with more than 300 cases of the measles. Health experts say the disease can lead to serious complications, hospitalization or death.

The CDC has confirmed one death amid the outbreak in Texas. In New Mexico, health officials are investigating the cause of death for a person who tested positive for measles.

The ongoing spread of the illness in Kansas comes as state lawmakers in Topeka are considering a bill that includes loosening vaccine requirements in child care regulations.

The bill is aimed at reducing specific fees and training requirements for early child care facilities. But a provision expands religious exemptions for vaccines that are required for child care programs. The Kansas House recently approved the bill with bipartisan support.

Kansas vaccine advocates argue the requirement changes could reduce vaccine rates amid a growing public health issue.

“The more unvaccinated children you have in a setting, the more likely it is that measles or whatever will go through the population,” said Rabbi Moti Rieber, executive director for Kansas Interfaith Action.

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious infection caused by a virus. It spreads through the air.

Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection and prevention at the University of Kansas Health System, said the illness can linger in the air for up to two hours. He said he expects to see the number of cases in Kansas rise because of how easy measles spreads.

“With the decrease in overall vaccine rates, I think we have to expect there to be more cases,” he said, “Just because the less people vaccinated means more people that are susceptible to the disease.”

Hawkinson said measles can potentially cause severe health problems, like pneumonia. In rare cases, it can lead to brain damage and deafness. He said one in five people who contract measles are hospitalized and it can be deadly.

“This can be a very devastating disease,” Hawinkson said. “It is unfortunate because we know we have the best proactive safety measure, and that is the vaccine.”

State health officials say nine of the 10 Kansans who tested positive for measles were unvaccinated, and one was under vaccinated.

Hawkinson said measles symptoms typically start like a common cold. An infected person may have a fever, sore throat, runny nose and mild cough. About two to three days later, the person may develop white&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/measles/symptoms-causes/syc-20374857" target="_blank">spots in their mouth, known as Koplik spots</a>. About three to five days later, the person will develop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/photos.html" target="_blank">a red, splotchy rash</a>, which Hawksinson said usually starts on a person’s head and face and then spreads downward.

<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/measles-keeping-family-safe.html" target="_blank">Experts say if you suspect you or your child has measles</a>, it’s best for them to stay home away from other people. Hawkinson said it’s also important to call ahead before bringing someone with a possible infection to the doctor, emergency room or urgent care.

“It is really best to call ahead so that they can take those preparations into account, so that they can protect other people in those areas,” he said.

The state health department website has more information about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1501/Measles-Rubeola#:~:text=Providers%20%26%20LHD%20Resources%20Table%20Section,not%20wait%20for%20test%20results." target="_blank">measles and what to watch for.</a>

Hawkinson encourages full vaccination against measles as the best way to avoid contracting the illness.

“We have a vaccine that has been used for five to six decades,” Hawkinson said. “It has a great history of safety. It has a great history of effectiveness at preventing disease and especially the complications of disease.”

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fvpd%2Fmmr%2Fpublic%2Findex.html" target="_blank">There are two types of vaccines for measles</a>: MMR and MMRV. Children need two doses of either vaccine to be fully protected against measles. The first dose should be administered when a child is between 12 and 15 months old and the second should be when a child is between four and six years old. However, the MMVR second dose can be administered as early as 3 months after the first dose.

Hawkinson said now is a good time to check you and your family’s vaccination status. He said unvaccinated children and adults or people who didn’t receive both doses of the vaccine should consider getting them now.

For the public to be safe from the measles, about 95% of the community needs to be vaccinated against the disease,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html#:~:text=Why%20is%20there%20more%20measles,returning%20to%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">the CDC says</a>. About 90% of Kansans are vaccinated for measles.

In recent years, state lawmakers have challenged vaccine requirements in the state.

The Kansas House recently approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2294/?link_id=1&amp;can_id=ddf8202ea341214def057893c988d994&amp;source=email-action-alert-tell-your-house-member-to-protect-the-kansas-supreme-court&amp;email_referrer=email_2662630&amp;email_subject=action-alert-on-childhood-immunizations&amp;&amp;" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing or eliminating fees and training requirements for child care facilities. That bill includes a provision that adds moral and ethical opposition to the definition of religious exemptions for vaccines that children are required to get before attending child care programs.

Rieber said the change is reckless. He said most major religions approve of vaccines.

“In anti-vax sentiment, sometimes it’s called 'religious' but actually, it is more about people’s fears,” Rieber said. “There’s not really a religious basis for it.”

Rieber said changing the definition of religious exemption for vaccine requirements at childcare facilities could also open the door to changes for K-12 public schools, which require several other vaccines for children.

Rieber said he supports expanding access to affordable child care in Kansas, but the amendment could harm vaccinated and unvaccinated kids.

“The biggest issue is the potential for this to be a precedent that would then take away the ability of the school or the facility to actually protect their children by not allowing unvaccinated children to be in the setting,” he said.

Lawmakers on the House floor did not discuss the details of the bill or the reasons to include the vaccine exemption changes before voting to approve it. The bill is now in the Senate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743085628490.png" alt="A rash caused by the measles on a child's face. Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" />
 <figcaption>A rash caused by the measles on a child's face. Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">BEK SHACKELFORD-NWANGANGA and ROSE CONLON</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-25/kansas-lawmakers-want-to-loosen-vaccine-requirements-amid-a-measles-outbreak-in-the-state">Kansas News Service</a><h2>At least 23 Kansans have tested positive for measles. Health officials urge full vaccination against the disease.</h2>An outbreak of measles in southwest Kansas continues to grow.&nbsp;<a href="https://kshealthdata.kdhe.ks.gov/t/KDHE/views/InfectiousDiseaseCaseDashboard/DiseaseCharts?%3Aembed=y&amp;%3AisGuestRedirectFromVizportal=y" target="_blank">State health data shows</a>&nbsp;23 people in six counties have tested positive for measles since the start of this year. Data released on Wednesday showed the number of cases and counties affected by the spread have doubled.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1483" target="_blank">reported a measles case in Stevens County March 13</a>, stating it was the first measles case in Kansas since 2018. But the state’s measles dashboard also shows two cases, one in January and one in February. A state health department spokesperson said those cases were “retrospectively identified” and part of the current outbreak. The eight other cases were recorded this month.Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said during a health conference in Wichita that state officials are closely monitoring the outbreak and are ensuring infected people are isolated. She also urged Kansans to get vaccinated.“They are safe and effective,” Kelly said. “I have two kids. They were both vaccinated. They are alive and well.”<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html" target="_blank">The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classify a measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;as three or more cases linked to each other. This makes Kansas one of the most recent states with a measles outbreak.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-2025" target="_blank">Texas has the largest outbreak</a>, with more than 300 cases of the measles. Health experts say the disease can lead to serious complications, hospitalization or death.The CDC has confirmed one death amid the outbreak in Texas. In New Mexico, health officials are investigating the cause of death for a person who tested positive for measles.The ongoing spread of the illness in Kansas comes as state lawmakers in Topeka are considering a bill that includes loosening vaccine requirements in child care regulations.The bill is aimed at reducing specific fees and training requirements for early child care facilities. But a provision expands religious exemptions for vaccines that are required for child care programs. The Kansas House recently approved the bill with bipartisan support.Kansas vaccine advocates argue the requirement changes could reduce vaccine rates amid a growing public health issue.“The more unvaccinated children you have in a setting, the more likely it is that measles or whatever will go through the population,” said Rabbi Moti Rieber, executive director for Kansas Interfaith Action.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743085804155.png" alt="A photo of measles, mumps and rubella vaccines.&nbsp;Photo by Celia Llopis Jepsen/Kansas News Service.png" />
 <figcaption>A photo of measles, mumps and rubella vaccines.&nbsp;Photo by Celia Llopis Jepsen/Kansas News Service.png</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>What is measles?&nbsp;</h2>Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious infection caused by a virus. It spreads through the air.Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection and prevention at the University of Kansas Health System, said the illness can linger in the air for up to two hours. He said he expects to see the number of cases in Kansas rise because of how easy measles spreads.“With the decrease in overall vaccine rates, I think we have to expect there to be more cases,” he said, “Just because the less people vaccinated means more people that are susceptible to the disease.”Hawkinson said measles can potentially cause severe health problems, like pneumonia. In rare cases, it can lead to brain damage and deafness. He said one in five people who contract measles are hospitalized and it can be deadly.“This can be a very devastating disease,” Hawinkson said. “It is unfortunate because we know we have the best proactive safety measure, and that is the vaccine.”State health officials say nine of the 10 Kansans who tested positive for measles were unvaccinated, and one was under vaccinated.<h2>Symptoms</h2>Hawkinson said measles symptoms typically start like a common cold. An infected person may have a fever, sore throat, runny nose and mild cough. About two to three days later, the person may develop white&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/measles/symptoms-causes/syc-20374857" target="_blank">spots in their mouth, known as Koplik spots</a>. About three to five days later, the person will develop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/photos.html" target="_blank">a red, splotchy rash</a>, which Hawksinson said usually starts on a person’s head and face and then spreads downward.<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/measles-keeping-family-safe.html" target="_blank">Experts say if you suspect you or your child has measles</a>, it’s best for them to stay home away from other people. Hawkinson said it’s also important to call ahead before bringing someone with a possible infection to the doctor, emergency room or urgent care.“It is really best to call ahead so that they can take those preparations into account, so that they can protect other people in those areas,” he said.The state health department website has more information about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1501/Measles-Rubeola#:~:text=Providers%20%26%20LHD%20Resources%20Table%20Section,not%20wait%20for%20test%20results." target="_blank">measles and what to watch for.</a><h2>Measles prevention</h2>Hawkinson encourages full vaccination against measles as the best way to avoid contracting the illness.“We have a vaccine that has been used for five to six decades,” Hawkinson said. “It has a great history of safety. It has a great history of effectiveness at preventing disease and especially the complications of disease.”<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fvpd%2Fmmr%2Fpublic%2Findex.html" target="_blank">There are two types of vaccines for measles</a>: MMR and MMRV. Children need two doses of either vaccine to be fully protected against measles. The first dose should be administered when a child is between 12 and 15 months old and the second should be when a child is between four and six years old. However, the MMVR second dose can be administered as early as 3 months after the first dose.Hawkinson said now is a good time to check you and your family’s vaccination status. He said unvaccinated children and adults or people who didn’t receive both doses of the vaccine should consider getting them now.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743086270322.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Vaccine rates and recent legislation</h2>For the public to be safe from the measles, about 95% of the community needs to be vaccinated against the disease,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html#:~:text=Why%20is%20there%20more%20measles,returning%20to%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">the CDC says</a>. About 90% of Kansans are vaccinated for measles.In recent years, state lawmakers have challenged vaccine requirements in the state.The Kansas House recently approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2294/?link_id=1&amp;can_id=ddf8202ea341214def057893c988d994&amp;source=email-action-alert-tell-your-house-member-to-protect-the-kansas-supreme-court&amp;email_referrer=email_2662630&amp;email_subject=action-alert-on-childhood-immunizations&amp;&amp;" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing or eliminating fees and training requirements for child care facilities. That bill includes a provision that adds moral and ethical opposition to the definition of religious exemptions for vaccines that children are required to get before attending child care programs.Rieber said the change is reckless. He said most major religions approve of vaccines.“In anti-vax sentiment, sometimes it’s called 'religious' but actually, it is more about people’s fears,” Rieber said. “There’s not really a religious basis for it.”Rieber said changing the definition of religious exemption for vaccine requirements at childcare facilities could also open the door to changes for K-12 public schools, which require several other vaccines for children.Rieber said he supports expanding access to affordable child care in Kansas, but the amendment could harm vaccinated and unvaccinated kids.“The biggest issue is the potential for this to be a precedent that would then take away the ability of the school or the facility to actually protect their children by not allowing unvaccinated children to be in the setting,” he said.Lawmakers on the House floor did not discuss the details of the bill or the reasons to include the vaccine exemption changes before voting to approve it. The bill is now in the Senate.

Kansas lawmakers want to loosen vaccine requirements amid measles outbreak in the state

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

LARNED—Kansas Department of Health and Environment officials heard Larned residents' concerns about Innovative Livestock's permit submission for a new cattle facility on Tuesday.

The proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ilsbeef.com/">Innovative Livestock Services</a>&nbsp;feedlot is designed to house 88,000 beef cattle and will feature open lot pens, storage areas, sediment basins and waste storage ponds.

The facility would be about 10 miles south of Larned.

The KDHE hosted an informational session and public hearing on Tuesday, led by Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione.

"Our review process involves making sure that these facilities meet the laws and regulations that have been defined by the Legislature," Guccione said.

Longtime Larned residents Merrill Cauble and Felix Revello attended the public hearing to oppose the proposed feed yard and advocate for the region.

They outlined concerns regarding water contamination, economic effects, the need for further testing and air pollution.

"To go out and have a nice evening with the family or friends out on your back porch for a barbecue... it ruins the day and evening. You have to take everything inside because it's intolerable outside," Cauble said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e5984cf6-ebee-49aa-98c3-0609ce2c4f12">SEE RELATED STORY: Innovative Livestock Services submits permit for cattle facility near Larned</a>

KDHE has drafted a proposed Kansas Water Pollution Control Permit for the facility, which is available on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/436/Livestock-Waste-Management">website</a>.

Although the facility is about 10 miles from Larned, many residents say they will still be affected, especially since other feed yards are already in operation nearby.

One attendee who lives near a feedlot north of Larned said adding another south of town would create more water issues that could affect his children.

"I have a 9-year-old. I want him to be healthy and be able to thrive in his life. If he's going to have all these water issues now, that's going to cause issues for him later," he said.

The attendee went on to share that he received a heart transplant in December and cannot afford to install a new water system.

"I cannot currently shower in my own home because of the water quality, and that's before this new feedlot," he said. "I go into town four to five times a week just to take a shower if people let me."

He adds that he cannot drink his water or wash dishes with it, forcing him to buy cases and gallons to meet basic needs. This expense is one he struggles to afford while out of work.

While many residents voiced opposition and skepticism about KDHE’s ability to protect their community, others showed confidence in the proposed facility and its potential benefits.

One attendee, a farmer who lives about eight miles from the proposed site, said past issues involving&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services were addressed when they arose.

"When they had dust problems, they fixed it. When they needed water, they pipe water from clear across the river to water the pens down. They are good neighbors," he said.

The attendee added Larned is an agricultural community struggling due to a lack of business, and voiced support for the new feedyard, citing the jobs it would create.

"We've got to do this if we want our community to survive and grow," he said.

A farmer from Rozel who owns land near an existing&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services facility also endorsed the project, saying he’s confident the new feed yard will implement all necessary safeguards.

"I'm familiar with the dust and smell," he said.&nbsp;"[Innovative Livestock Services] is a tremendous steward of the ground. From what I see, they do everything right. They take care of the ground and the feed yards."

A representative of the Kansas Livestock Association also appeared to show support.

Another opponent lives about a mile from the site, making him one of the closest residents to the proposed facility who attended the hearing.

A father of three, his concern is groundwater contamination. His home is not connected to a rural water district, and he says nitrate levels are allegedly already high near other feedlots.

"I just wish there was a guarantee that there would be a lot less at this new lot, but living so close, I just don't see it," he said.

Cauble and Revello took turns speaking at the hearing. They raised other concerns about the massive amount of manure the facility would produce, weak KDHE regulations, and questionable groundwater depth data and separation distances.

They urged that no permit be approved until existing environmental issues are resolved.

"Rural Kansas' rights to healthy lives and enjoyment of their homes are being sacrificed to produce enormous wealth for distant owners," Revello said.

Guccione did not address public concerns directly during the hearing. All comments were recorded for a formal written response to be released later.

During the informational session, residents were allowed to ask questions about the permit application. Guccione said KDHE’s review is limited to determining whether the application complies with existing state laws and regulations.

The current draft permit does not include groundwater monitoring. However, Guccione said KDHE, Innovative Livestock Service and the Kansas Livestock Association are discussing including it in the final permit for regular testing.

He said odor and dust fall outside the scope of the permit and are not factored into the permitting process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743094012197.jpeg" alt="Residents attending the KDHE public hearing for an Innovative Livestock permit at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Residents attending the KDHE public hearing for an Innovative Livestock permit at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostLARNED—Kansas Department of Health and Environment officials heard Larned residents' concerns about Innovative Livestock's permit submission for a new cattle facility on Tuesday.The proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ilsbeef.com/">Innovative Livestock Services</a>&nbsp;feedlot is designed to house 88,000 beef cattle and will feature open lot pens, storage areas, sediment basins and waste storage ponds.The facility would be about 10 miles south of Larned.The KDHE hosted an informational session and public hearing on Tuesday, led by Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione."Our review process involves making sure that these facilities meet the laws and regulations that have been defined by the Legislature," Guccione said.Longtime Larned residents Merrill Cauble and Felix Revello attended the public hearing to oppose the proposed feed yard and advocate for the region.They outlined concerns regarding water contamination, economic effects, the need for further testing and air pollution."To go out and have a nice evening with the family or friends out on your back porch for a barbecue... it ruins the day and evening. You have to take everything inside because it's intolerable outside," Cauble said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e5984cf6-ebee-49aa-98c3-0609ce2c4f12">SEE RELATED STORY: Innovative Livestock Services submits permit for cattle facility near Larned</a>KDHE has drafted a proposed Kansas Water Pollution Control Permit for the facility, which is available on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/436/Livestock-Waste-Management">website</a>.Although the facility is about 10 miles from Larned, many residents say they will still be affected, especially since other feed yards are already in operation nearby.One attendee who lives near a feedlot north of Larned said adding another south of town would create more water issues that could affect his children."I have a 9-year-old. I want him to be healthy and be able to thrive in his life. If he's going to have all these water issues now, that's going to cause issues for him later," he said.The attendee went on to share that he received a heart transplant in December and cannot afford to install a new water system."I cannot currently shower in my own home because of the water quality, and that's before this new feedlot," he said. "I go into town four to five times a week just to take a shower if people let me."He adds that he cannot drink his water or wash dishes with it, forcing him to buy cases and gallons to meet basic needs. This expense is one he struggles to afford while out of work.While many residents voiced opposition and skepticism about KDHE’s ability to protect their community, others showed confidence in the proposed facility and its potential benefits.One attendee, a farmer who lives about eight miles from the proposed site, said past issues involving&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services were addressed when they arose."When they had dust problems, they fixed it. When they needed water, they pipe water from clear across the river to water the pens down. They are good neighbors," he said.The attendee added Larned is an agricultural community struggling due to a lack of business, and voiced support for the new feedyard, citing the jobs it would create."We've got to do this if we want our community to survive and grow," he said.A farmer from Rozel who owns land near an existing&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services facility also endorsed the project, saying he’s confident the new feed yard will implement all necessary safeguards."I'm familiar with the dust and smell," he said.&nbsp;"[Innovative Livestock Services] is a tremendous steward of the ground. From what I see, they do everything right. They take care of the ground and the feed yards."A representative of the Kansas Livestock Association also appeared to show support.Another opponent lives about a mile from the site, making him one of the closest residents to the proposed facility who attended the hearing.A father of three, his concern is groundwater contamination. His home is not connected to a rural water district, and he says nitrate levels are allegedly already high near other feedlots."I just wish there was a guarantee that there would be a lot less at this new lot, but living so close, I just don't see it," he said.Cauble and Revello took turns speaking at the hearing. They raised other concerns about the massive amount of manure the facility would produce, weak KDHE regulations, and questionable groundwater depth data and separation distances.They urged that no permit be approved until existing environmental issues are resolved."Rural Kansas' rights to healthy lives and enjoyment of their homes are being sacrificed to produce enormous wealth for distant owners," Revello said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743094176137.jpeg" alt="KDHE Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione speaking to residents at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione speaking to residents at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Guccione did not address public concerns directly during the hearing. All comments were recorded for a formal written response to be released later.During the informational session, residents were allowed to ask questions about the permit application. Guccione said KDHE’s review is limited to determining whether the application complies with existing state laws and regulations.The current draft permit does not include groundwater monitoring. However, Guccione said KDHE, Innovative Livestock Service and the Kansas Livestock Association are discussing including it in the final permit for regular testing.He said odor and dust fall outside the scope of the permit and are not factored into the permitting process.

Larned residents unhappy with Innovative Livestock Services feedlot permit

NORTON — A project to resurface a 12-mile portion of I-70 in Thomas County is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 31.

The Kansas Department of Transportation project will involve a mill and overlay on both east and westbound lanes of I-70 starting near Exit 62 at Mingo and ending at the Logan County line. In addition to the mainline pavement, crews will also resurface the shoulders, ramps and crossovers located within the project limits.

Traffic through the work zone will be reduced to one lane with a decreased speed limit. Motorists should plan for minor travel delays and are reminded to stay alert and use caution in the construction area.

KDOT expects project work to be complete by the end of June, conditions permitting.

Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor with a total contract cost of approximately $9 million. For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693945953540.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTNORTON — A project to resurface a 12-mile portion of I-70 in Thomas County is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 31.The Kansas Department of Transportation project will involve a mill and overlay on both east and westbound lanes of I-70 starting near Exit 62 at Mingo and ending at the Logan County line. In addition to the mainline pavement, crews will also resurface the shoulders, ramps and crossovers located within the project limits.Traffic through the work zone will be reduced to one lane with a decreased speed limit. Motorists should plan for minor travel delays and are reminded to stay alert and use caution in the construction area.KDOT expects project work to be complete by the end of June, conditions permitting.Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor with a total contract cost of approximately $9 million. For more information, please contact KDOT Area Construction Manager Todd Anderson at 785-953-6011 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

Resurfacing project to begin on I-70 in Thomas County

FHSU recognized its first Global Citizen Leaders at a presentation in March. The Global Citizen Leader program provides students with an opportunity to earn a transcript note documenting their leadership activities on a global scale.

Noah Erichsen, environmental science and history senior from Ellsworth, and Stephany Rother, financial planning senior from Weskan, were honored for completing the program.

“Thank you so much for being our first couple of students in this program,” said Jeni McRay, assistant provost of internationalization and strategic initiatives, speaking at the presentation. “We are very serious about our mission to develop engaged global citizen leaders and working to bring all the elements together.

“Thinking about sustainability and generally being good citizens and understanding a bit more about the world is hopefully what we are trying to do with this program.”

Noah said he had been surprised to find opportunities to engage globally when he first came to FHSU.

“It’s just amazing,” he said. “Something I never thought Fort Hays could offer. But they offer it so well and in an affordable way.”

FHSU’s Global Citizen Leader program requires students to complete courses and cross-cultural experiences, as well as a presentation synthesizing and reflecting on their learnings and experiences.

Attaining a well-rounded academic background through his coursework was central to Noah’s global leaders experience.

“I learned there are boundaries, but boundaries should not contain people,” he said. “People flow, ideas flow, and that’s where you get this wide perspective.”

Noah studied at the University of Barcelona at the end of his sophomore year at FHSU. During his study abroad experience, his language skills progressed from “not so great” to “passable.”

“When I opened my mouth, everyone knew exactly where I was from,” he said with a laugh. &nbsp;

Using primary sources for his history papers and being able to hold historical documents in his hands were highlights of Noah’s experiences.

“It was so amazing to see the streets where Romans took their chariots as they were building their empire,” he said.

For Stephany, the global citizen leaders program met her three main expectations: coursework, community engagement and studying abroad.

“Being able to go abroad and see different things has helped me connect with people in a way that I wasn’t expecting,” she said. “I met so many people with so many perspectives and experiences. To me, being a citizen is building community, being able to connect people and different ideas.”

Stephany, whose study abroad experience was primarily in the U.K., also traveled to Greece, where she was able to apply her global economics coursework to real-life situations. She learned that taxes, economic systems, and buying and selling in international systems differed greatly from the U.S.

In addition to increasing her cultural awareness, Stephany found that educators in the U.K. put a greater degree of focus on academic writing. She said she is grateful that the skills she learned in the U.K. have significantly impacted her coursework in the U.S.

Hearing Noah and Stephany’s presentations was inspiring for Dr. Fatin Yaro, global affairs academic partnerships coordinator.

“Their journeys clearly indicate that the program is fulfilling its goals and aligning well with the broader university’s mission,” he said. “Their passion, growth, and readiness to drive meaningful change both in their communities and on a global scale are proof of the program’s impact.”

“We look forward to seeing the next cohort of Global Citizen Leaders continue these transformational endeavors.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742998957855.jpeg" alt="(Left to right) Stephany Rother Noah Erichsen were recognized by Fort Hays State University as its first Global Citizen Leaders. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>(Left to right) Stephany Rother Noah Erichsen were recognized by Fort Hays State University as its first Global Citizen Leaders. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFHSU recognized its first Global Citizen Leaders at a presentation in March. The Global Citizen Leader program provides students with an opportunity to earn a transcript note documenting their leadership activities on a global scale.Noah Erichsen, environmental science and history senior from Ellsworth, and Stephany Rother, financial planning senior from Weskan, were honored for completing the program.“Thank you so much for being our first couple of students in this program,” said Jeni McRay, assistant provost of internationalization and strategic initiatives, speaking at the presentation. “We are very serious about our mission to develop engaged global citizen leaders and working to bring all the elements together.“Thinking about sustainability and generally being good citizens and understanding a bit more about the world is hopefully what we are trying to do with this program.”Noah said he had been surprised to find opportunities to engage globally when he first came to FHSU.“It’s just amazing,” he said. “Something I never thought Fort Hays could offer. But they offer it so well and in an affordable way.”FHSU’s Global Citizen Leader program requires students to complete courses and cross-cultural experiences, as well as a presentation synthesizing and reflecting on their learnings and experiences.Attaining a well-rounded academic background through his coursework was central to Noah’s global leaders experience.“I learned there are boundaries, but boundaries should not contain people,” he said. “People flow, ideas flow, and that’s where you get this wide perspective.”Noah studied at the University of Barcelona at the end of his sophomore year at FHSU. During his study abroad experience, his language skills progressed from “not so great” to “passable.”“When I opened my mouth, everyone knew exactly where I was from,” he said with a laugh. &nbsp;Using primary sources for his history papers and being able to hold historical documents in his hands were highlights of Noah’s experiences.“It was so amazing to see the streets where Romans took their chariots as they were building their empire,” he said.For Stephany, the global citizen leaders program met her three main expectations: coursework, community engagement and studying abroad.“Being able to go abroad and see different things has helped me connect with people in a way that I wasn’t expecting,” she said. “I met so many people with so many perspectives and experiences. To me, being a citizen is building community, being able to connect people and different ideas.”Stephany, whose study abroad experience was primarily in the U.K., also traveled to Greece, where she was able to apply her global economics coursework to real-life situations. She learned that taxes, economic systems, and buying and selling in international systems differed greatly from the U.S.In addition to increasing her cultural awareness, Stephany found that educators in the U.K. put a greater degree of focus on academic writing. She said she is grateful that the skills she learned in the U.K. have significantly impacted her coursework in the U.S.Hearing Noah and Stephany’s presentations was inspiring for Dr. Fatin Yaro, global affairs academic partnerships coordinator.“Their journeys clearly indicate that the program is fulfilling its goals and aligning well with the broader university’s mission,” he said. “Their passion, growth, and readiness to drive meaningful change both in their communities and on a global scale are proof of the program’s impact.”“We look forward to seeing the next cohort of Global Citizen Leaders continue these transformational endeavors.”

FHSU celebrates Global Citizen Leader from Weskan

By STACEY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Last year’s growing season brought to Kansas a new disease to corn,&nbsp;corn stunt spiroplasma and its associated vector the corn leafhopper insect. 

It was confirmed in 26 counties in 2024. Active field scouting last year confirmed active leaf hoppers in many additional counties. Although the majority of the positive reports are from field corn, also confirmed corn stunt spiroplasma in sweet corn as well. 

High levels of disease were found in late-planted and double-cropped corn, leading to potential yield reduction. So be aware that late-planted and double-cropped corn is more at risk of contracting corn stunt disease. Early planting of corn is advised as leafhopper infestations, and corn stunt disease will increase as the season progresses. Removal of volunteer corn plants following the growing season is also advised to reduce overwintering sites for adult corn leafhoppers.

Symptoms of the disease may include shortened internodes, which can result in a stunted stature of the corn plant as well as leaves with red discoloration. Because other factors in the environment can cause red or purple discoloration in corn, laboratory testing is important to diagnose corn stunt disease and distinguish it from other stressors. Corn stunt disease can result in yield loss due to severe plant stunting, smaller ear size and loose/lost kernels.

In the past, corn stunt disease has been limited in distribution to southern Texas, Florida, and California in the United States. 

Corn stunt is caused by a wall-less bacterial pathogen called corn stunt spiroplasma. The corn leafhopper can also transmit additional pathogens, either singly or in combination with the corn stunt spiroplasma. 

To date, only corn stunt spiroplasma has been detected in Kansas. Additional research is needed to determine the presence of other pathogens vectored by corn leafhopper in Kansas.

This disease is spread only by the corn leafhopper. Corn leafhopper acquires pathogens within minutes of feeding on infected corn plants but it can take up to 30 days for the leafhopper to be able to infect healthy corn plants during feeding events.

Although the infestation by the corn leafhoppers usually begins at the early crop stages, and the transmission of the pathogens occurs in the vegetative growth stages, symptoms of corn stunt disease only appear later in the season, generally 30 days after leafhopper feeding, when corn has already reached the reproductive stages.

Corn stunt disease incidence will not be reduced by insecticide control. If you see disease symptoms in the field, the plants have already been infected. Infected plants will not show symptoms for one month. If the corn is mature enough, then infection may not impact corn kernels. 

According to Corteva Agriscience, insecticidal seed treatments consisting of imidacloprid and clothianidin can provide control of corn leafhoppers up to the V3 growth stage. After that, plants are susceptible to acquiring the corn stunt pathogens through leafhopper feeding.

The corn leafhopper is relatively simple to identify under magnification. These leafhoppers are light tan to yellowish-white in color and approximately 1/8” long. Two distinct dark spots between the antennae and eyes are very characteristic of this species. Nymphs lack wings and can vary in color. Like most leafhoppers, all stages move quickly when disturbed and hide in shaded areas of corn plants. 

All stages can be sampled using a sweep net; a video showing how to sample for corn leafhoppers in mature corn canopies can be found here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgLuWWSwHWU">https://youtu.be/QgLuWWSwHWU</a>.

If you ever have any questions or during the growing season need me to look at any of your corn fields, please give me a call at 785-628-9430.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell&nbsp;is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell&nbsp;is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACEY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictLast year’s growing season brought to Kansas a new disease to corn,&nbsp;corn stunt spiroplasma and its associated vector the corn leafhopper insect. It was confirmed in 26 counties in 2024. Active field scouting last year confirmed active leaf hoppers in many additional counties. Although the majority of the positive reports are from field corn, also confirmed corn stunt spiroplasma in sweet corn as well. High levels of disease were found in late-planted and double-cropped corn, leading to potential yield reduction. So be aware that late-planted and double-cropped corn is more at risk of contracting corn stunt disease. Early planting of corn is advised as leafhopper infestations, and corn stunt disease will increase as the season progresses. Removal of volunteer corn plants following the growing season is also advised to reduce overwintering sites for adult corn leafhoppers.Symptoms of the disease may include shortened internodes, which can result in a stunted stature of the corn plant as well as leaves with red discoloration. Because other factors in the environment can cause red or purple discoloration in corn, laboratory testing is important to diagnose corn stunt disease and distinguish it from other stressors. Corn stunt disease can result in yield loss due to severe plant stunting, smaller ear size and loose/lost kernels.In the past, corn stunt disease has been limited in distribution to southern Texas, Florida, and California in the United States. Corn stunt is caused by a wall-less bacterial pathogen called corn stunt spiroplasma. The corn leafhopper can also transmit additional pathogens, either singly or in combination with the corn stunt spiroplasma. To date, only corn stunt spiroplasma has been detected in Kansas. Additional research is needed to determine the presence of other pathogens vectored by corn leafhopper in Kansas.This disease is spread only by the corn leafhopper. Corn leafhopper acquires pathogens within minutes of feeding on infected corn plants but it can take up to 30 days for the leafhopper to be able to infect healthy corn plants during feeding events.Although the infestation by the corn leafhoppers usually begins at the early crop stages, and the transmission of the pathogens occurs in the vegetative growth stages, symptoms of corn stunt disease only appear later in the season, generally 30 days after leafhopper feeding, when corn has already reached the reproductive stages.Chemical ControlCorn stunt disease incidence will not be reduced by insecticide control. If you see disease symptoms in the field, the plants have already been infected. Infected plants will not show symptoms for one month. If the corn is mature enough, then infection may not impact corn kernels. According to Corteva Agriscience, insecticidal seed treatments consisting of imidacloprid and clothianidin can provide control of corn leafhoppers up to the V3 growth stage. After that, plants are susceptible to acquiring the corn stunt pathogens through leafhopper feeding.The corn leafhopper is relatively simple to identify under magnification. These leafhoppers are light tan to yellowish-white in color and approximately 1/8” long. Two distinct dark spots between the antennae and eyes are very characteristic of this species. Nymphs lack wings and can vary in color. Like most leafhoppers, all stages move quickly when disturbed and hide in shaded areas of corn plants. All stages can be sampled using a sweep net; a video showing how to sample for corn leafhoppers in mature corn canopies can be found here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgLuWWSwHWU">https://youtu.be/QgLuWWSwHWU</a>.If you ever have any questions or during the growing season need me to look at any of your corn fields, please give me a call at 785-628-9430.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Corn Stunt disease – A new threat to Kansas corn

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743170889288.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

The unemployment rate for Ellis County went up almost a point from 2.3% in January to 3.2% in February.&nbsp;

Russell's unemployment rate, which was 5.3% in January, was back down to 3.7% in February.

All northwest Kansas counties were at or below 4% unemployment in February, which was on par or below statewide numbers.

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in February statewide. 

This is unchanged from 3.8% in January and an increase from 3.2% in February 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas decreased to 67.2% in February.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,100 from January. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 500 over the month, while government increased by 1,600. The largest job gains in the private sector were in construction (+700 jobs) and professional and business services (+500 jobs). The largest decrease was in trade, transportation and utilities (-800 jobs).

Since February 2024, Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 3,800. This change is due to a decrease of 100 private sector jobs and an increase of 3,900 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743190303963.png" alt="Northwest Kansas unemployment numbers for February." />
 <figcaption>Northwest Kansas unemployment numbers for February.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Labor&nbsp;The unemployment rate for Ellis County went up almost a point from 2.3% in January to 3.2% in February.&nbsp;Russell's unemployment rate, which was 5.3% in January, was back down to 3.7% in February.All northwest Kansas counties were at or below 4% unemployment in February, which was on par or below statewide numbers.Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in February statewide. This is unchanged from 3.8% in January and an increase from 3.2% in February 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas decreased to 67.2% in February.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,100 from January. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 500 over the month, while government increased by 1,600. The largest job gains in the private sector were in construction (+700 jobs) and professional and business services (+500 jobs). The largest decrease was in trade, transportation and utilities (-800 jobs).Since February 2024, Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 3,800. This change is due to a decrease of 100 private sector jobs and an increase of 3,900 government jobs.Technical Note: This release includes nonfarm jobs and labor force estimates for February 2025, which are produced using data from two monthly surveys. Data for nonfarm job estimates is collected through a survey of employers, while the main input for labor force estimates is a survey of households. Data collected for this report references the week including Feb. 12.

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