<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about their upcoming Ag Appreciation event with Astra Bank market president Bryan Vonfeldt.

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber prepares for Ag Appreciation event" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=p5tmb-10d3c02-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about their upcoming Ag Appreciation event with Astra Bank market president Bryan Vonfeldt.

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber prepares for Ag Appreciation event

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting strong winds Tuesday afternoon as a cold front pushes into northwest Kansas.

Gust of up to 40 mph are expected through the afternoon and evening, diminishing after midnight.

With low humidity levels associated with the front, the NWS is warning of elevated risk of fires.

The skies are expected to be clear throughout the remainder of the week, with high temperatures in the mid- to upper 80s through Thursday. The expected high on Friday is 96.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631024219430.png" alt="Dodge City NWS" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City NWS</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City is predicting strong winds Tuesday afternoon as a cold front pushes into northwest Kansas.Gust of up to 40 mph are expected through the afternoon and evening, diminishing after midnight.With low humidity levels associated with the front, the NWS is warning of elevated risk of fires.The skies are expected to be clear throughout the remainder of the week, with high temperatures in the mid- to upper 80s through Thursday. The expected high on Friday is 96.

NWS: Cold front will bring strong winds into NW Kan. on Tuesday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Little acts can - and do - make big changes for thousands of lives impacted every year by the United Way of Ellis County.

That is the theme for the 2021 campaign fundraiser which officially kicked off Aug. 27 during a Hays Chamber lunch sponsored by Eagle Radio.&nbsp;

"No act of kindness is too small to make a difference," said Erica Berges, United Way executive director. "It's a ripple effect," she said, gesturing to campaign artwork with concentric circles.&nbsp;

According to information on the United Way website, 21,349 people were assisted last year in Ellis County.&nbsp;

"When we all come together to help the community, big things can happen."

Berges also encouraged the audience to also think about little changes they could make in their personal lives and how - in that ripple effect - it could help other people.

 "It's not just about [financial] donations," she said.

The 16 United Way partner agencies and volunteers were recognized along with United Way board members, staff, and campaign leaders.&nbsp;

Two community members, alongside their mentors, shared how their lives have improved with help from programs supported by the United Way.&nbsp;

Through translator Meleny Jacome-Banuelos, the United Way administrative assistant, a Hispanic single mother talked about the help she's received for her young son from the Hays Area Children's Center.&nbsp;

Another resident, Jacob, talked proudly about his job and responsibilities at the Hays Recreation Center, thanks to the Employment Connections program through Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas.

Former Ellis County Commissioner Guy Windholz is a board member of the Hays Senior Center who talked about meals provided to older Ellis County residents and plans for a proposed retiree housing community near Hays Med.&nbsp;

There are several ways to donate to the United Way including cash or check, online at the organization's website <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">liveunited.us</a>, through <a href="https://liveunited.harnessapp.com/wv2/donate?selected-method=roundup">round-up giving</a> on the website, or through an employer's payroll deduction program.

Donors can also use AmazonSmile when shopping online through Amazon. The company will donate a portion of your purchase amount to the local United Way.

New this year is the popular mobile phone payment service Venmo.

Planned fundraisers for the campaign include the annual golf tourney to be held Oct. 3, Power of the Purse on Oct. 7, sponsored by the Wonder Women League, Dineout Days at local restaurants, and Pumpkin Packers who will be asking for spare change as they walk in Ellis County homecoming parades.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: Eagle Radio is the owner of Hays Post.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630974283863.jpeg" alt="Erica Berges, United Way of Ellis County executive director, at the 2021 campaign kickoff Aug. 27 in the Rose Garden Banquet Hall, Hays." />
 <figcaption>Erica Berges, United Way of Ellis County executive director, at the 2021 campaign kickoff Aug. 27 in the Rose Garden Banquet Hall, Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostLittle acts can - and do - make big changes for thousands of lives impacted every year by the United Way of Ellis County.That is the theme for the 2021 campaign fundraiser which officially kicked off Aug. 27 during a Hays Chamber lunch sponsored by Eagle Radio.&nbsp;"No act of kindness is too small to make a difference," said Erica Berges, United Way executive director. "It's a ripple effect," she said, gesturing to campaign artwork with concentric circles.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0ACwOgTLanE"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to information on the United Way website, 21,349 people were assisted last year in Ellis County.&nbsp;"When we all come together to help the community, big things can happen."Berges also encouraged the audience to also think about little changes they could make in their personal lives and how - in that ripple effect - it could help other people. "It's not just about [financial] donations," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630973553649.jpeg" alt="There are 16 United Way of Ellis County partner agencies which benefit from the campaign disbursements as determined by the volunteer CARE Council.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>There are 16 United Way of Ellis County partner agencies which benefit from the campaign disbursements as determined by the volunteer CARE Council.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630974649702.jpeg" alt="Jennifer Harmon, Eagle Radio, (standing at left) and other United Way board members are recognized at the campaign kickoff lunch.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Harmon, Eagle Radio, (standing at left) and other United Way board members are recognized at the campaign kickoff lunch.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The 16 United Way partner agencies and volunteers were recognized along with United Way board members, staff, and campaign leaders.&nbsp;Two community members, alongside their mentors, shared how their lives have improved with help from programs supported by the United Way.&nbsp;Through translator Meleny Jacome-Banuelos, the United Way administrative assistant, a Hispanic single mother talked about the help she's received for her young son from the Hays Area Children's Center.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630978146447.jpeg" alt="Hays Area Children's Center currently serves 72 children from birth to age three who have developmental disabilities or delays." />
 <figcaption>Hays Area Children's Center currently serves 72 children from birth to age three who have developmental disabilities or delays.</figcaption>
 </figure>Another resident, Jacob, talked proudly about his job and responsibilities at the Hays Recreation Center, thanks to the Employment Connections program through Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630978421817.jpeg" alt="Through DSNWK's Employment Connections, Jacob (at left) has cleaned equipment and laundry for nearly seven years at the Hays Recreation Center. His employee badge includes the title "HRC Director of First Impressions."&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Through DSNWK's Employment Connections, Jacob (at left) has cleaned equipment and laundry for nearly seven years at the Hays Recreation Center. His employee badge includes the title "HRC Director of First Impressions."&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Former Ellis County Commissioner Guy Windholz is a board member of the Hays Senior Center who talked about meals provided to older Ellis County residents and plans for a proposed retiree housing community near Hays Med.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630979283235.jpeg" alt="Guy Windholz is a board member of Hays Senior Center. In the past year, 26,753 hot nutritious meals were served to Ellis County senior residents.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Guy Windholz is a board member of Hays Senior Center. In the past year, 26,753 hot nutritious meals were served to Ellis County senior residents.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>There are several ways to donate to the United Way including cash or check, online at the organization's website <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">liveunited.us</a>, through <a href="https://liveunited.harnessapp.com/wv2/donate?selected-method=roundup">round-up giving</a> on the website, or through an employer's payroll deduction program.Donors can also use AmazonSmile when shopping online through Amazon. The company will donate a portion of your purchase amount to the local United Way.New this year is the popular mobile phone payment service Venmo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630980535341.jpeg" alt="There are numerous ways to make a financial contribution to United Way of Ellis County.&nbsp;New this year is the popular mobile phone payment service Venmo." />
 <figcaption>There are numerous ways to make a financial contribution to United Way of Ellis County.&nbsp;New this year is the popular mobile phone payment service Venmo.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630985049412.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; You can also click on the link at the top of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/">Hays Post website</a>&nbsp;to make a donation online.&nbsp; &nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; You can also click on the link at the top of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/">Hays Post website</a>&nbsp;to make a donation online.&nbsp; &nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Planned fundraisers for the campaign include the annual golf tourney to be held Oct. 3, Power of the Purse on Oct. 7, sponsored by the Wonder Women League, Dineout Days at local restaurants, and Pumpkin Packers who will be asking for spare change as they walk in Ellis County homecoming parades.&nbsp;Disclaimer: Eagle Radio is the owner of Hays Post.&nbsp;

🎥 'Little acts, big changes' is theme of 2021 United Way fundraising campaign 

By NOAH TABORDA and SHELTON BROWN <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/06/thousands-of-kansans-face-threat-of-eviction-as-pandemic-exposes-housing-crisis/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Sheena Mooney has spent the 
past year without a job or a safety net, living in her orange Nissan 
Xterra in a trailer park a few miles from Washburn.

Mooney lost her job at Frito-Lay in 
March 2020, a job she enjoyed, fell behind on her rent and was evicted 
that August. She applied for unemployment but did not qualify, and her 
eviction was subsequently approved between May 26, 2020, when the 
state’s eviction moratorium expired, and Aug. 17, 2020, when <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/17/gov-laura-kelly-reimposes-temporary-statewide-ban-on-foreclosures-evictions/">Gov. Laura Kelly’s new order went into effect</a>.

“I don’t like telling people my 
business, you know. This was something that needed to be heard,” Mooney 
said. “How did this happen? How was I able to fall through the cracks 
and get no help?”

Mooney is one of the thousands who 
have been evicted or are facing the threat of eviction during the 
pandemic in Kansas. She joined Kansas housing advocates on a new episode
 of the Kansas Reflector podcast to discuss the realities of renting 
amid COVID-19.

Estimates from the Kansas Housing 
Resources Corporation indicate more than 27,000 Kansas are currently 
behind on their rent, and estimates from Zillow show about 14,600 
renters are at risk of eviction.

Federal and state moratoriums have 
provided temporary relief for those who can prove they are unable to pay
 rent because of COVID-19 related circumstances, but the narrow scope 
has left many without protection. Even during the moratorium period, 
evictions proceeded in some areas.

Dave Patel, who comanages the Motel 6
 in Topeka with his wife, said he has seen an influx of people staying 
at his hotel because of lost housing.

Vince Munoz, an organizer for the 
tenant advocacy group Rent Zero Kansas, said without substantive change,
 many more will be removed from their homes with nowhere to turn.

“Even those of us who do have a 
little bit of stability, we’re all just kind of teetering on the edge 
and we really deserve to be in a place as people where we’re not just 
one emergency or social issue away from losing our housing,” Munoz said.

One option available to both renters 
and landlords looking for relief is the Kansas Emergency Rental 
Assistance program. The initiative led by the Kansas Housing Resources 
Corporation is intended to provide rent, utility and internet assistance
 to households experiencing hardship because of the pandemic through a 
joint tenant-landlord application process.

Whether it’s an unwillingness from 
landlords to collaborate or the slow processing pace of applications, 
Munoz said, the program is insufficient. Recent KHRC data shows 6,593 of
 14,607 applicants have been served so far.

<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/28/supreme-court-rejection-of-eviction-ban-increases-pressure-to-dole-out-rental-aid-money/">The U.S. Treasury last month</a>
 said just 11% of the $46.5 billion approved by Congress for emergency 
rental assistance had been allocated. Of the $5.1 billion that was 
spent, $1.7 billion was doled out during July.

KHRC executives said they are processing applications in seven to 10 days.

Ryan Vincent, KHRC’s executive 
director, said the organization is seeking feedback to inform a new 
housing initiative, this time for homeowners. The Kansas Homeowner 
Assistance Fund, established by the American Rescue Plan Act, will aim 
to prevent the displacement of homeowners experiencing financial 
hardship associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In less than a year, we’ve provided 
almost $50 million in emergency rental assistance to Kansas renters, 
landlords and service providers,” Vincent said. “We’re proud to have 
helped more than 15,000 Kansas households avoid eviction and remain 
stably housed during the pandemic, but we know our state’s housing needs
 don’t stop with tenants. Kansas homeowners: Help is on the way.”

Noah Taborda started his journalism career in public radio at KBIA in Columbia, Missouri, covering local government and producing an episode of the podcast Show Me The State while earning his bachelor’s degree in radio broadcasting at the University of Missouri School of Journalism.

Shelton Brown is an audio reporter and producer based in Kansas City, Missouri. Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Shelton has contributed to organizations like The Chattanooga Times Free Press, SIPA USA and Now To Love in Sydney, Australia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630957751202.png" alt=" Eviction moratoriums provided temporary relief for many Kansans, but some, like Sheena Mooney, found themselves without a home during the pandemic. (Shelton Brown for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Eviction moratoriums provided temporary relief for many Kansans, but some, like Sheena Mooney, found themselves without a home during the pandemic. (Shelton Brown for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA and SHELTON BROWN <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/06/thousands-of-kansans-face-threat-of-eviction-as-pandemic-exposes-housing-crisis/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Sheena Mooney has spent the 
past year without a job or a safety net, living in her orange Nissan 
Xterra in a trailer park a few miles from Washburn.Mooney lost her job at Frito-Lay in 
March 2020, a job she enjoyed, fell behind on her rent and was evicted 
that August. She applied for unemployment but did not qualify, and her 
eviction was subsequently approved between May 26, 2020, when the 
state’s eviction moratorium expired, and Aug. 17, 2020, when <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/17/gov-laura-kelly-reimposes-temporary-statewide-ban-on-foreclosures-evictions/">Gov. Laura Kelly’s new order went into effect</a>.“I don’t like telling people my 
business, you know. This was something that needed to be heard,” Mooney 
said. “How did this happen? How was I able to fall through the cracks 
and get no help?”Mooney is one of the thousands who 
have been evicted or are facing the threat of eviction during the 
pandemic in Kansas. She joined Kansas housing advocates on a new episode
 of the Kansas Reflector podcast to discuss the realities of renting 
amid COVID-19.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1119349120&color=%232b7fb4&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast" title="Reflector Podcast" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Reflector Podcast</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast/renters-advocates-on-kansas-housing-issues" title="Renters, advocates on Kansas housing issues" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Renters, advocates on Kansas housing issues</a></div></div>Estimates from the Kansas Housing 
Resources Corporation indicate more than 27,000 Kansas are currently 
behind on their rent, and estimates from Zillow show about 14,600 
renters are at risk of eviction.Federal and state moratoriums have 
provided temporary relief for those who can prove they are unable to pay
 rent because of COVID-19 related circumstances, but the narrow scope 
has left many without protection. Even during the moratorium period, 
evictions proceeded in some areas.Dave Patel, who comanages the Motel 6
 in Topeka with his wife, said he has seen an influx of people staying 
at his hotel because of lost housing.Vince Munoz, an organizer for the 
tenant advocacy group Rent Zero Kansas, said without substantive change,
 many more will be removed from their homes with nowhere to turn.“Even those of us who do have a 
little bit of stability, we’re all just kind of teetering on the edge 
and we really deserve to be in a place as people where we’re not just 
one emergency or social issue away from losing our housing,” Munoz said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630957863106.png" alt="Vince Munoz is housing justice organizer with Rent Zero Kansas. He says many renters are searching for stability in uncertain times. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Vince Munoz is housing justice organizer with Rent Zero Kansas. He says many renters are searching for stability in uncertain times. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>One option available to both renters 
and landlords looking for relief is the Kansas Emergency Rental 
Assistance program. The initiative led by the Kansas Housing Resources 
Corporation is intended to provide rent, utility and internet assistance
 to households experiencing hardship because of the pandemic through a 
joint tenant-landlord application process.Whether it’s an unwillingness from 
landlords to collaborate or the slow processing pace of applications, 
Munoz said, the program is insufficient. Recent KHRC data shows 6,593 of
 14,607 applicants have been served so far.<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/28/supreme-court-rejection-of-eviction-ban-increases-pressure-to-dole-out-rental-aid-money/">The U.S. Treasury last month</a>
 said just 11% of the $46.5 billion approved by Congress for emergency 
rental assistance had been allocated. Of the $5.1 billion that was 
spent, $1.7 billion was doled out during July.KHRC executives said they are processing applications in seven to 10 days.Ryan Vincent, KHRC’s executive 
director, said the organization is seeking feedback to inform a new 
housing initiative, this time for homeowners. The Kansas Homeowner 
Assistance Fund, established by the American Rescue Plan Act, will aim 
to prevent the displacement of homeowners experiencing financial 
hardship associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.“In less than a year, we’ve provided 
almost $50 million in emergency rental assistance to Kansas renters, 
landlords and service providers,” Vincent said. “We’re proud to have 
helped more than 15,000 Kansas households avoid eviction and remain 
stably housed during the pandemic, but we know our state’s housing needs
 don’t stop with tenants. Kansas homeowners: Help is on the way.”Noah Taborda started his journalism career in public radio at KBIA in Columbia, Missouri, covering local government and producing an episode of the podcast Show Me The State while earning his bachelor’s degree in radio broadcasting at the University of Missouri School of Journalism.Shelton Brown is an audio reporter and producer based in Kansas City, Missouri. Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Shelton has contributed to organizations like The Chattanooga Times Free Press, SIPA USA and Now To Love in Sydney, Australia.

Thousands of Kansans face eviction as pandemic exposes housing crisis

In
 conjunction with all Ellis County Schools and the Ellis County Health 
Department, TMP-M will follow these quarantine protocols:

<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Uj74GstfWlL3pGLIeNkZN5J5eHIDJkaZ/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Ellis County Health Department's Letter on Changing Covid-19 Protocols</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600893786937.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas More Prep-MarianIn
 conjunction with all Ellis County Schools and the Ellis County Health 
Department, TMP-M will follow these quarantine protocols:<ul>
 <li>If your child is sick, do not send them to school.</li><li>If
 someone in the household is awaiting test results for COVID-19, do not 
send any of your children to school while you wait for the results.</li><li>If
 your child is asymptomatic but you plan to have them tested for 
COVID-19 in the next two days, do not send them to school. Keeping them 
home from school prior to testing will remove subsequent quarantine from
 a positive test.</li><li>If you are notified that your child is a close
 contact with a positive case, they will be required to quarantine for 
ten days from the date of contact.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Individuals will not be allowed to test out of quarantine.</li><li>If&nbsp;both
 parties are wearing a mask for the duration of contact and social 
distancing of at least 3 ft is maintained, quarantine may not be 
enforced.</li><li>If&nbsp;your child is vaccinated and remains asymptomatic, they may stay in school and activities.</li><li>Face masks will remain optional.</li>
 </ul><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Uj74GstfWlL3pGLIeNkZN5J5eHIDJkaZ/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Ellis County Health Department's Letter on Changing Covid-19 Protocols</a>

Updated COVID precautions in effect at TMP-M

	The Daughters of IsabellaI, Isabella Circle #254, Hays, KS is working on the state convention.

The bi-annual convention of the Daughters of Isabella will be held Sept. 24 to 26 in western Kansas.&nbsp; This is a state convention and women from 24 Circles from across Kansas will be attending.&nbsp; In addition, state officers, State Chaplin Rev. Andrew Berkgamp, and International Regent Susanne Suchy will be in attendance. Committees have been appointed, and members are busy with various tasks. &nbsp;

The venue is Hilton Garden Inn in Hays. Hosting circles this year are:

Items of business will include Election of New State Officers; Standing &amp; Internal Rules changes will be voted on; and each Local Circles’ books will be audited.	

The service project for the convention is "Blessing Bags." These bags are gallon zipper bags filled with various sample-size hygiene products and a few snacks.&nbsp; Filled bags are donated to the four Catholic Charities Departments located in each of the dioceses.&nbsp; Businesses are asked to contact their local D of I circle if they have any items to donate for the project.

A memorial service for deceased members will be held on Friday followed by installation of local circle officers. &nbsp;

After the business meeting, evening events on Saturday include a banquet, dessert reception honoring the International Regent, and an oral auction. Sunday will include a Convention Mass, installation of newly elected state officers, brunch, and announcement of state award winners and the raffle prize winners. &nbsp;

State Regent, Belinda Kasper, welcomes all members to the convention and is looking forward to seeing all of our Kansas Daughters of Isabella Sisters. She is also very excited to have our State Convention in Western Kansas!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622490179372.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted	The Daughters of IsabellaI, Isabella Circle #254, Hays, KS is working on the state convention.The bi-annual convention of the Daughters of Isabella will be held Sept. 24 to 26 in western Kansas.&nbsp; This is a state convention and women from 24 Circles from across Kansas will be attending.&nbsp; In addition, state officers, State Chaplin Rev. Andrew Berkgamp, and International Regent Susanne Suchy will be in attendance. Committees have been appointed, and members are busy with various tasks. &nbsp;The venue is Hilton Garden Inn in Hays. Hosting circles this year are:<ul>
 <li>Isabella Circle #254 - Hays</li><li>St. Gilbert Circle #323 - Ellis</li><li>St. Paul Circle #400 – Angelus/Grinnell</li><li>St. Catherine Circle #686 – Oakley</li><li>Immaculate Heart of Mary Circle #747 – Colby</li>
 </ul>Items of business will include Election of New State Officers; Standing &amp; Internal Rules changes will be voted on; and each Local Circles’ books will be audited.	The service project for the convention is "Blessing Bags." These bags are gallon zipper bags filled with various sample-size hygiene products and a few snacks.&nbsp; Filled bags are donated to the four Catholic Charities Departments located in each of the dioceses.&nbsp; Businesses are asked to contact their local D of I circle if they have any items to donate for the project.A memorial service for deceased members will be held on Friday followed by installation of local circle officers. &nbsp;After the business meeting, evening events on Saturday include a banquet, dessert reception honoring the International Regent, and an oral auction. Sunday will include a Convention Mass, installation of newly elected state officers, brunch, and announcement of state award winners and the raffle prize winners. &nbsp;State Regent, Belinda Kasper, welcomes all members to the convention and is looking forward to seeing all of our Kansas Daughters of Isabella Sisters. She is also very excited to have our State Convention in Western Kansas!

Daughters of Isabella to hold state convention in Hays this month

NCK Tech recently announced the new faces and welcome additions to our North Central Kansas Technical College family.&nbsp; For this fall semester of 2021, NCK Tech would like to celebrate all new faculty and staff.&nbsp;

Kathleen Albert, General Education Instructor (Hays campus), is from Plainville, Kansas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s degree in Communication from Fort Hays State University. She also has her Doctorate in chiropractic care from Cleveland University in Kansas City, Kansas.

Mendi Anschutz, Director of Advancement in Foundation, is from Hays, Kansas. She has an Associate’s degree in Communications from Dodge City Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Public Relations from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Diana Baumann, Vice President of Finance &amp; Hays Operations, is from Hays, Kansas and has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Emma Carlin, Student Account Specialist in Finance &amp; Operations, is from Osborne, Kansas and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from Wichita State University.

Rachel Cox, Student Success Coordinator (Hays campus), is from Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;

Dalyn Diercks, Diesel Technology Instructor (Beloit campus), is from Agra, Kansas and holds an Associates of Applied Science from Barton Community College.

Patricia Drees, Nursing Instructor (Hays campus), Is from Hays, Kansas. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in nursing from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Brett Gray, Commercial Driver License Instructor (Hays campus), is from Lacrosse, Kansas.&nbsp;

Julie Gross, Nursing Instructor (Hays campus), is from Victoria, Kansas and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Sean Keady, General Education Instructor (Beloit campus), in from Glen Elder, Kansas, but grew up in Eastern North Carolina. He holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in math from East Carolina University.&nbsp;

Jan Klaus, Carpentry/ Cabinetmaking Instructor Aide (Hays campus), is from Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;

Harold Strait, Custodian/ Maintenance (Beloit campus), is from Randall, Kansas.&nbsp;

Kate Wise, General Education Instructor (Beloit campus), is from Beloit, Kansas, but grew up in Wichita. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication/ Theatre Arts from Sterling College and a Master’s degree in Library Science from Emporia State University.

With campuses in Beloit and Hays, Kansas, we are dedicated to being a leader in workforce development by maximizing value for students, employers and communities through educational excellence. Our mission is to deliver applied, innovative and personalized education to empower learners, enrich lives, develop skilled professionals and strengthen economic systems. Achieving excellence with integrity through dedication, innovation, collaboration and communication is what we attain through our core values.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584371385296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseNCK Tech recently announced the new faces and welcome additions to our North Central Kansas Technical College family.&nbsp; For this fall semester of 2021, NCK Tech would like to celebrate all new faculty and staff.&nbsp;Kathleen Albert, General Education Instructor (Hays campus), is from Plainville, Kansas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s degree in Communication from Fort Hays State University. She also has her Doctorate in chiropractic care from Cleveland University in Kansas City, Kansas.Mendi Anschutz, Director of Advancement in Foundation, is from Hays, Kansas. She has an Associate’s degree in Communications from Dodge City Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Public Relations from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Diana Baumann, Vice President of Finance &amp; Hays Operations, is from Hays, Kansas and has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Emma Carlin, Student Account Specialist in Finance &amp; Operations, is from Osborne, Kansas and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from Wichita State University.Rachel Cox, Student Success Coordinator (Hays campus), is from Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;Dalyn Diercks, Diesel Technology Instructor (Beloit campus), is from Agra, Kansas and holds an Associates of Applied Science from Barton Community College.Patricia Drees, Nursing Instructor (Hays campus), Is from Hays, Kansas. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in nursing from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Brett Gray, Commercial Driver License Instructor (Hays campus), is from Lacrosse, Kansas.&nbsp;Julie Gross, Nursing Instructor (Hays campus), is from Victoria, Kansas and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Sean Keady, General Education Instructor (Beloit campus), in from Glen Elder, Kansas, but grew up in Eastern North Carolina. He holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in math from East Carolina University.&nbsp;Jan Klaus, Carpentry/ Cabinetmaking Instructor Aide (Hays campus), is from Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;Harold Strait, Custodian/ Maintenance (Beloit campus), is from Randall, Kansas.&nbsp;Kate Wise, General Education Instructor (Beloit campus), is from Beloit, Kansas, but grew up in Wichita. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication/ Theatre Arts from Sterling College and a Master’s degree in Library Science from Emporia State University.With campuses in Beloit and Hays, Kansas, we are dedicated to being a leader in workforce development by maximizing value for students, employers and communities through educational excellence. Our mission is to deliver applied, innovative and personalized education to empower learners, enrich lives, develop skilled professionals and strengthen economic systems. Achieving excellence with integrity through dedication, innovation, collaboration and communication is what we attain through our core values.

New year, new faces at NCK Tech

Three-day weather outlook

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Not all coffees are created equal. Today we’ll meet a couple of artisan coffee roasters who have learned the truth of this statement and applied it to their remarkable coffee business.&nbsp;

Ray Ford and Joel Heath are the makers of this remarkable coffee. They are co-owners of Burr Roasters &amp; Cafe in Leavenworth.&nbsp;

Ray Ford grew up in Kentucky and joined the Army. “I grew up with bad coffee,” Ray said. “Everybody drinks coffee in the field,” he said. “(The coffee is) warm and you’re cold.” Soldiers drank whatever coffee was provided.&nbsp;

Ray took a job in retail which included working in a coffee shop. “I got a knack for it,” Ray said.&nbsp;

He finished his Army career at Fort Leavenworth. An Army friend named Johnny Kasper was also in his church. They talked about opening a coffee shop in Leavenworth after they retired. Together, they opened Burr Roasters, a veteran-owned, small-batch roastery and coffee shop located in historic downtown Leavenworth.&nbsp;

Ray learned that there is a distinct science related to making really good coffee. It became clear that not all coffee is created equal. Part of the key to quality is producing it in small batches, rather than mass production. Another factor is insisting on beans that are fresh. A third is sourcing the right kind of coffee beans. Ray works closely with his suppliers to ensure they acquire the best possible blends. Burr Roasters carefully sources its coffee from selected locations in Brazil, Colombia and Ethiopia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Different elevations and different soil contents produce different flavors,” Ray said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There’s a whole science behind it.” Ray and Johnny experimented with various blends, gave them away to friends, and developed their favorites.&nbsp;

Then they made a fascinating historic discovery which connected them to their Army roots. They learned that, from 1916 to 1956, the U. S. Army employed its own team of master coffee roasters to meet the massive coffee demand from soldiers around the world. There were several Army coffee production facilities across the nation, including the largest at a location called Warehouse 310 in Atlanta. Then, in the interest of efficiency and economy, the Army switched to commercial mass-produced sources of coffee in the 1950s.&nbsp;

Ray and Johnny found a 1956 book titled “Coffee in the Armed Forces” which included various blends and coffee-making tips. After some experimenting, they found the coffee was terrific and they adapted it into their business. Eventually, Johnny’s interest in the business was purchased by fellow Army veteran Joel Heath, who is now the chief roaster.&nbsp;

Today, Burr Roasters &amp; Café serves fresh coffee at their coffee shop, delivers locally and produces roasted coffee blends for sale and shipment. One popular variety is based on the classic Army recipes. It is named Warehouse 310, in honor of what had been the Army’s leading coffee facility. “It’s a fantastic bag of coffee,” Johnny said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s smooth, mild, warm and hazelnutty.”&nbsp;

Burr Roasters &amp; Cafe offers another blend called IV Drip, a highly caffeinated coffee which is popular with first responders and night-shift hospital workers. They also offer an Ethiopian blend called Lion of Judah, plus blends named 0 Dark Thirty, Texas Pecan, Choconut and an espresso called Pony Espresso. Ray’s daughter bakes cookies and scones for the business.&nbsp;

In addition to the local retail trade, Burr Roasters &amp; Cafe serves wholesale customers.&nbsp;&nbsp;One is a coffeehouse in the rural community of Haviland, population 701 people. Now, that’s rural. Burr Roasters also ships its coffee blends coast to coast and as far away as England and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

“We always use fresh beans. People have told us how much of a difference it makes,” Ray said. “My most rewarding element is how happy people can get from having a cup of coffee. We take care of our customers, and they come back.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.burr-roasters.com/">their website</a>.&nbsp;

Not all coffee is created equal. We commend Ray Ford and Joel Heath of Burr Roasters &amp; Café or making a difference with craftsmanship in coffee while connecting with their Army roots. Some say their type of coffee is unequaled.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627482656256.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Not all coffees are created equal. Today we’ll meet a couple of artisan coffee roasters who have learned the truth of this statement and applied it to their remarkable coffee business.&nbsp;Ray Ford and Joel Heath are the makers of this remarkable coffee. They are co-owners of Burr Roasters &amp; Cafe in Leavenworth.&nbsp;Ray Ford grew up in Kentucky and joined the Army. “I grew up with bad coffee,” Ray said. “Everybody drinks coffee in the field,” he said. “(The coffee is) warm and you’re cold.” Soldiers drank whatever coffee was provided.&nbsp;Ray took a job in retail which included working in a coffee shop. “I got a knack for it,” Ray said.&nbsp;He finished his Army career at Fort Leavenworth. An Army friend named Johnny Kasper was also in his church. They talked about opening a coffee shop in Leavenworth after they retired. Together, they opened Burr Roasters, a veteran-owned, small-batch roastery and coffee shop located in historic downtown Leavenworth.&nbsp;Ray learned that there is a distinct science related to making really good coffee. It became clear that not all coffee is created equal. Part of the key to quality is producing it in small batches, rather than mass production. Another factor is insisting on beans that are fresh. A third is sourcing the right kind of coffee beans. Ray works closely with his suppliers to ensure they acquire the best possible blends. Burr Roasters carefully sources its coffee from selected locations in Brazil, Colombia and Ethiopia.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Different elevations and different soil contents produce different flavors,” Ray said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There’s a whole science behind it.” Ray and Johnny experimented with various blends, gave them away to friends, and developed their favorites.&nbsp;Then they made a fascinating historic discovery which connected them to their Army roots. They learned that, from 1916 to 1956, the U. S. Army employed its own team of master coffee roasters to meet the massive coffee demand from soldiers around the world. There were several Army coffee production facilities across the nation, including the largest at a location called Warehouse 310 in Atlanta. Then, in the interest of efficiency and economy, the Army switched to commercial mass-produced sources of coffee in the 1950s.&nbsp;Ray and Johnny found a 1956 book titled “Coffee in the Armed Forces” which included various blends and coffee-making tips. After some experimenting, they found the coffee was terrific and they adapted it into their business. Eventually, Johnny’s interest in the business was purchased by fellow Army veteran Joel Heath, who is now the chief roaster.&nbsp;Today, Burr Roasters &amp; Café serves fresh coffee at their coffee shop, delivers locally and produces roasted coffee blends for sale and shipment. One popular variety is based on the classic Army recipes. It is named Warehouse 310, in honor of what had been the Army’s leading coffee facility. “It’s a fantastic bag of coffee,” Johnny said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s smooth, mild, warm and hazelnutty.”&nbsp;Burr Roasters &amp; Cafe offers another blend called IV Drip, a highly caffeinated coffee which is popular with first responders and night-shift hospital workers. They also offer an Ethiopian blend called Lion of Judah, plus blends named 0 Dark Thirty, Texas Pecan, Choconut and an espresso called Pony Espresso. Ray’s daughter bakes cookies and scones for the business.&nbsp;In addition to the local retail trade, Burr Roasters &amp; Cafe serves wholesale customers.&nbsp;&nbsp;One is a coffeehouse in the rural community of Haviland, population 701 people. Now, that’s rural. Burr Roasters also ships its coffee blends coast to coast and as far away as England and Afghanistan.&nbsp;“We always use fresh beans. People have told us how much of a difference it makes,” Ray said. “My most rewarding element is how happy people can get from having a cup of coffee. We take care of our customers, and they come back.”&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.burr-roasters.com/">their website</a>.&nbsp;Not all coffee is created equal. We commend Ray Ford and Joel Heath of Burr Roasters &amp; Café or making a difference with craftsmanship in coffee while connecting with their Army roots. Some say their type of coffee is unequaled.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Ray Ford and Joel Heath, Burr Roasters 

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WIN! Riedel Garden Center Grandparents Day Photo Contest

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

The Cottonwood Extension District and participating seed companies will be hosting Grain Sorghum Plot Field Days in both Barton and Ellis Counties on Thursday. These field days not only give farmers a chance to see and hear about the hybrids from company representatives, but for farmer to farmer sharing of experiences and ideas, says Stacy Campbell Extension Agent with the Cottonwood District.&nbsp;

The Barton County field day will start at 10:30 a.m. and conclude at noon with a complimentary meal courtesy of sponsors. It is located at the intersection of NW 30th Rd. and NW 70th Ave. On HWY. 96 just east of Heizer, turn onto the blacktop NW 60th Ave and go 1 mile south and turn west onto NW 30th Road and go 1 mile.

The Ellis County field day is that evening beginning at 5:30 p.m. and will also conclude with a complimentary supper, courtesy of the seed company sponsors. Directions from Hays go south on HWY. 183 at the South County Line road turn east and go 1.5 miles.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Seed Company representatives will be on-hand to discuss their sorghum hybrids and answer questions. Extension Agronomy specialists Lucas Haag will visit about K-State Research &amp; Extension’s new nitrogen recommendations for corn, and sorghum and answer questions. Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Specialist will discuss weed control options and tactics. As always in this informal setting there will be time for questions, feedback and discussion.&nbsp;

All interested people are invited to attend. RSVP is appreciated by Tuesday, September 7th by emailing either Brenda <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> or call the Great Bend Office, 620-793-1910, and Theresa <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a> or call the Hays Office, 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630601995865.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Cottonwood Extension District and participating seed companies will be hosting Grain Sorghum Plot Field Days in both Barton and Ellis Counties on Thursday. These field days not only give farmers a chance to see and hear about the hybrids from company representatives, but for farmer to farmer sharing of experiences and ideas, says Stacy Campbell Extension Agent with the Cottonwood District.&nbsp;The Barton County field day will start at 10:30 a.m. and conclude at noon with a complimentary meal courtesy of sponsors. It is located at the intersection of NW 30th Rd. and NW 70th Ave. On HWY. 96 just east of Heizer, turn onto the blacktop NW 60th Ave and go 1 mile south and turn west onto NW 30th Road and go 1 mile.The Ellis County field day is that evening beginning at 5:30 p.m. and will also conclude with a complimentary supper, courtesy of the seed company sponsors. Directions from Hays go south on HWY. 183 at the South County Line road turn east and go 1.5 miles.&nbsp; &nbsp;Seed Company representatives will be on-hand to discuss their sorghum hybrids and answer questions. Extension Agronomy specialists Lucas Haag will visit about K-State Research &amp; Extension’s new nitrogen recommendations for corn, and sorghum and answer questions. Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Specialist will discuss weed control options and tactics. As always in this informal setting there will be time for questions, feedback and discussion.&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend. RSVP is appreciated by Tuesday, September 7th by emailing either Brenda <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> or call the Great Bend Office, 620-793-1910, and Theresa <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a> or call the Hays Office, 785-628-9430.

Grain sorghum plot field day set for Thursday

MANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has recently updated its interactive map of Kansas, showing the economic contribution of agriculture across the state. Located on the KDA website, this interactive resource can be used to find the agricultural economic facts for each of the 105 counties in Kansas, as well as a report for the entire state.

In <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ag-marketing/county-ag-stats/2021-county-reports/2021-ellis-county.pdf?sfvrsn=697797c1_4">Ellis County</a>, the beef cattle ranching and farming, including feedlots and dual-purpose ranching and farming sector is the top contributor in output to the local Ellis County economy, with approximately $44 million in total output.

“Agriculture has a significant impact on the Kansas economy, and every county across the state plays an important role in that economic contribution, said Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam. “We know that our farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses across a variety of commodity sectors continue to innovate and find ways to meet the needs of the nation and the world.

KDA annually updates the state and county economic contributions of the 72 sectors of agriculture and agriculture-related industries which directly affect the state’s economy. These sectors contribute an estimated $47.3 billion in direct output and account for over 135,000 jobs in Kansas. In addition to the direct output, the reports include the indirect and induced effects of agriculture and ag-related sectors, which demonstrate the total impact that agriculture has in Kansas communities. This total economic contribution of agriculture is approximately $67 billion and supports more than 238,000 jobs statewide.

The economic reports include lists of the top ten sectors by output and by employment. Once again the state’s top sector in both categories is beef cattle ranching and farming, which includes feedlots and dual-purpose ranching and farming. Other notable sectors in these top ten lists include grain farming, animal (except poultry) slaughtering, and dog and cat food manufacturing.

Updated county and state economic impact data as well as export data is available on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MzAuNDUyNDE4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9rc2FnP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.KvfUPmK61RDdSqUucRdfYhxUjSg-aEDYsJOaS9-ve-I/s/1377890880/br/111609577609-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/ksag</a>. For updated information, click on a county and find the “2021 Full Report for County” after the county sector list. KDA utilizes data compiled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service and by Euromonitor International.

The economic contribution data is sourced from the most recent IMPLAN data available (2019) and adjusted for 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630356583926.jpeg" alt="Adjusted for 2021, Ellis County’s top ten agriculturr sectors by output, including direct, indirect and induced&nbsp;effects. The beef cattle ranching and farming, including feedlots and dual-purpose ranching and farming&nbsp;sector is the top contributor in output to the Ellis County economy, with approximately $44 million in&nbsp;total output." />
 <figcaption>Adjusted for 2021, Ellis County’s top ten agriculturr sectors by output, including direct, indirect and induced&nbsp;effects. The beef cattle ranching and farming, including feedlots and dual-purpose ranching and farming&nbsp;sector is the top contributor in output to the Ellis County economy, with approximately $44 million in&nbsp;total output.</figcaption>
 </figure>KDAMANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has recently updated its interactive map of Kansas, showing the economic contribution of agriculture across the state. Located on the KDA website, this interactive resource can be used to find the agricultural economic facts for each of the 105 counties in Kansas, as well as a report for the entire state.In <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ag-marketing/county-ag-stats/2021-county-reports/2021-ellis-county.pdf?sfvrsn=697797c1_4">Ellis County</a>, the beef cattle ranching and farming, including feedlots and dual-purpose ranching and farming sector is the top contributor in output to the local Ellis County economy, with approximately $44 million in total output.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630356583926.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630357176043.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Agriculture has a significant impact on the Kansas economy, and every county across the state plays an important role in that economic contribution, said Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam. “We know that our farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses across a variety of commodity sectors continue to innovate and find ways to meet the needs of the nation and the world.KDA annually updates the state and county economic contributions of the 72 sectors of agriculture and agriculture-related industries which directly affect the state’s economy. These sectors contribute an estimated $47.3 billion in direct output and account for over 135,000 jobs in Kansas. In addition to the direct output, the reports include the indirect and induced effects of agriculture and ag-related sectors, which demonstrate the total impact that agriculture has in Kansas communities. This total economic contribution of agriculture is approximately $67 billion and supports more than 238,000 jobs statewide.The economic reports include lists of the top ten sectors by output and by employment. Once again the state’s top sector in both categories is beef cattle ranching and farming, which includes feedlots and dual-purpose ranching and farming. Other notable sectors in these top ten lists include grain farming, animal (except poultry) slaughtering, and dog and cat food manufacturing.Updated county and state economic impact data as well as export data is available on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MzAuNDUyNDE4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9rc2FnP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.KvfUPmK61RDdSqUucRdfYhxUjSg-aEDYsJOaS9-ve-I/s/1377890880/br/111609577609-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/ksag</a>. For updated information, click on a county and find the “2021 Full Report for County” after the county sector list. KDA utilizes data compiled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service and by Euromonitor International. The economic contribution data is sourced from the most recent IMPLAN data available (2019) and adjusted for 2021.

KDA: Beef cattle ranching and farming is top ag output for Ellis County 

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Monday, Aug. 30, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Water Use
Violation—1700 block Judith Dr, Hays; 1:46 AM 
&nbsp;Aggravated Battery—200 block W 7th St,
Hays; 5:45 AM 
Animal At Large--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 7:21 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2300 block E 15th St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen—100 block W 13th St, Hays; 11:04 AM 
Harassment (All Other)—400 block E 17th St, Hays; 11:32 AM 
Drug Offenses—300 block E 13th St, Hay; 11:54 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—100 block W 11th St, Hays; 1:51 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY---1300 block Felten Dr, Hays; 4:50 PM 
Welfare Check—1400 block E 25th St, Hays; 6:23 PM 
Criminal Trespass—2100 block Wheatland Ave, Hays; 6:37 PM 
Civil Dispute—3700 block Colonial St, Hays; 7:16 PM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 9:24 PM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 11:30 PM 
Battery – Domestic—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 11:49 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 20 traffic stops Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Animal
Injured—1300 block Pine St, Hays; 7:28 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--6th and Elm, Hays; 10:15 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--12th and Milner, Hays; 11:58 AM 
Theft (general—100 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:14 PM 
Welfare Check—1400 block E 25th St, Hays; 12:18 PM 
Water Use Violation—3000 block Tam O'Shanter, Hays; 1:33 PM; 1:35 PM 
Dangerous Animal—2200 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 2:29 PM 
Theft (general)—300 block E 12th St, Hays; 2:46 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 3:13 PM 
Water Use Violation—2000 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 5:45 PM 
Criminal Trespass—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 6 PM 
Civil Dispute--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 7:13 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 7:42 PM; 7:44 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1600 block Fort St, Hays; 8:25 PM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 11th St, Hays; 8:25 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 9 PM 
MV Accident-Property Damage--2200 block Drum Ave, Hays; 8/30 10 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 14 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Criminal
Trespass—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hay; 1:54 AM 
Water Use Violation—1700 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 6:43 AM 
Water Use Violation--500 block W 37th St, Hays; 7:44 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8/13 5 PM 
Animal At Large—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 8:51 AM 
Suspicious Activity--2700 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 10:59 AM 
Water Use Violation—1400 block Main St, Hays; 1:21 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—400 block W 16th St, Hays; 4:05 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--800 block Walnut St, Hays; 4:54 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 6:55 PM Harassment,
Telephone/FAX—3500 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 7:24 PM 
Robbery—1300 block Felten Dr, Hays; 7:25 PM; 7:27 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 17th St, Hays; 7:52 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Monday, Aug. 30, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Water Use
Violation—1700 block Judith Dr, Hays; 1:46 AM 
&nbsp;Aggravated Battery—200 block W 7th St,
Hays; 5:45 AM 
Animal At Large--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 7:21 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2300 block E 15th St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Bicycle - Lost,Found,Stolen—100 block W 13th St, Hays; 11:04 AM 
Harassment (All Other)—400 block E 17th St, Hays; 11:32 AM 
Drug Offenses—300 block E 13th St, Hay; 11:54 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—100 block W 11th St, Hays; 1:51 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY---1300 block Felten Dr, Hays; 4:50 PM 
Welfare Check—1400 block E 25th St, Hays; 6:23 PM 
Criminal Trespass—2100 block Wheatland Ave, Hays; 6:37 PM 
Civil Dispute—3700 block Colonial St, Hays; 7:16 PM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 9:24 PM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 10:30 PM; 11:30 PM 
Battery – Domestic—200 block E 14th St, Hays; 11:49 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 20 traffic stops Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Animal
Injured—1300 block Pine St, Hays; 7:28 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--6th and Elm, Hays; 10:15 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--12th and Milner, Hays; 11:58 AM 
Theft (general—100 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:14 PM 
Welfare Check—1400 block E 25th St, Hays; 12:18 PM 
Water Use Violation—3000 block Tam O'Shanter, Hays; 1:33 PM; 1:35 PM 
Dangerous Animal—2200 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 2:29 PM 
Theft (general)—300 block E 12th St, Hays; 2:46 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 3:13 PM 
Water Use Violation—2000 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 5:45 PM 
Criminal Trespass—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 6 PM 
Civil Dispute--1000 block E 41st St, Hays; 7:13 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 7:42 PM; 7:44 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1600 block Fort St, Hays; 8:25 PM 
Criminal Trespass—200 block E 11th St, Hays; 8:25 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property--300 block W 9th St, Hays; 9 PM 
MV Accident-Property Damage--2200 block Drum Ave, Hays; 8/30 10 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 14 animal calls and conducted 10 traffic stops Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Criminal
Trespass—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hay; 1:54 AM 
Water Use Violation—1700 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 6:43 AM 
Water Use Violation--500 block W 37th St, Hays; 7:44 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8/13 5 PM 
Animal At Large—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 8:51 AM 
Suspicious Activity--2700 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 10:59 AM 
Water Use Violation—1400 block Main St, Hays; 1:21 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—400 block W 16th St, Hays; 4:05 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--800 block Walnut St, Hays; 4:54 PM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 6:55 PM Harassment,
Telephone/FAX—3500 block Lincoln Dr, Hays; 7:24 PM 
Robbery—1300 block Felten Dr, Hays; 7:25 PM; 7:27 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 17th St, Hays; 7:52 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, Aug. 31 - Sept. 1

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares updates on commercial and infrastructure development in the area.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director Doug Williams shares updates on local development" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6862k-10d2822-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares updates on commercial and infrastructure development in the area.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Grow Hays director shares updates on local development

As Fort Hays State University students settle into a new year at the university, a newly open facility is providing services that bridge the gap between the classroom and life in one convenient building.

"That's our one-stop-shop for student services and student engagement and it is phenomenal," said Fort Hays State University president Tisa Mason of the&nbsp;Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success.

While final details continue to be applied to the building, she invites the public to visit.

"I hope people in the community will come to campus and walk through it and see it," Mason said. "Our first floor has a beautiful welcome center which is still under construction, but it should be done by Homecoming."

In the entryway is the Tiger Pact, a pledge by students to support the community, opening up to academic engagement and career services.

"If you have any issues outside of the classroom you are questioning or need some help with, the first floor is there for you," said Joey Linn, vice president for Student Affairs at Fort Hays State University.

"The second floor is our student engagement center, which is phenomenal and the way the bridge connects the Memorial Union to that building was so thoughtful," Mason said.

Students have already taken to studying in the space in between classes, she said.

With&nbsp;offices for student groups like Fraternity/Sorority Life, Student Government and other student groups, Linn said he expects it to be a hub of activity.

"I suspect lights will be on all the time on the second floor," he said.

At the top of the new building, a holistic approach to student health has been adopted, merging different health care types into one place.

"The third floor is the health and wellness service floor, which really combines our Kelly Center, our counseling, mental health services with our student health services," Linn said.

"I love that we are merging the Kelly Center and Student Health on the third floor and renamed it Health and Student Wellness," Mason said.

Linn said because they work so closely together having them in one shared space is important to get a well-rounded approach to student well-being.

"I remember Richard and Dolores saying that 'we want to help students, that's what we want to do. That's our legacy,' Linn said. "And when I explained what our concept was and what our dream was of the center, they were just like, 'This is it.'"

And while the new facility will provide space for on-campus students to prosper during the academic tenure, he said it will also be of use to the university's expansive virtual college.

"We are going to be doing live webinars, workshops, video workshops," Linn said. "We are going to be there for our virtual college students to reach out."&nbsp;

But to make that work, cutting-edge communications technologies must be in place, and the new center fits the bill.

"It's important to have the absolute top-of-the-line infrastructure," Linn said. "That's one thing Fort Hays State University has done, we have put our money where our mouth is and we have invested in our technology."

But sadly, those virtual students may not be able to take in the new views created by the center regularly.&nbsp;

"When you look out the windows you see our beautiful quad," Mason said.&nbsp;

Fort Hays State University Alumni Association communications coordinator Noelle Husmann said homecoming would present an opportune time to visit the new center.

"We are having a ribbon cutting with the chamber on Friday, Oct. 1 for the&nbsp;Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success and we to invite all of the alumni in the community, all the community members come in and see this really cool building."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630727330733.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAs Fort Hays State University students settle into a new year at the university, a newly open facility is providing services that bridge the gap between the classroom and life in one convenient building."That's our one-stop-shop for student services and student engagement and it is phenomenal," said Fort Hays State University president Tisa Mason of the&nbsp;Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success.While final details continue to be applied to the building, she invites the public to visit."I hope people in the community will come to campus and walk through it and see it," Mason said. "Our first floor has a beautiful welcome center which is still under construction, but it should be done by Homecoming."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630727363722.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In the entryway is the Tiger Pact, a pledge by students to support the community, opening up to academic engagement and career services."If you have any issues outside of the classroom you are questioning or need some help with, the first floor is there for you," said Joey Linn, vice president for Student Affairs at Fort Hays State University."The second floor is our student engagement center, which is phenomenal and the way the bridge connects the Memorial Union to that building was so thoughtful," Mason said.Students have already taken to studying in the space in between classes, she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630727389162.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With&nbsp;offices for student groups like Fraternity/Sorority Life, Student Government and other student groups, Linn said he expects it to be a hub of activity."I suspect lights will be on all the time on the second floor," he said.At the top of the new building, a holistic approach to student health has been adopted, merging different health care types into one place."The third floor is the health and wellness service floor, which really combines our Kelly Center, our counseling, mental health services with our student health services," Linn said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630727413846.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"I love that we are merging the Kelly Center and Student Health on the third floor and renamed it Health and Student Wellness," Mason said.Linn said because they work so closely together having them in one shared space is important to get a well-rounded approach to student well-being."I remember Richard and Dolores saying that 'we want to help students, that's what we want to do. That's our legacy,' Linn said. "And when I explained what our concept was and what our dream was of the center, they were just like, 'This is it.'"And while the new facility will provide space for on-campus students to prosper during the academic tenure, he said it will also be of use to the university's expansive virtual college."We are going to be doing live webinars, workshops, video workshops," Linn said. "We are going to be there for our virtual college students to reach out."&nbsp;But to make that work, cutting-edge communications technologies must be in place, and the new center fits the bill."It's important to have the absolute top-of-the-line infrastructure," Linn said. "That's one thing Fort Hays State University has done, we have put our money where our mouth is and we have invested in our technology."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630727435520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>But sadly, those virtual students may not be able to take in the new views created by the center regularly.&nbsp;"When you look out the windows you see our beautiful quad," Mason said.&nbsp;Fort Hays State University Alumni Association communications coordinator Noelle Husmann said homecoming would present an opportune time to visit the new center."We are having a ribbon cutting with the chamber on Friday, Oct. 1 for the&nbsp;Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success and we to invite all of the alumni in the community, all the community members come in and see this really cool building."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630727479316.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

'One-stop-shop' for student services opens on Fort Hays State University campus

By DOUG KENNEDY <a href="https://www.newschannelnebraska.com/story/44667046/new-administrator-at-the-helm-of-southeast-community-college-beatrice-campus">News Channel Nebraska</a>

BEATRICE, Neb. — The new Campus Director at Southeast Community College in Beatrice is on board.

Brett
 Bright will also serve as SCC Vice President of Program Development and
 Athletic Administrator. The Velma, Oklahoma, native was formerly a 
Vice-President at Hutchinson Community College in Kansas. Bright said 
seeing the college in Beatrice progressing and growing is exciting. His 
first day on the job was Wednesday and he said staff members have been 
very welcoming.

Although
 there are differences between Hutch and Beatrice, Bright says the 
mission is the same…educating students and helping grow the workforce.

We asked him if taking on a three-part role is somewhat daunting.

"Not
 really...I have backgrounds in all of them. I served as an athletic 
director before and served as an assistant region director, and I really
 enjoy attending sports and things of that nature. I served as a Vice 
President at Hutchinson for the past six and a half years and I was Vice
 Chancellor and Associate Vice Chancellor prior to that. Looking at the 
program development side of it....that's going to be a little be 
daunting and different, so I'm going to have to rely on our other team 
members, and we'll do it together."

SCC
 has grown its list of competitive sports to include men’s and women’s 
basketball, volleyball, men’s golf, baseball and softball, soccer and 
cross country. Hutchinson has those, plus football and track and field.&nbsp;
 "I've met with the president and we've talked about expansion of 
certain areas and as part of my program development, I will be looking 
to expand athletics if we had that opportunity to do so."

Bright
 said he’s interested in continuing to grow the campus and its 
enrollment. Community colleges in Nebraska and Kansas often have a cost 
advantage over other colleges….something Bright acknowledges is 
important for students.&nbsp; "If you spend your first two years at a 
community college before you transfer on to a four-year degree, 
basically the savings that you have for the first two years will pay you
 for your third year at a university. So, looking at those cost savings,
 community college is a great investment."

Higher
 education, like other sectors, has dealt with the impact of the 
coronavirus….with online and in-person scheduling and changes in 
athletic seasons. Bright favors the face-to-face approach.

"We
 had the ability to educate our students face-to-face because that's 
what our students want. If they wanted to be online they would have 
enrolled in online classes, so those students who enrolled face-to-face,
 we want to be able to provide that to them....that classroom setting. 
Students learn in different ways and so we want to serve their needs, 
and provide that forum."

Bright
 takes over for Bob Morgan, who retired from SCC this summer, after 31 
years with the college.&nbsp; Bright earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees 
from East Central University in Oklahoma, and a degree in administration
 from Fort Hays State University.

He has two children — a daughter who is a junior at Kansas University and a son who is a freshman in high school.

Republished with permission. Updated 10:30 a.m. Monday to clarify headline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630707389586.png" alt="Brett Bright, new SCC Beatrice Campus Director" />
 <figcaption>Brett Bright, new SCC Beatrice Campus Director</figcaption>
 </figure>By DOUG KENNEDY <a href="https://www.newschannelnebraska.com/story/44667046/new-administrator-at-the-helm-of-southeast-community-college-beatrice-campus">News Channel Nebraska</a>BEATRICE, Neb. — The new Campus Director at Southeast Community College in Beatrice is on board.Brett
 Bright will also serve as SCC Vice President of Program Development and
 Athletic Administrator. The Velma, Oklahoma, native was formerly a 
Vice-President at Hutchinson Community College in Kansas. Bright said 
seeing the college in Beatrice progressing and growing is exciting. His 
first day on the job was Wednesday and he said staff members have been 
very welcoming.Although
 there are differences between Hutch and Beatrice, Bright says the 
mission is the same…educating students and helping grow the workforce.We asked him if taking on a three-part role is somewhat daunting."Not
 really...I have backgrounds in all of them. I served as an athletic 
director before and served as an assistant region director, and I really
 enjoy attending sports and things of that nature. I served as a Vice 
President at Hutchinson for the past six and a half years and I was Vice
 Chancellor and Associate Vice Chancellor prior to that. Looking at the 
program development side of it....that's going to be a little be 
daunting and different, so I'm going to have to rely on our other team 
members, and we'll do it together."SCC
 has grown its list of competitive sports to include men’s and women’s 
basketball, volleyball, men’s golf, baseball and softball, soccer and 
cross country. Hutchinson has those, plus football and track and field.&nbsp;
 "I've met with the president and we've talked about expansion of 
certain areas and as part of my program development, I will be looking 
to expand athletics if we had that opportunity to do so."Bright
 said he’s interested in continuing to grow the campus and its 
enrollment. Community colleges in Nebraska and Kansas often have a cost 
advantage over other colleges….something Bright acknowledges is 
important for students.&nbsp; "If you spend your first two years at a 
community college before you transfer on to a four-year degree, 
basically the savings that you have for the first two years will pay you
 for your third year at a university. So, looking at those cost savings,
 community college is a great investment."Higher
 education, like other sectors, has dealt with the impact of the 
coronavirus….with online and in-person scheduling and changes in 
athletic seasons. Bright favors the face-to-face approach."We
 had the ability to educate our students face-to-face because that's 
what our students want. If they wanted to be online they would have 
enrolled in online classes, so those students who enrolled face-to-face,
 we want to be able to provide that to them....that classroom setting. 
Students learn in different ways and so we want to serve their needs, 
and provide that forum."Bright
 takes over for Bob Morgan, who retired from SCC this summer, after 31 
years with the college.&nbsp; Bright earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees 
from East Central University in Oklahoma, and a degree in administration
 from Fort Hays State University.He has two children — a daughter who is a junior at Kansas University and a son who is a freshman in high school.Republished with permission. Updated 10:30 a.m. Monday to clarify headline.

FHSU alum now at the helm of Neb. community college

Old World bluestem is crowding out native grass specie

By DAVID CONDOS <a href="https://www.hppr.org/2021-09-02/kansas-needs-to-hurry-to-stop-an-invasive-grass-from-changing-the-prairie-forever">Kansas News Service</a>

Keith Harmoney crouches down in a pale yellow field outside his 
office in Hays. He pushes back a cluster of tightly packed two-foot-tall grass, 
revealing the ground underneath.

In a typical native Kansas 
grassland, he’d expect to find roughly a dozen different plant species 
in the square foot of earth between his boots.

“Here, all we see — basically for 10, 11, 12 yards — is just one single species,” Harmoney said. “That's Old World bluestem.”

The
 invasive grass has turned this piece of northwest Kansas prairie into a
 monoculture, where a single species crowds out all the others until 
it’s the last one standing. 

And as it creeps its way across the Plains, Old World bluestem is taking over more and more fields like this one.

Harmoney, a range scientist at the Kansas State University 
Agricultural Research Center in Hays, is one of the people charged with 
finding ways to stop it. But he isn’t overly optimistic about his 
chances.

“It has the upper hand right now,” Harmoney said, “It kind of feels like the Old World bluestem is going to win.”

Decades ago, humans introduced Old World bluestem, or OWB, to this part of the Plains. But some of the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">characteristics</a>
 that made the plant an attractive import — its aggressive growth, 
prolific seed production and hardy tolerance to drought, fire and 
grazing — are the same ones that make it so difficult to rein in. Once 
it dominates a field, it’s nearly impossible to eradicate.

Now, 
Old World bluestem is transforming pastures and grasslands into 
biodiversity wastelands. Some researchers and landowners are rushing to 
sound the alarm in hopes of helping more people understand how Kansas 
can keep this invasive grass from overtaking the state — if it’s not 
already too late.

Both types of Old World bluestem growing 
in Kansas — yellow bluestem and Caucasian bluestem — are native to Asia 
and Europe. And like many invasive species, people brought them to the 
Great Plains on purpose.

The federal government planted OWB to <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">rehabilitate land</a> after the Dust Bowl. Highway departments have used it to control <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">roadside erosion</a>.

In
 the latter half of the 20th century, K-State’s research center planted 
the grass in Hays to study its potential for cattle grazing. The 
monoculture fields in the surrounding areas today stand as metastasized 
remnants of those studies.

Even the USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program has <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">encouraged</a> landowners to plant it widely, particularly in Oklahoma and other parts of the southern Plains.

Those purposeful plantings allowed OWB to get a foothold. And the invasive grass took off from there.

“It's
 highly competitive,” Karen Hickman, director of Oklahoma State 
University’s environmental science program, said. “It can outcompete and
 outgrow — and inhibit the growth of — other native plants.”

One of the more sinister ways the plant does this is by chemically 
changing the soil to be less habitable for neighboring vegetation. 

The invasive grass releases substances, known as allelopathic chemicals, into the dirt that surrounds it. Hickman’s <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266555107_Experimental_evidence_that_invasive_grasses_use_allelopathic_biochemicals_as_a_potential_mechanism_for_invasion_chemical_warfare_in_nature" target="_blank">research</a>
 shows that this biochemical warfare significantly inhibits the future 
growth, reproduction and survival of nearby native grasses.

Once an Old World bluestem infestation takes root, its impact on the native ecosystem can be dramatic. 

Fewer native plants means <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">fewer insects</a>, especially bees and butterflies that rely on wildflowers. Fewer native plants and insects means <a href="https://www.kansas.com/sports/outdoors/article39664398.html" target="_blank">fewer birds</a>, such as lesser prairie chickens and songbirds.

“Native
 prairie is important to our system...from carbon storage to erosion 
control to pollinators,” Hickman said. “When we start forgetting 
that...that gets to be a sad day.”

It’s not just about wildlife. Old World bluestem could also <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ks/newsroom/features/?cid=nrcseprd1336646" target="_blank">threaten ranchers' livelihoods</a> due to the extreme cost of managing it once it's established.

Even though it has long been planted for grazing, it’s not generally as <a href="https://neinvasives.com/species/plants/yellow-bluestem" target="_blank">nutritious or appetizing</a>
 as traditional Great Plains prairie grasses. So in pastures that 
include both invasive and native plants, cattle will often avoid eating 
OWB and overgraze the others instead. That can damage native species and
 give the invader another leg up.

Climate change may also benefit 
Old World bluestem. One of the plant’s weaknesses is that it’s less cold
 tolerant than native grasses. But as temperatures warm, its range could
 inch farther north. It’s now found in some parts of <a href="https://neinvasives.com/species/plants/yellow-bluestem" target="_blank">southern Nebraska</a>.

Yet, humans continue to give Old World bluestem a helping hand. 

Hickman
 said people commonly — and often unknowingly — spread its seeds along 
roadside ditches with mowers and across fields in the undercarriages of 
trucks and farm implements. The seeds can also travel from one property 
to another in <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2016/05/oldworldbluestem051816.html" target="_blank">contaminated hay</a> bales.

Kansans
 can help keep OWB in check by removing any small patches that sprout up
 on or around their property and cleaning the seeds off vehicles before 
they drive through.

“As with all invasive species,” she said, “prevention is key.”

If
 someone discovers widespread Old World bluestem on their land today, 
their options for eliminating it are limited. Hickman said the best 
results are likely to come from some combination of herbicide, burning, 
grazing and tilling to try to push the invasive grass into decline.

But
 all that could cost tens of thousands of dollars, and even if those 
efforts succeed, landowners would need to remain vigilant for the 
plant's return for years to come.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684835330.png" alt="Range scientist Keith Harmoney inspects a research plot that's being overtaken by Old World bluestem at the K-State agricultural center in Hays. David Condos / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Range scientist Keith Harmoney inspects a research plot that's being overtaken by Old World bluestem at the K-State agricultural center in Hays. David Condos / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Old World bluestem is crowding out native grass specie</h2>By DAVID CONDOS <a href="https://www.hppr.org/2021-09-02/kansas-needs-to-hurry-to-stop-an-invasive-grass-from-changing-the-prairie-forever">Kansas News Service</a>Keith Harmoney crouches down in a pale yellow field outside his 
office in Hays. He pushes back a cluster of tightly packed two-foot-tall grass, 
revealing the ground underneath.In a typical native Kansas 
grassland, he’d expect to find roughly a dozen different plant species 
in the square foot of earth between his boots.“Here, all we see — basically for 10, 11, 12 yards — is just one single species,” Harmoney said. “That's Old World bluestem.”The
 invasive grass has turned this piece of northwest Kansas prairie into a
 monoculture, where a single species crowds out all the others until 
it’s the last one standing. And as it creeps its way across the Plains, Old World bluestem is taking over more and more fields like this one.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684961400.png" alt="Keith Harmoney holds up an Old World bluestem seed head in a field that the invasive grass has taken over. The K-State research center can be seen in the distance. David Condos" />
 <figcaption>Keith Harmoney holds up an Old World bluestem seed head in a field that the invasive grass has taken over. The K-State research center can be seen in the distance. David Condos</figcaption>
 </figure>Harmoney, a range scientist at the Kansas State University 
Agricultural Research Center in Hays, is one of the people charged with 
finding ways to stop it. But he isn’t overly optimistic about his 
chances.“It has the upper hand right now,” Harmoney said, “It kind of feels like the Old World bluestem is going to win.”Decades ago, humans introduced Old World bluestem, or OWB, to this part of the Plains. But some of the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">characteristics</a>
 that made the plant an attractive import — its aggressive growth, 
prolific seed production and hardy tolerance to drought, fire and 
grazing — are the same ones that make it so difficult to rein in. Once 
it dominates a field, it’s nearly impossible to eradicate.Now, 
Old World bluestem is transforming pastures and grasslands into 
biodiversity wastelands. Some researchers and landowners are rushing to 
sound the alarm in hopes of helping more people understand how Kansas 
can keep this invasive grass from overtaking the state — if it’s not 
already too late.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684997395.png" alt="A lone sunflower plant survives at the edge of a field of Old World bluestem in Hays. David Condos" />
 <figcaption>A lone sunflower plant survives at the edge of a field of Old World bluestem in Hays. David Condos</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Bluestem blues</h2>Both types of Old World bluestem growing 
in Kansas — yellow bluestem and Caucasian bluestem — are native to Asia 
and Europe. And like many invasive species, people brought them to the 
Great Plains on purpose.The federal government planted OWB to <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">rehabilitate land</a> after the Dust Bowl. Highway departments have used it to control <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">roadside erosion</a>.In
 the latter half of the 20th century, K-State’s research center planted 
the grass in Hays to study its potential for cattle grazing. The 
monoculture fields in the surrounding areas today stand as metastasized 
remnants of those studies.Even the USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program has <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">encouraged</a> landowners to plant it widely, particularly in Oklahoma and other parts of the southern Plains.Those purposeful plantings allowed OWB to get a foothold. And the invasive grass took off from there.“It's
 highly competitive,” Karen Hickman, director of Oklahoma State 
University’s environmental science program, said. “It can outcompete and
 outgrow — and inhibit the growth of — other native plants.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630685032231.png" alt="This field in Rush County illustrates how Old World bluestem takes over a pasture. In the foreground, mixed grass prairie is home to a variety of plants. In the distance, monochromatic patches of yellow bluestem block native grasses from growing. David Condos" />
 <figcaption>This field in Rush County illustrates how Old World bluestem takes over a pasture. In the foreground, mixed grass prairie is home to a variety of plants. In the distance, monochromatic patches of yellow bluestem block native grasses from growing. David Condos</figcaption>
 </figure>One of the more sinister ways the plant does this is by chemically 
changing the soil to be less habitable for neighboring vegetation. The invasive grass releases substances, known as allelopathic chemicals, into the dirt that surrounds it. Hickman’s <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266555107_Experimental_evidence_that_invasive_grasses_use_allelopathic_biochemicals_as_a_potential_mechanism_for_invasion_chemical_warfare_in_nature" target="_blank">research</a>
 shows that this biochemical warfare significantly inhibits the future 
growth, reproduction and survival of nearby native grasses.Once an Old World bluestem infestation takes root, its impact on the native ecosystem can be dramatic. Fewer native plants means <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd599057.pdf" target="_blank">fewer insects</a>, especially bees and butterflies that rely on wildflowers. Fewer native plants and insects means <a href="https://www.kansas.com/sports/outdoors/article39664398.html" target="_blank">fewer birds</a>, such as lesser prairie chickens and songbirds.“Native
 prairie is important to our system...from carbon storage to erosion 
control to pollinators,” Hickman said. “When we start forgetting 
that...that gets to be a sad day.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630685064677.png" alt="Tightly bunched clumps of yellow bluestem crowd out other native plants in this Rush County pasture. David Condos" />
 <figcaption>Tightly bunched clumps of yellow bluestem crowd out other native plants in this Rush County pasture. David Condos</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘Prevention is key’</h2>It’s not just about wildlife. Old World bluestem could also <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ks/newsroom/features/?cid=nrcseprd1336646" target="_blank">threaten ranchers' livelihoods</a> due to the extreme cost of managing it once it's established.Even though it has long been planted for grazing, it’s not generally as <a href="https://neinvasives.com/species/plants/yellow-bluestem" target="_blank">nutritious or appetizing</a>
 as traditional Great Plains prairie grasses. So in pastures that 
include both invasive and native plants, cattle will often avoid eating 
OWB and overgraze the others instead. That can damage native species and
 give the invader another leg up.Climate change may also benefit 
Old World bluestem. One of the plant’s weaknesses is that it’s less cold
 tolerant than native grasses. But as temperatures warm, its range could
 inch farther north. It’s now found in some parts of <a href="https://neinvasives.com/species/plants/yellow-bluestem" target="_blank">southern Nebraska</a>.Yet, humans continue to give Old World bluestem a helping hand. Hickman
 said people commonly — and often unknowingly — spread its seeds along 
roadside ditches with mowers and across fields in the undercarriages of 
trucks and farm implements. The seeds can also travel from one property 
to another in <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2016/05/oldworldbluestem051816.html" target="_blank">contaminated hay</a> bales.Kansans
 can help keep OWB in check by removing any small patches that sprout up
 on or around their property and cleaning the seeds off vehicles before 
they drive through.“As with all invasive species,” she said, “prevention is key.”If
 someone discovers widespread Old World bluestem on their land today, 
their options for eliminating it are limited. Hickman said the best 
results are likely to come from some combination of herbicide, burning, 
grazing and tilling to try to push the invasive grass into decline.But
 all that could cost tens of thousands of dollars, and even if those 
efforts succeed, landowners would need to remain vigilant for the 
plant's return for years to come.“It's going to require a 
long-term investment,” Hickman said, “and the fear I have is that no 
one's going to see the importance of that.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630685101895.png" alt="Randy Rodgers holds one of the hundreds of Old World bluestem plants he has removed from his land with a shovel and bucket. David Condos" />
 <figcaption>Randy Rodgers holds one of the hundreds of Old World bluestem plants he has removed from his land with a shovel and bucket. David Condos</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The fight ahead</h2>That’s the dilemma facing western Kansas
 landowners like Randy Rodgers: If you find Old World bluestem, how much
 effort do you want to put into getting rid of it?Rodgers 
finished his career as a state wildlife biologist in 2010 and planned to
 spend his retirement fulfilling his long-time dream of caring for his 
land — a mix of pasture, prairie and farmland in southwestern Rush 
County.When he began buying the property over a decade ago, he 
wasn’t familiar with the invasive grass. But a few years in, he realized
 it already covered large sections of his fields.“You're left 
with a choice: Do you kill the Old World bluestem off and give your 
remaining native grasses a chance to repopulate those spaces?” Rodgers 
said. “Or do you just give up and let the Old World bluestem take it?”He decided to fight back, first with a backpack herbicide sprayer and then with his own two hands.Over
 the past three years, he’s spent hundreds of hours pacing back and 
forth across his fields removing the remaining plants one at a time with
 a shovel and a bucket. He estimates he killed roughly one thousand Old 
World bluestems this way last year alone.“I know it's crazy,” Rodgers said. “A rancher can't do that...they’re too busy, there’s no way.”And
 even with all the time and effort he’s put into clearing the invasive 
grass from his property, Rodgers doesn’t expect to declare victory 
anytime soon.“Did I get them all? No,” he said. “That's the thing...you have to keep coming back and keep coming back and keep coming back.”That’s because if even a few plants remain, the species's aggressive 
growth capabilities could help it eventually take over again, if it’s 
left unchecked.In Keith Harmoney’s research plots in Hays, Old 
World bluestems have grown at a rate of 15% compounded each year. And 
the plant is similar enough to native grasses that it largely avoids 
being singled out by herbicides, although a couple of the weed killers 
Harmoney studies <a href="https://webapp.agron.ksu.edu/agr_social/eu_article.throck?article_id=643" target="_blank">show promise</a>.With the invasive grass already showing up in <a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20190626/kansas-considers-quarantine-to-slow-spread-of-invasive-bluestem-grass" target="_blank">just about every county</a> in the state, he said trying to slow down its spread may be the best case scenario for Kansas at this point.“Exponential growth,” Harmoney said, “is probably what we're going to be seeing in the near future.”The state has held at least one public hearing on potentially <a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20190626/kansas-considers-quarantine-to-slow-spread-of-invasive-bluestem-grass" target="_blank">quarantining</a>
 the plant. Harmoney said some Kansas counties have had discussions 
about designating it as a noxious weed, which would mean stricter 
regulations for limiting its spread, but none have taken action yet.And
 as the Old World bluestem invasion continues, it endangers a lot of the
 natural features that make Kansas what it is. Tallgrass, mixed grass 
and short grass prairies — and the wildlife habitats that depend on them
 — will all be at risk.“Long term, it has the potential to impact what we see,” he said, “and the beauty of (Kansas) as we know it.”David Condos covers western Kansas for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/davidcondos" target="_blank">@davidcondos</a>.