Kansas NRCS Empowers Conservation Planning Part 2 Graduates for Enhanced Resource Management Statewide

MANHATTAN, KANSAS, June 2023 – Kansas Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) proudly announces the successful completion of Conservation Planning: Part 2, a comprehensive training program aimed at equipping participants with advanced skills in conservation planning.  The intensive six-day program, consisting of three days of classroom instruction followed by three days of hands-on fieldwork, consisted of 24 individuals from across the State.  With the guidance of experts, including the State Biologist, State Resource Conservationist, State Assistant Conservationist for Technology, and State Archeologist, among many others, participants gained valuable insight into conservation planning and effective communication with producers.

Hosted at the Kansas Department of Agriculture in Manhattan, the classroom instruction portion of Conservation Planning: Part 2 provided participants with a refresher on the intricacies of the conservation planning process.  The curriculum covered a wide range of topics, including soil erosion fundamentals, considerations for plants and animals, tillage practices, and resource inventories, to name a few. The classroom sessions offered engaging discussions, interactive exercises, and practical demonstrations to enhance participants' understanding of these critical subjects.

Following the formal instruction portion, participants embarked on three days of fieldwork, where they had the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.  Day one was dedicated to evaluating cropland, during which participants received hands-on training in soil sampling techniques, surveying, residue determination, and considerations for living species.  This comprehensive approach enabled participants to develop a holistic understanding of the factors influencing conservation planning outcomes in cropland environments.

Days two and three focused on rangeland and forest lands, respectively, emphasizing the unique considerations and challenges associated with each ecosystem.  Participants explored the differences between the three land types and gained practical experience in conservation planning techniques tailored to each specific context.  By evaluating diverse landscapes and engaging with experts in the field, participants developed a well-rounded perspective on the conservation planning process and its application across various environments.

An integral component of the Conservation Planning Part 2 class was effective communication with producers.  Recognizing the importance of collaborative partnerships, participants learned invaluable skills to better engage with producers, fostering mutual understanding and creating tailored conservation plans that meet producers' needs efficiently and effectively.  By emphasizing the significance of effective communication, the program aids in the promotion of sustainable resource management across the State.

The success of the Conservation Planning: Part 2 class is attributed to the dedication and expertise of the instructors, the generosity of the landowners who facilitated the fieldwork, and the invaluable support of the program's Partners.  The collaborative efforts of these individuals and organizations were essential in creating a rewarding and impactful learning experience for the participants.

Reflecting on the accomplishment of the class, Kristen Woods, Resource Conservationist and class facilitator from Kansas NRCS, expressed her satisfaction and gratitude.  "We are immensely proud of the participants and their commitment to advancing their skills in conservation planning," Kristen stated.  "The Conservation Planning Part 2 class not only provided them with valuable knowledge and practical experience, but also instilled in them a sense of stewardship for Kansas' natural resources.  We applaud their dedication and look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will make in their communities."

Kansas NRCS remains dedicated to promoting sustainable resource management practices and empowering individuals with the tools and expertise to safeguard the State's natural resources.  The Conservation Planning: Part 2 class stands as a testament to their ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and effective conservation planning.

For more information about Kansas NRCS and our initiatives in conservation planning, please visit Kansas | Natural Resources Conservation Service (usda.gov)

About Kansas Natural Resources Conservation Service:
Kansas Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a government agency committed to assisting farmers, ranchers, and landowners in conserving their natural resources through technical expertise, financial support, and conservation planning.  Kansas NRCS strives to enhance the productivity, sustainability, and long-term health of Kansas's natural resources while promoting thriving rural communities.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways.  Under the Biden-Harris administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean  energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America.  To learn more, visit usda.gov.  

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