Join KU Field Station Manager Sheena Parsons, Northeast Rural District Forester EJ Jamison, and Northeast District Fire Management Officer Bryce Haverkamp to discuss the 2023 prescribed burn of Rice Woodlands, a tract of the Baldwin Woods Forest Preserve.

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The Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii) is a striking tree with a broad, oval form and stout, spreading branches that can reach heights of 60 to 80 feet in Kansas. Known for its deep-lobed, glossy dark green leaves that turn brilliant red-orange in fall, this oak thrives in rich, well-drained soils and is more tolerant of urban conditions than its close relative, the Northern Red Oak. Its acorns provide valuable mast for wildlife, making it a great addition to both ornamental landscapes and wildlife-friendly spaces.

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2025 Volunteer Fire Assistance Cost Share Grant Applications are live! The Kansas Forest Service administers the Volunteer Fire Assistance cost-share program with grant funding provided by the US Forest Service. The funding is available to rural or city departments that provide fire protection to rural areas with less than 10,000 people.

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Tree city USA REcognition Event

We hope all Tree City USA communities will join us in Lawrence as we celebrate our state's commitment to nurturing and preserving urban forests. This in-person event, March 13 and 14, is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow TCUSA communities and learn more about creating and sustaining strong urban canopies. This event is by invitation only, so reach out to your community forester if you did not receive an email invite!

Community Foresters

We have added several new faces to our agency in recent months including 

Accounting Manager Lisa Percival, Forest Health Coordinator Shad Hufnagel, GIS Analyst Chester Hubbard, Rural District Forester Jaryn Adamek, 

Volunteer and Partnership Liaison Brady Wolken, 

Workforce Development Specialist Christopher Hanson, Fire Prevention Specialist Shawna Hartman, and Agricultural Technician Daryline Dayzie. Join us in welcoming these new staff to our team!

Meet our STaff