March 8, 2016
Help keep the trails open on Konza Prairie
John Briggs, director of the Konza Prairie Biological Station, reminds the public to follow rules on the hiking trails at Konza Prairie. Rules are not being followed, which may result in closure of the trails. This would be a last resort so we are asking for help from everyone to help keep them open.
Konza Prairie Biological Station is primarily a research facility and is private land, so most of the site is off limits to the public. However, because we and the Nature Conservancy, the majority owner of the property, feel that it is important to provide a venue for the public to learn about the endangered tallgrass ecosystem, Konza Prairie Biological Station does have hiking trails available from dawn to dusk, weather and trail conditions permitting. Also, because the land is privately owned, there are rules for use of the hiking trails that are in place to protect the on-going research, preserve the landscape, wildlife and ecological value of the site.
Continued access to Konza Prairie depends on your cooperation by observing the following rules:
- Remain on designated roads and trails at all times. Please stay out of the water — all streams are restricted areas for research only.
- Dogs, horses and other pets are not permitted on site.
- Our trails are for hiking only. Bicycles, motorcycles, and any all-terrain vehicles are not permitted.
- Camping or overnight parking is prohibited.
- Collection or removal of flowers, rocks, feathers, or other materials from the area is prohibited.
- Smoking, or any open flame, is prohibited.
- Pack it in, pack it out. Disposal receptacles and picnic areas are not available on the trail.
- The trails and parking area are closed within one hour after sunset. Vehicles remaining after this time are subject to being towed at the vehicle owner's expense.
- This area is patrolled by K-State Police. Contact K-State Police at 785-532-6412 or use the Silent Witness website to report any suspicious behavior.
Find alternative trails where you can hike with your dog, or where you can ride your horse online. Many of these trails also are places where you can learn more about the tallgrass prairie.