photo by: Eva Horne/Konza Prairie Long-Term Ecological Research

Wildflowers bloom on a grassland near Manhattan, the Konza Prairie Biological Station. Some trees can be seen in the distance. Keeping trees and shrubs at bay is part of prairie conservation.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is asking for input from ranchers and landowners regarding how to keep grasslands in healthy condition.

According to a press release from the KDA, the department has been collaborating with the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, with support from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, on a joint initiative to identify immediate next steps that will encourage and assist Kansans in conserving their working grasslands.

The resulting report will provide information to help educate a broad audience on the importance of working grasslands, along with recommended actions to enhance and preserve them for future generations. The final report is expected to be presented to stakeholders, the public and legislators in early 2026.

Grasslands make up more than 15 million acres of agricultural land in Kansas, and they serve an important role as grazing land for cattle. As the state’s largest agricultural industry, the beef industry provides income to thousands of Kansas ranchers, businesses and workers throughout the state.

To fill out the survey and learn more about the Kansas Grasslands project, visit www.agriculture.ks.gov/grasslands. The survey will be open through Friday, Dec. 5.