Kansas Canopy

The Kansas Forest Service is facing unprecedented challenges due to proposed federal budget cuts. This episode explores what’s at stake—not just for the agency, but for landowners, communities, and ecosystems across the state. From wildfire response to community tree planting, invasive pest control to water quality improvements, State, Private, and Tribal Forestry funding touches nearly every corner of Kansas. You’ll also hear firsthand accounts from partners and landowners—including voices from Shawnee County, KU Field Station, Blue Rapids, and the Kansas Forestry Association—who have seen the impact of KFS programs up close. Together, they paint a picture of what’s working, what’s at risk, and what can be done to help ensure these services remain available for the people and landscapes that depend on them.

In this episode, we are joined by K-State Mesonet meteorologist Chip Redmond to explore some of the most enduring weather-related wives' tales. From moon halos and woolly bear caterpillars to smoke patterns, animal fur, and even persimmon seeds, Chip breaks down which bits of weather lore hold up under science—and which are just poetic myths. Tune in to learn how to separate weather wisdom from weather whimsy! * https://mesonet.k-state.edu/ * https://www.weather.gov/ * https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/

In this episode, Dr. Cassandra Olds, veterinary entomologist at Kansas State University, shares insights from her publication Ticks in Kansas and explains why ticks are a growing concern in the state. Learn how to identify common ticks, prevent bites, and recognize early signs of tick-borne illness—especially important for those who work or spend time outdoors. Dr. Olds also offers practical tips and local resources to help Kansans stay safe and informed. * Ticks in Kansas Publication: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/item/ticks-in-kansas_MF2653 * KSRE Bookstore: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/ * K-State Department of Entomology: https://entomology.k-state.edu/

Join Kansas landowner Austin Floersch as we discuss his successes in cultivating a vibrant wildlife habitat in his northeast Kansas woodlands. Austin shares management successes, resources he has utilized, and hopes for the future of his property. Fuels Specialist Luke Berning also joins us in sharing how Austin's property can be an example of Kansas landowners working to maximize the use and enjoyment of their woodlands.

In this episode of the Kansas Canopy Podcast, guestRyan Armbrust, the Rural Forestry Program Coordinator, takes us on a captivating journey through Kansas’ surprising and often overlooked history of trees. From the fossilized hackberry leaves that date back millions of years to the stories of early settlers navigating the state's changing landscapes, Ryan uncovers the deep-rooted connection between trees and the history of the land. He reveals unexpected tales, like how Texas invaded Kansas in 1843 and how steamboats once relied on the Arkansas River. Whether you’re a longtime Kansan or new to the state, Ryan’s insights will leave you with a fresh perspective on how trees have shaped the evolution of Kansas. View photos mentioned in this episode: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjC3xP4 [https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjC3xP4] KU Biological Survey History of Trees in Kansas Full Program:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRARDYdkDow [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRARDYdkDow]   Kansas Historical Society: https://www.kansashistory.gov/ [https://www.kansashistory.gov/]