Collaborating for Conservation

Kansans for Conservation: A Coalition on a Mission

For the better part of a century and around the world, The Nature Conservancy has prided itself on finding common ground with stakeholders of all types to advance conservation policies and outcomes. Coalitions can come in all shapes and sizes, from historic partners to new friends. Kansas is fortunate to have an incredibly diverse conservation coalition advocating for its natural heritage. With the moniker Kansans for Conservation (KFC), this group has exponentially increased the conservation awareness and knowledge of legislators in Topeka—as well as inspiring more than a few puns.

With 42 affiliated member organizations, the coalition is comprised of a staggering range of cross-industry partners. Captured within these members are ranchers, hikers, hunters, industry and just about every nature resource interest within Kansas. On the face, Kansans for Conservations is a group that would be unusual to see aligned on any other issue. Kansans for Conservation’s greatest strength is its ability to unite diverse organizations from across the state. Through its expansive representation across the geographies and demographics of Kansas, the coalition remains non-partisan and united in conservation. It resembles the everyday and generational conservation supporters who gather profit, pride and quality of life from the state’s natural resources. In short, it looks like Kansas.

The Nature Conservancy has been a member of Kansans for Conservation since its founding in 2017. In recent years, the coalition’s activities have picked up steam with bill introductions and hearings. The goal of the coalition is to establish dedicated state conservation funding that supports working lands, wildlife, outdoor recreation and education. This type of funding would fill a significant need across the state and ensure the state’s long-term viability.

While the coalition continues to work with legislators to refine and promote its proposal, volunteer advocates have a critical role to play. You can contribute to a historic investment in Kansas’s natural heritage by sharing information with your legislator on the coalition and its proposed solutions. Your support and perspective are incredibly impactful. Legislators listen closely to constituents and stories of how conservation occurs in their district.

For more information on the Kansans for Conservation coalition, visit the website.

You can also find your legislators.