Headlines

The term “sodbusting” is used to identify the conversion of land from native vegetation to commodity crop production after December 23, 1985.

Taylor Lambert has been named the recipient of the Key Bankers’ Award, in recognition of his commitment to sustainable farming practices and responsible land stewardship.

Wildlife, Agriculture, Conservation, Knowledge for Youth Day—better known as WACKY Day—was held Wednesday, September 24, at Camp Hansen in Kirwin. The annual event, organized by the Kansas Natural Resource Foundation (KNRF), brings together 6thgrade students from across northwest Kansas.

I have been the acting Supervisory District Conservationist (SDC) for the Hill City-Stockton-Osborne Management Unit since April 29, 2025. I have been the SDC in the Smith Center-Phillipsburg- Norton Management Unit since September 2018.

The Kansas Association of Conservation Districts (KACD) is offering two college scholarships this year, each worth up to $1,000 for the fall semester. The General Memorial Scholarship is available to full-time college juniors or seniors majoring in Agriculture or a Natural Resource-related field.

USDA recently announced a $700 million Regenerative Pilot Program to help American farmers adopt practices that improve soil health, enhance water quality, and boost long-term productivity, all while strengthening America’s food and fiber supply.

After 34 years of dedicated service, Brian decided to hang up his NRCS hat. Who would have thought that a small-town farm boy from Norton could fulfill his dream of working with farmers and ranchers across the entire State of Kansas throughout his career?

The Rooks County Commissioners approved the 2026 appointments as follows: Commission Chairman, Tim Berland; Appraiser, Rhonda Morgan; ADA Representative, Jake Prockish; NWKS Community Corrections, Tracy Rudman; RCED Representative, Jake Prockish; Emergency Manager, Adam Bryant; Noxious Weed...

On Tuesday, January 27th, Sacred Heart School helds its annual Spelling Bee. After six intense rounds of play, sixth-grade student Max Brewster emerged as the school campion speller by correctly spelling the winning word, 'fruit.'

Long ago, the Rooks County Historical Society increased the number of events offered for the general public. Visitors from near and far have enjoyed the Historical Society’s annual Cowboy Christmas Poetry Gatherings and the Haunted Museum.