Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 1
2 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Flint Hills

National Wildlife Refuge

Draft

Comprehensive Conservation Plan

and Environmental Assessment

June 2000

Prepared For:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

134 Union Blvd., Suite 350

Lakewood, Colorado 80228

Prepared by:

Research Management Consultants, Inc.

1746 Cole Blvd., Suite 300

Golden, Colorado 80401
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

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Table of Contents

Executive Summary ................................................................................. 5

Vision ............................................................................................................ 8

Introduction

Regional Setting.............................................................................................. 9

Refuge Purpose Statements .......................................................................... 10

Planning Perspectives and Considerations

Purpose of and Need for the Plan ................................................................ 13

Planning Process ............................................................................................ 14

Planning Perspectives .................................................................................... 15

Expected Planning Outcomes ....................................................................... 15

The Ecosystem Approach to Management ................................................. 16

The Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem ......................................................... 16

Refuge and Ecosystem Planning Issues and Opportunities ..................... 19

Ecosystem and Refuge Resource Description

Area of Ecological Concern ........................................................................... 23

Vegetation ........................................................................................................ 24

Wildlife ............................................................................................................ 27

Threatened and Endangered Species................................................... 27

Exotic Species ................................................................................................. 28

Climate ............................................................................................................ 28

Geology ............................................................................................................ 28

Soils ............................................................................................................ 28

Water Management ........................................................................................ 31

Cultural and Historic Resources Features .................................................. 32

Socio-economic Features................................................................................ 32

Public Use ........................................................................................................ 32

Refuge Staffing ............................................................................................... 32

Flint Hills NWR Management Program .......................................... 41

Biological Diversity, Land Protection, Wildlife,

and Habitat Protection ........................................................................... 42

Hydrological Restoration and Water Quality ............................................. 45

Public Use, Recreation, Wildlife Interpretation, and Education ............. 49

Cultural Resources ......................................................................................... 51

Interagency Coordination and Relations .................................................... 51

Improvement of Staffing, Funding, and Facilities...................................... 52

Legal, Policy, Administrative Guidelines, and Other Special Considerations

Legal Mandates............................................................................................... 53

Agency-Wide Policy Directions ..................................................................... 54

National Wildlife Refuge System: Mission and Goals ........................ 55

Refuge Purpose Statements .......................................................................... 57

Plan Implementation

Resource Projects ........................................................................................... 58

Proposed Funding and Personnel ................................................................. 60

Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................. 61

Step-Down Management Planning .............................................................. 62

Completed Plans and Other Documents .............................................. 62

Plans and Documents to be Developed in the Future ........................ 62

Wilderness Review .................................................................................. 63

Refuge Program Monitoring and Evaluation ............................................. 63

Monitoring and Evaluation of the CCP ....................................................... 63
4 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

References.................................................................................................... 64

List of Preparers ....................................................................................... 65

Glossary ........................................................................................................ 66

Abbreviations and Acronyms .............................................................. 69

Appendices

A. Plant List .................................................................................................. 70

B. Fish List.................................................................................................... 78

C. Amphibian and Reptile List ................................................................... 79

D. Wild Bird Species List ............................................................................ 80

E. Mammal List ............................................................................................ 83

F. Threatened and Endangered Species List .......................................... 84

G. Refuge Operating Needs System (RONS) .......................................... 85

H. Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem Plan ................................................. 94

I. Key Legislation and Policies .................................................................. 109

J. Cooperative Agreements ........................................................................ 111

K. Contaminant Assessment Process ........................................................ 127

L. Compatibility Determinations ............................................................... 131

M. Environmental Assessment ................................................................... 135

N. CCP Mailing List..................................................................................... 147
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 5

Executive Summary

The Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for the Flint Hills National

Wildlife Refuge (NWR) would serve as a management tool to be used by

the Refuge staff and its partners in the preservation and restoration of the

ecosystem’s natural resources. In that regard, the Plan will guide

management decisions over the next 15 years and set forth strategies for

achieving Refuge goals and objectives within that time frame. The

management actions presented within this document reflect the U.S. Fish

and Wildlife Service (Service’s) efforts to meet the goals of the Refuge

Improvement Act of 1997.

The goals listed below will guide Refuge management:

Goal 1: To restore, enhance, and protect the natural diversity on the Flint

Hills NWR including threatened and endangered species by

appropriate management of habitat and wildlife resources on

Refuge lands and by strengthening existing and establishing new

cooperative efforts with public and private stakeholders.

Goal 2: To restore and maintain a hydrological system for the Neosho

River drainage by managing for wetlands (Map #8), control of

exotic species, and management of trust responsibilities for the

maintenance of plant and animal communities.

Goal 3: Provide opportunities for wildlife-dependent public access and

recreational opportunities to include compatible forms of hunting,

fishing, wildlife observation, photography, interpretation, and

educational activities.

Goal 4: To protect, manage, and interpret cultural resources on the Flint

Hills NWR for the benefit of present and future generations.

Goal 5: To strengthen interagency and jurisdictional relationships in order

to coordinate efforts with respect to the Refuge and surrounding

area issues resulting in decisions benefitting fish and wildlife

resources while at the same time avoiding duplication of effort.

Goal 6: Improve staffing, funding, and facilities that would result in longterm enhancement of habitat and wildlife resources in the area of

ecological concern and support the achievement of the goals of this

Plan and the goals of the National Wildlife Refuge System

(System).
6 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Objectives with measurable outcomes would guide the Refuge staff in a

consistent direction toward the accomplishment of each goal beginning

with short-term activities or strategies to occur within five years followed

by implementation of long-term activities within 5 to 15 years. Completion

of the following objectives depends upon funding and staffing from year to

year:

1. Document existing flora and fauna of wetland, grassland, riparian,

savanna, and wooded habitats through baseline surveys and monitor

habitats affected by management activities.

2. Continue to protect populations of endangered and threatened species

and maintain or improve their habitats on Refuge lands.

3. Manage waterfowl in accordance with the North American Waterfowl

Management Plan focusing on target species including the mallard,

pintail, wood duck, and gadwall.

4. Monitor population status of priority species of neotropical migratory

birds, shorebirds, and other nongame migratory birds.

5. Determine population objectives of key resident wildlife species and

monitor the status of these species.

6. Restore and maintain native species on Refuge lands to reestablish

native habitat communities through appropriate land management

techniques and monitor reestablishment of native species as a result of

restoration efforts.

7. Reestablish native plants along the riparian areas of the Neosho River

and its tributaries to benefit native aquatic and riparian communities

of the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem and monitor reestablishment

of native species as a result of restoration efforts.

8. Encourage research with universities and other institutions that would

improve the biological database of the Refuge or contribute to habitat

restoration and management activities that are compatible with

Refuge goals and requirements of the Refuge Act. These activities

would be reviewed periodically by the Service and other

representatives to evaluate the effectiveness for Refuge needs.

9. Improve water management to maintain and enhance 4,500 acres of

current wetlands and restore another 600 acres of wetlands. Monitor

and document habitat components through annual biological surveys

of two to three key components (birds, vegetation, water quality,

invertebrates, and fish).

10. Develop and improve wildlife compatible recreational opportunities on

Refuge lands that further the public’s involvement and appreciation of

the System. Through the completion and implementation of the Public

Use Plan in tasks outlined in short-term and long-term phases, public

use would increase 15 percent over the next five years and by 50

percent by the year 2015.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 7

11. Develop and implement educational and interpretive programs to

increase the public’s understanding of the natural resources of the

Refuge and issues within the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

Develop educational or interpretive programs specific to the Flint Hills

NWR and initiate Refuge participation in national educational

programs. Host various special events to offer the public an

opportunity to participate in Refuge activities.

12. Initiate a variety of innovative outreach strategies to strengthen the

existing Refuge constituency and develop a broader base of public

support in east-central Kansas. Create and develop one outreach

product and/or publication to generate interest in the Refuge over the

next five years. Increase community presentations, community

involved habitat restoration projects, and Refuge staff representation

at public events.

13. Work with the community to develop an organization or avenue for

receipt of private funding to subsidize environmental education

programs, habitat restoration projects, or other community based

efforts benefitting wildlife habitats on Refuge lands by the year 2010.

14. Document, map, and monitor archaeological sites on current Refuge

lands and future acquisitions through a baseline archaeological survey

and monitor known sites for disturbance or deterioration. Incorporate

information about the archaeology of the area into one Refuge

educational or interpretive product or program by the year 2005.

15. Strengthen partnerships with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

(Corps) and other private stakeholders within the community, Kansas

Department of Wildlife and Parks, and other public agencies that are

mutually beneficial and would ultimately benefit the fish and wildlife

resources of the Refuge and surrounding lands.

16. Provide the personnel needed to accomplish the goals of this Plan

through the addition of specific staff specialists and programs that

encourage community volunteers.

17. Provide a safe, efficient, and productive work environment for Refuge

employees and a safe infrastructure for Refuge visitors.

The goals and objectives of this Plan are the management framework

providing direction and continuity in the Refuge programs over a shortterm period (five years) and long-term period (5 to 15 years.) Strategies

and management activities are suggested to progressively work toward

achieving the specific objectives and can, over time, be modified to reflect a

broader understanding or knowledge of an issue through research or

experience, staff management styles, or resource specialties and regional

funding priorities.
8 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Vision

Flint Hills NWR contains biologically significant habitats in the Neosho

watershed within Kansas. This unique unit of the System plays a crucial

role in the conservation of biodiversity and protects a significant number of

species which depend on these habitats. The Refuge straddles the Neosho

River and is important for terrestrial and aquatic species. During the past

decade, many research efforts have focused on the unique habitats of the

Refuge. Yet much remains to be learned at Flint Hills NWR and management

of the biological resources protected by the Refuge. The area is dominated by

complex resource management issues revolving around the flood control

function of John Redmond Reservoir. Activities associated with

agriculture, flood control, and public recreation have placed increasing

demands on the landscape and identified the need for more responsible

utilization of land and water resources that support the remaining native

ecosystem components.

Flint Hills NWR must continue to protect habitat for the diverse array of

native plants and animals that rely upon the resources of the Refuge for

survival. The foreseeable future is one of protection and enhancement of

the existing landscape and active research and management for a diversity

of native species at every trophic level within all environments on the

Refuge. With continually improving data gathering and analysis, better

decisions can be made regarding natural resource conservation thus

leading to the secure abundance and population recovery of rare and/or

state and federally listed endangered species.

The Service envisions cooperative working relationships with other

Federal and State agencies along with nongovernmental organizations

(NGO)’s and the interested public to accomplish its complex mission. These

progressive working relationships would result in the Refuge’s improving

role in protecting resources from negative impacts while still providing a

wide range of wildlife-dependent opportunities and activities. Flint Hills

NWR continues to contribute to the economic development and

enhancement of the quality of human life in the Neosho River Valley. As

local communities become more and more aware of this, the Refuge would

increasingly be promoted as a regional tourist destination. Such attention

must be channeled to focus on the mission and benefit of the System and

the promotion of an increased understanding and support for the Service’s

efforts to protect native plants and animals and their associated habitats.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 9

Introduction

This CCP provides a description of the desired future conditions and longrange guidance for achieving the primary purpose for which Flint Hills

NWR was established: to provide habitat for migratory birds and other

wildlife. The Flint Hills NWR is one Refuge in a system that now

encompasses over 92 million acres of public land and water and is the

world’s largest collection of land providing habitats for more than 5,000

species of birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and insects.

The mission of the System is to administer a national network of lands and

waters for the conservation, management, and where appropriate,

restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats

within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations

of Americans (National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1997).

Established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt, the System now

includes 516 refuges and 38 wetland management districts in all 50 states

and the U.S. territories. National wildlife refuges host a tremendous

variety of plants and animals supported by a variety of habitats from arctic

tundra and prairie grasslands to subtropical estuaries. Most national

wildlife refuges are strategically located along major bird migration

corridors. This ensures that waterfowl, raptors, and other migratory birds

have publicly owned resting and feeding stops on their annual migrations.

The Service is the principal Federal agency responsible for conserving,

protecting, and enhancing fish and wildlife and their habitats. The agency

has specific trustee responsibilities for migratory birds, threatened and

endangered species, anadromous fish, and certain marine mammals as well

as the land and waters administered by the Service for the protection of

these resources.

The following sections discuss the purpose of and need for the Flint Hills

NWR CCP, the planning process used, and the general background of the

Refuge. It also describes the geographic ecosystem the Refuge is located

within and the legal context of the planning project.

Regional Setting

The Flint Hills NWR lies in the broad, flat Neosho River Valley,

historically a native tallgrass prairie region of natural scenic beauty. The

Refuge is named for the gently rolling Flint Hills 30 miles to the west.

These fossil studded limestone hills were formed when seas washed across

the region 250 million years ago (Oblinger-Smith Corp., 1982).

The Refuge is readily accessible by turnpike and interstate highways, lying

just eight miles south of I-35 in eastern Kansas. Large cities such as

Wichita, Kansas City, and Topeka are within 100 miles of the Refuge.

Nearly 1.5 million people live within a 100 mile radius (Map #1). Other

refuges within the immediate area include the Marais des Cygnes NWR

(approximately 90 miles to the east on the Kansas-Missouri border) and

Quivira NWR (approximately 150 miles to the west in south-central

Kansas).
10 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Refuge Purpose Statements

Each national wildlife refuge was established for a particular purpose.

Formal establishment is usually based upon a statute or executive order

specifically enumerating the purpose of the particular unit. However,

refuges can also be established by the Service under the authorization

offered in such laws as the Endangered Species Act of 1973 or the Fish and

Wildlife Act of 1956. In these cases, lands are identified by the Service that

have the right elements to contribute to the recovery of a species or the

maintenance of habitat types. Oftentimes, the Service works in cooperation

with private nonprofit organizations in efforts to acquire suitable lands.

Flint Hills NWR was established in 1966 and “. . .shall be administered by

him (Secretary of the Interior) directly or in accordance with cooperative

agreements . . . and in accordance with such rules and regulations for the

conservation, maintenance, and management of wildlife, resources thereof,

and its habitat thereon, . . .” 16 U.S.C. § 644 (Fish and Wildlife Coordination

Act, 1958).

The Refuge Recreation Act (16 U.S.C. § 460-1) states that each refuge is:

“suitable for incidental fish and wildlife oriented recreational

development, the protection of natural resources, and the conservation

of endangered or threatened species.”
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 11
12 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 13

Planning Perspectives

and Considerations

Purpose of and Need for the Plan

The purpose of the CCP is to “provide long range guidance for the

management of national wildlife refuges.” As such, all lands of the System

are to be managed in accordance with an approved CCP that will guide

management decisions and set forth strategies for achieving refuge

purposes. The Refuge Improvement Act of 1997 requires all refuges to

have a CCP and provides the following legislative mandates to guide the

development of the CCP:

• Wildlife has first priority in the management of refuges.

• Recreation or other uses are allowed if they are compatible with

wildlife conservation.

• Wildlife-dependent recreation activities such as hunting, fishing,

wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education,

and interpretation will be emphasized.

This CCP provides management direction to present and future Refuge

Managers for the next 15 years. It describes all management activities that

occur on the Refuge and provides management goals, measurable

objectives, and management actions or strategies designed to enhance and

protect existing habitats and restore degraded habitats for the benefit of

wildlife including endangered species. The goals and objectives shall guide

management toward the Refuge vision or the ecologically desirable

outcome for Flint Hills NWR.
14 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Planning Process

This CCP establishes the goals, objectives, and management strategies for

Flint Hills NWR. A CCP is guided by the established purposes of each

refuge, the goals of the System, Service compatibility standards, and other

Service policies, legal mandates, and laws directly related to refuge

management. The Plan is in compliance with the requirements of the

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). It addresses the National

Wetlands Priority Conservation Plan, the North American Waterfowl

Management Plan, conservation initiatives such as the Partners-in-Flight

(PIF) Plan and private land initiatives, and the Service’s ecosystem

management plans.

The Plan is developed with specific activities to be implemented during a

short time frame. Activities proposed for implementation over a longer

term, 5 to 15 years, are sometimes stated broadly with the intent that a

detailed step-down plan be developed. Step-down plans for a particular

management program such as farming, public use, and prescribed fire

include budgets, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation criteria.

This CCP will direct the preparation or revision of step-down management

plans, affect performance standards for Refuge personnel, and justify

budget approval for specific programs over the next 15 years.

The CCP and step-down plans provide the Refuge Manager a rationale and

justification to guide management decisions affecting the Refuge’s natural

resources. The plans will be most useful if the Manager provides a detailed

record of management actions and outcomes. It is the intent of the

planning process that management actions developed in both the CCP and

step-down plans be documented, reviewed, and evaluated within a

reasonable time frame. To optimize the effectiveness of the plans,

amendments need to be incorporated based on management outcomes and

current Service policy.

Following the publication of a Notice of Intent in the Federal Register on

October 2, 1998, a fact sheet was prepared and sent to a mailing list of

citizens, interest groups, and agencies that have expressed interest in

Refuge programs and issues. An open house was held at the Flint Hills

NWR headquarters in Hartford, Kansas on November 5, 1998. In an

ongoing effort to involve the local community and officials in the CCP

process, the availability of the Draft CCP would be announced in the

Federal Register by the Service. The Draft CCP would be sent to a current

mailing list of citizens and interest groups and agencies previously

expressing an interest in Refuge programs and issues.

As part of the process of developing a Final CCP, public meetings would be

provided, if necessary, based on public response to this Draft CCP

document. Any comments received from the public will be reviewed and

considered throughout the CCP process. RMCI continually updates the

mailing list based on responses from interested parties. The public

comments will be included in the final document as an appendix.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 15

Planning Perspectives

This comprehensive planning effort would integrate three perspectives so

that the management direction over the next 15 years would produce

holistic management approaches for the Flint Hills NWR. The Plan

includes:

1. A broad perspective for overall environmental contextual issues

including endangered species, biological diversity, water issues,

inter-jurisdictional cooperation, socio-economic considerations, etc.

2. A focused perspective for the System related policy issues which

affect the Flint Hills NWR programs (compatibility, endangered

species management, water rights, etc.).

3. A local perspective for Refuge related activities and strategies

affecting management units (grasslands, endangered species,

research, etc.).

An understanding of these three perspectives and the relationship between

them lead to the formulation of an integral set of Refuge goals and

objectives for the next 15 years.

Expected Planning Outcomes

The planning effort should bring about the following outcomes which are

all objectives of comprehensive conservation planning:

1. Ensure that management of Flint Hills NWR lands reflect the

policies and goals of the System and the purposes for which the

Refuge was established.

2. Ensure that Flint Hills NWR contributes to the conservation of

biological diversity and to the structure and function of the

ecosystem in which it is located.

3. Provide a clear statement of desired future conditions for Flint

Hills NWR as it should be when the System and individual unit

purposes are accomplished.

4. Provide a systematic process to aid decision making by identifying

opportunities, issues, and concerns; collecting, organizing, and

analyzing information; and developing and considering a range of

management alternatives.

5. Provide a forum for determining the compatibility of uses on Flint

Hills NWR.

6. Ensure Service programs, other agencies, and the public have

opportunities to participate in management decision making for

Flint Hills NWR.

7. Provide a uniform basis for budget requests for operational,

maintenance, and capital development programs that accomplish

Flint Hills NWR and system purposes.

8. Provide a basis for monitoring progress and evaluating Plan

implementation on Flint Hills NWR.

9. Identify objectives and management strategies for Flint Hills

NWR leading to their achievement.

10. Provide long-term continuity in the management of Flint Hills

NWR.
16 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

The Ecosystem Approach to Management

The Service has adopted an ecosystem approach to more effectively achieve

its mission of fish and wildlife conservation for future generations. The

ecosystem approach is defined as protecting or restoring the natural

function, structure, and species composition of an ecosystem while

recognizing that all components are interrelated.

Ecosystem management includes preservation of the natural biological diversity,

ecosystem health, and sustainable levels of economic and recreational activity. This

approach emphasizes the identification of goals that represent resource priorities

on which all parts of the Service will collectively focus their efforts. These cross

program partnerships within the Service and partnerships with outside entities

assist in the identification of common resource goals and contribute to the

accomplishment of those goals in an effective and timely manner.

The Service has defined 52 ecosystems within the United States, based primarily

on watershed designations. In order to implement the ecosystem approach, the

Service has established ecosystem teams consisting of members representing the

various field stations and programs within the Service in any given area. The

Refuge plays an integral role in the coordination of, and is an active participant

in, projects identified by the ecosystem team as priority projects in order to

accomplish the overall goals of the team. Management decisions incorporate

pertinent biological and socio-economic parameters within the ecosystem

(Map #2).

The Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem

Flint Hills NWR is part of the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem. This ecosystem

contains approximately 245,000 square miles and extends from the Rocky

Mountains to the bayous of Louisiana and contains all of Oklahoma and

parts of seven other states. Flint Hills NWR is located in the north-central

portion of this ecoregion. Threats to important fish and wildlife resources

in this system include construction and operation of stream impoundments,

improperly conducted livestock grazing, and further fragmentation of the

prairie ecosystem. Opportunities exist to improve grazing regimes and

work with Federal, State, and local agencies, as well as private organizations, to

gain information and to better manage the declining resources in the Flint

Hills NWR ecoregion. The Refuge plays an integral role in the participation and

coordination of various projects identified by the ecosystem team as

priority projects in order to accomplish the overall goal of the team.

Based upon a broad set of issues identifiable throughout the entire defined

Ecosystem, the Service has developed a management goal and a set of sub-goals.

The Ecosystem goal is “To protect, restore, and maintain viable levels of biotic

diversity within the Arkansas Red/Rivers Ecosystem.” Sub-goals of the plan

include: P Recovering federal and state listed threatened and endangered species and

their habitats and ensuring that species not currently listed are managed to

avoid a future need to list them under the Endangered Species Act.

P Maintaining migratory bird populations at healthy levels. P Reversing declining trends in quality and quantity of riparian/wetland

habitats.

P Restoring, maintaining, and enhancing the species composition, aerial

extent, and spatial distribution or riparian/wetland habitats.

P Protecting, restoring, and maintaining native fish and aquatic communities

and to promote sport fisheries management where native fish and other

aquatic organisms are not adversely affected.

P Protecting, maintaining, and restoring upland terrestrial communities

at the landscape level.

P Interpreting the link between healthy, stable ecosystems and human/

community health.

P Protecting and enhancing water quality and quantity for aquatic,

wetland, and riparian habitat.

To view the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem Plan, please refer to Appendix H.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 17
18 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 19

Refuge and Ecosystem Planning Issues and Opportunities

The following is a list of the major issues that confront the Flint Hills

NWR programs. An issue is an area of concern or an opportunity identified

through the planning process that requires more intensive management

efforts or decisions to change the Services’s approach to future

management planning. Examples include Service initiatives, opportunities,

management problems, threats to the resources, conflicts in uses, public

concerns, and undesirable resource conditions. Issues are identified by

input and feedback from sources within the Service, a variety of other

government agencies, NGO’s, and the public.

The issues identified in the planning process present various challenges for

the Service and the Refuge staff. However, the process of resolving these

issues provides several opportunities that further the mission of the Refuge

and benefit the natural resources of the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

The issues with associated challenges and opportunities are identified

below:

Issue 1. Habitat Management

The restoration and maintenance of native habitats on the Refuge is

essential for effective wildlife management. Historic records, databases,

and other information can be utilized to determine the natural conditions

and processes that should be restored on the Refuge. This baseline

assessment is essential for determining what habitat restoration actions

should be conducted and as a method for gauging the success of habitat

restoration and maintenance activities. Restoration may involve strategies

such as prescribed burning, exotic species control, or hydrological

restoration and maintenance. The intermittent flood hydrology of the

Neosho River Basin above the John Redman Reservoir poses serious

problems for all management activities on the Refuge. At high pool level,

95 percent of the Refuge may be flooded for extended periods of time.

These flood events can result in damage to facilities, nature trails, roads,

embankments, and water control structures. Flood events can also result in

the extermination of desired vegetation types and add to the introduction

of exotic species.

Challenge: Restoration and management efforts must take into account

and prepare for the effects of flooding on the Refuge. Many conventional

management and restoration techniques are not tolerant of the flooding

conditions likely to be encountered. Techniques used in habitat

management for the Refuge must be flood tolerant. Management efforts

would rely more on the harnessing of natural processes and may therefore

take longer to accomplish. Implementation of various land management

practices include assisting area landowners to modify farming practices to

reduce erosion and sedimentation and improve water quality.

Opportunity: Due to the seasonal abundance of water, increased ability

exists to restore wetlands and conduct moist soils management for the

benefit of wildlife.
20 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Issue 2. Public Use, Environmental Education, and Public Outreach

The Refuge has had a history of recreational public use and access for

wildlife-dependent recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, and

wildlife viewing. Increasing the quality of wildlife-dependent activities, as

well as allowing for increased public use, is a major challenge, especially

when considering the damage and disruptions caused by periodic flooding.

Challenge: Construction and maintenance of flood tolerant nature trails,

viewing blinds, and other essential structures would require long-term

commitment, effort, and a flexible approach.

Opportunity: Increasing environmental education, as well as public

outreach, would be possible by utilizing the expanded visitor center and

increased educational activities on and off the Refuge. Activities such as

hiking, environmental interpretation, wildlife photography, and wildlife

viewing could occur at increased levels on the Refuge. Compatibility

determinations and documentation to determine appropriate locations and

levels of public use activities would need to be continued.

The acquisition of an Outdoor Recreation Planner (ORP) position for the

Refuge is seen as vital to the success of the environmental education and

public outreach program.

Issue 3. Cultural Resources Management

Flint Hills NWR has been inventoried systematically for archaeological

sites. One of the sites identified is of national significance. Continued

coordination with the appropriate State agencies is needed to ensure the

protection of significant sites. Educational outreach and appropriate law

enforcement are two possible strategies to improve cultural resources

protection.

Challenge: Develop additional strategies and methods for protecting and

preserving identified sites.

Opportunity: Provide interpretive information regarding cultural

resources for the public in the form of pamphlets or the incorporation of

interpretive information kiosks into current and future public access trails

and areas.

Issue 4. Interagency Coordination

Coordination with other agencies and institutions is essential for

accomplishing Refuge goals and to ensure success of the management

program. Proposed permanent increases in the John Redmond Reservoir

pool elevations would cause inundation of some current public use facilities.

Close coordination and negotiation with the Corps and other agencies

would be needed to mitigate these impacts.

Challenge: To coordinate reservoir level manipulation in times of drought

or increased rain events to benefit fish and wildlife resources. Proposed

permanent increases in John Redmond Reservoir pool elevations may need

to be mitigated.

Opportunity: Continued close cooperation with the Corps would allow for

the continued manipulation of reservoir levels for the benefit of wildlife.

Examples are the drawdown of the reservoir to allow for shorebird habitat

and vegetation growth that would provide waterfowl forage when the

reservoir is full.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 21

Issue 5. Staffing and Funding

Currently, the Refuge staff consists of eight permanent full-time

employees. Additional staff is needed to ensure the accomplishment of the

management plan goals. Acquisition of funding for proposed actions is one

limiting factor in the accomplishment of Refuge goals.

Challenge: Acquiring funds to support proposed staffing increases.

Opportunity: The hiring of an ORP, biologist, biological science technician,

and maintenance worker are seen as needs to accomplish the goals of this

Plan.

Issue 6. Threatened and Endangered Species

Four threatened or endangered species are known to occur on the Refuge

or within the Neosho River drainage. These species are the bald eagle,

peregrine falcon, Neosho madtom fish, and the flat-floater mussel.

Challenge: Maintaining Refuge habitat, particularly in and along the

Neosho River, free from disturbance or impact that allows the continued

presence of healthy populations of these species.

Issue 7. Farming

Farming practices on national wildlife refuges is a controversial practice.

When the Refuge was established, approximately 14,000 acres were

farmed. Since that time, the acreage has been reduced to approximately

4,000 acres. Currently, farming on the Refuge is used as a management

tool for wildlife and to further accomplish Refuge objectives. Farmed acres

will continue to be reduced as needed to accomplish management

objectives.

Challenge: Farmed acres would be continually reduced as croplands are

retired. These acres would be managed as wildlife habitat, i.e., wetlands,

buffer strips, moist soil units, etc.

Opportunity: Farming would be used as a management tool to produce

forage for wildlife and reduce depredation on neighboring lands.
22 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Issue 8. Land Acquisition

With the pending closure of the Kansas Army Ammunition Plant (KAAP)

near Parsons, Kansas, the Service proposes to assume management of

approximately 1,525 acres of native grassland and riparian habitat as a fee

title transfer from the U.S. Army. In March of 1998, the Service sent a

Letter of Interest to the General Services Administration (GSA) sighting

the Service’s interest in lands bordering Labette Creek and the main gate

to the plant under Public Law 80-537. The Service intends on accepting

land at which time it will become a unit of the System and be administered

by the Flint Hills NWR in fee through a no-cost transfer from the U.S.

Army.

The KAAP is located in extreme southeastern Kansas in north-central

Labette County. The site is approximately three miles southeast of

downtown Parsons, Kansas. The military installation is government-owned

and contractor operated. The 1,525-acre proposed fee title transfer would

include approximately 515 acres of native bluestem prairie grassland and

1,008 acres of mixed hardwood riparian forest. The habitat on the KAAP is

situated on level to slightly rolling uplands between the Neosho River and

Labette Creek. In addition to these perennial drainages, numerous

unnamed, intermittent creeks drain the site primarily to the southwest and

southeast. A slight north-south ridge bisects the installation and divides

the two drainages. Elevations generally range from 850 to 900 feet above

mean sea level (MSL).

Challenge: Detailed information has not been compiled concerning landuse changes in Labette County since the 1850’s; however, the natural

vegetation clearly has undergone dramatic changes. Conversion of large

areas of native tallgrass prairie probably occurred before the turn of the

century, and many formerly timbered areas probably have been cleared or

selectively cut. In addition, suppression of wildfires that formerly kept

woody vegetation in check has resulted in the establishment of tracts of

forest and woodlands in upland areas that formerly were dominated by

grassland vegetation.

Opportunity: With the KAAP closure and excess land, the Service is

provided with a timely and unique opportunity to protect habitat of the

southeastern prairie and floodplain forests within the Arkansas River

watershed in southeastern Kansas. In 1974, the vegetation in the vicinity of

the KAAP was mapped as predominantly bluestem prairie, with cross

timber forests along portions of Labette Creek. In addition, broad

floodplains along Labette Creek and the Neosho River supported a variety

of wetland vegetation. Historically, and as they exist now on the KAAP,

upland sites were dominated by tall and medium grasses and supported a

rich variety of herbaceous plants. Woody species were scattered or absent.

Broadleaf deciduous forest dominated by oaks and hickories occupied the

slopes of creek and river valleys, occasionally extending onto the uplands.

Floodplains comprised a mix of floodplain forests, low prairies, and

freshwater marshes.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 23

Ecosystem and Refuge

Resource Description

The Flint Hills NWR lies in the broad, flat Neosho River Valley in eastcentral Kansas neighboring the native tallgrass prairie region of natural

scenic beauty (Map #3). The Refuge is named for the gently rolling Flint

Hills 30 miles to the west.

Flint Hills NWR, established in 1966, currently consists of 18,463 acres located at

the upstream end of the John Redmond Reservoir. The land is owned by the

Corps and is managed under a cooperative agreement. Refuge habitat

consists of 4,572 acres of wetlands, 1,400 acres of open water, 599 acres of

riparian wetlands on the Neosho River and associated creeks, 3,917 acres of

croplands, 3,200 acres of grasslands, 2,400 acres of woodlands, 2,255 acres of

brushlands, and 120 acres of administrative and recreational roadways.

The Refuge is managed primarily to benefit migrating and wintering

waterfowl in the Central Flyway. Thousands of ducks and geese utilize the

area during the spring and fall migrations and many winter on the Refuge.

A variety of management practices are utilized on the Refuge to meet the

needs of all wildlife, such as neotropical migrants, shorebirds, and native

plant communities. Feeding and resting areas for migratory birds are

provided through aggressive moist soil and cropland management programs.

In addition, farming practices and prescribed burning are used to provide

food and cover for waterfowl and resident species as well. Along with large

numbers of migrating birds, the Refuge is also a haven for white-tailed

deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail, and an assortment of other mammals,

birds, reptiles, and insects.

In addition to the lands managed by Flint Hills NWR, the Corps has

licensed the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to manage 1,472

acres adjacent to the Refuge. This land is known as the Otter Creek Game

Management Area and is managed primarily for bobwhite quail, mourning

dove, wild turkey, cottontail rabbit, squirrel, and white-tailed deer.

The 3.05 billion dollar Wolf Creek Nuclear Power Plant, located eight miles

east of the Refuge, was commissioned for operation on September 3, 1985.

The nuclear power plant has a cooling reservoir of 5,500 acres (Coffey

County Lake) which has open water all year long. Wolf Creek has contracted

with the Kansas Water Office for the majority of the storage capacity of

John Redmond Reservoir. To transfer this water from John Redmond to

Wolf Creek, two 36 inch pumps and pipelines are located below the base of

the John Redmond Dam. Coffey County Lake is open to fishing but closed

to hunting and is used extensively by waterfowl (USFWS, 1997).

Area of Ecological Concern

Flint Hills NWR encompasses more than 18,000 acres in the floodplain of

the Neosho River near the town of Hartford, Kansas (Map #3). With an

average elevation of 1,050 feet above MSL, the Refuge straddles the

Neosho River at the upper end of the John Redmond Reservoir in Lyon

and Coffey Counties and the majority of the Refuge is in the flood pool of

the Reservoir. Most of the surrounding land is characterized by gently

rolling prairies now primarily agricultural land. The hydrology of the

Neosho River and the John Redmond Reservoir profoundly effects

management practices and most of the Refuge land uses. In addition, the

land management practices conducted by the Refuge have an effect on the

hydrology and natural resources within the Neosho River watershed. The

broader area of ecological concern is the Neosho River basin. The Refuge

was established under a cooperative management agreement with the

Corps to provide habitat for migratory waterfowl in the Central Flyway.

The major management objective for Flint Hills NWR focuses on

protecting the unique Refuge habitats essential for the survival of the

diverse species that utilize the Refuge.
24 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Vegetation

Refuge habitat consists of approximately 4,572 acres of wetlands, 1,400

acres of open water, 599 acres of riparian wetlands on the Neosho River

and associated creeks, 3,917 acres of croplands, 3,200 acres of grasslands,

2,400 acres of woodlands, 2,255 acres of brushlands, and 120 acres of

administrative and recreational roadways.

The Refuge provides habitat for a myriad of plant species. A summary of

the more common species is contained in the table below:

(Oblinger-Smith Corp., 1982, USFWS, 1997)

For a complete list of plants found on the Refuge, please refer to Appendix A.

Traditionally, retired farm fields were targeted for native grass restoration.

Several restoration sites were destroyed due to flood events since 1993.

Only a few protected areas located on higher elevated sites would now be

considered for native prairie restoration. Johnson grass and Sericea

Lespedeza, both considered noxious weeds, have been difficult to control.

Chemical application within a floodplain is a concern and, therefore, other

methods of control are being explored, i.e., mechanical and biological

control.

Vegetation of Flint Hills NWR

A e cres H s abitat Typ Common Specie

4 s ,572 W , etland smartweed, common millet/barnyard grass

buttonbush, willow, sedge, cocklebur, and

foxtail grass

5 n 99 R , iparia cottonwood, ash, sycamore, hackberry, locust

walnut, elm, and silver maple as well as

bittersweet, greenbrier, dogwood, American

plum, gooseberry, buckbrush, moonseed,

dock, ragweed, nettle, and violets

3 s ,200 G , rassland big bluestem, little bluestem, Indian grass

switch grass, prairie cord grass, rice cutgrass,

dropseed, and foxtail

2 s ,255 B n rushland buckbrush, greenbrier, dogwood, America

plum, and wild grape

2 s ,400 W r oodland cottonwood, willow, ash, pecan, red oak, bu

oak, silver maple, redbud, Osage orange,

mulberry, American elm, Chinese elm, walnut,

hackberry, and sycamore

3 s ,917 C d ropland corn, milo, soybean, winter wheat, alfalfa, an

sunflowers
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 25
26 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 27

Wildlife

Flint Hills NWR offers a diverse assortment of wildlife species. The

various habitats present on the Refuge support a variety of species of

mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Mammals common to the

Refuge are white-tailed deer, coyote, beaver, opossum, raccoon, bobcat,

cottontail rabbit, fox squirrel, and other small mammals. River otters have

also been reported on the Refuge since their reintroduction several years

ago on the Cottonwood River upstream of the Neosho River (reference

used to verify mammal scientific names, Burt and Grossenheider 1976).

Bird species commonly seen on the Refuge include an abundance of waterfowl

such as Canada goose, snow goose, white-fronted goose, mallard, northern pintail,

and blue-winged teal. Marsh and water birds on the Refuge include American

white pelican, great (common) egret, snowy egret, great blue heron, little blue

heron, green-backed heron, American bittern, least bittern, double-crested

cormorant, and pied-billed grebe. Shorebirds, gulls, and terns seen on the Refuge

include greater yellowlegs, dowitchers, ring-billed gull, Franklin’s gull, and

Forester’s tern. Raptors include red-tailed hawk, northern harrier, Swainson’s

hawk, Cooper’s hawk, great horned owl and sharp-shinned hawk. Other common

birds are bobwhite quail, wild turkey, and eastern bluebird (references used to

verify bird scientific names included DeGraaf, and Rappole 1995; Ehrlich et al.

1988; National Geographic Society, 1987; and Peterson, 1961).

Fish found on the Refuge include carp, channel catfish, white bass, crappie,

and flathead catfish. It should be noted that the collection of wildlife

inventory data is still ongoing and new species are found periodically. For

an inventory of wildlife species, see Appendices B through E.

Waterfowl management has been the primary focus of many management

strategies over the years. While the wildlife management perspective has

broadened, waterfowl continues to be a major focus and the numbers of

waterfowl give an indication of the intrinsic value of the Refuge. The table

below includes the waterfowl counts from 1993 to 1997 and gives an

indication of the vast numbers of birds that utilize the Refuge.

(USFWS, 1997).

Threatened and Endangered Species

Two federally listed endangered birds are known to occur on the Refuge, the bald

eagle and the peregrine falcon. Peregrine falcons are observed passing through

the area during spring and fall migrations. Bald eagles generally arrive in the late

fall and spend the winter around the John Redmond Reservoir and surrounding

areas. Eagle use on the Refuge is monitored from October through March and

nesting attempts have been documented (USFWS, 1997).

In addition to the above mentioned species, the Neosho madtom is federally

listed threatened and the flat-floater mussel is listed as state endangered

and are known to occur within the Neosho River drainage and within the

Refuge boundary. For a complete listing of threatened and endangered

species, please refer to Appendix F. Waterfowl C

ounts1993-1997

Y a ear Canad GeeseSnow

Geese

White-fronted

Geese

Ducks

1 0 997 1 5 ,40 2 0 1,30 2 5 ,80 33,53

1 1 996 2 0 ,56 2 5 0,00 1 0 ,21 39,57

1 0 995 3 0 ,00 9 0 ,10 4 0 ,00 48,75

1 0 994 3 0 ,10 2 0 0,00 1 0 ,90 44,55

1 0 993 2 0 ,50 3 0 1,00 6 0 5 16,40
28 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Exotic Species

The most prevalent problems on the Refuge are the State and county listed

noxious weeds, Johnson grass and Sericea Lespedeza. The Refuge is

mandated by State and county law to control the two species. Control

efforts usually consist of mowing and farming. Because the Refuge lies in a

floodplain, the use of pesticides and herbicides is restricted. An integrated

pest management approach is taken utilizing farm management practices,

prescribed burning, and chemical application. Biological controls are being

investigated.

Another exotic species invasion which may become a problem in the future

is the zebra mussel which causes numerous filter clogging problems as well

as out-competing native species for food and habitat.

Climate

The climate of Flint Hills NWR and the surrounding region is typical of

the temperate continental climate. The average annual precipitation is

36.01 inches and temperatures range from below zero to above 100o F. The

frost free season averages 188 days a year.

Precipitation is usually heaviest in late spring and early summer. Normally

75 percent of the precipitation occurs during the growing season. Annual

snowfall averages about 14 inches with an average of 30 days with more

than a trace of snowfall. Winds in the area are predominately from the

south (USFWS, 1997).

Geology

The Refuge lies in a physiographic region known as the Osage Cuestas

(Oblinger-Smith Corp., 1982). The land forms in this area are of

Pennsylvanian age shales, limestone, sandstone, chert, and conglomerates

that were deposited in this area approximately 300 million years ago when

Kansas was covered by swamps and shallow seas. The Shawnee group of

the Virgilian series is the specific formation that the majority of the Refuge

lies on. To the west of the Refuge in the Flint Hills region, the formations

are of the Permian period, deposited approximately 250 million years ago.

Portions of the sediments deposited in the alluvium along the Neosho River

are eroded from this Permian formation (Oblinger-Smith Corp., 1982).

Soils

Soils on the Refuge are predominately productive Class I, II, III, and IV

soils of silty loam and silty clay loam (Map #4). While 27 different soil

types exist on the Refuge, the majority of the soils fall into the Class II

rating and are suited for cultivation, pasture, woodlands, or wildlife

(Oblinger-Smith Corp., 1982).
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 29
30 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 31

W e ater Unit Certificat

No.

Diversion

Type

Acrefeet

Bench Marsh Unit

Bench

Lower Bench

West Bench

38,287

39,580

Permit 42,848

Natural Flow

Natural Flow

Natural Flow

500

125

156

Beschka Marsh 38,280

38,282

Pump

Natural Flow

73

150

Boes Marsh 2 w 1,939 N 0 atural Flo 6

Burgess Marsh 38,278

38,279

Pump

Natural Flow

206

300

Coon Hamman -

Indian Hills Unit

Coon Hamman --

7 Pools Combined

Indian Hills --

17,606

38,274

17,601

38,275

Pump

Natural Flow

Pump

Natural Flow

19

80

205

330

Goose Bend Marsh 17,609

38,276

Pump

Natural Flow

172

200

Hammerton Marsh 38,286

38,285

Pump

Natural Flow

90

180

Hartford Unit

Hartford/Maxwell (Pools 2&3)

Hartford (Pools 1&2)

Maxwell MSU (Pool 3)

39,581

38,283

39,115

Pump

Natural Flow

Natural Flow

476

300

270

Lairds Pond 1 w 3,712 N 0 atural Flo 7

Monypeny Pond 5 w ,336 N 6 atural Flo

Palin Slough 38,273

38,271

Pump

Natural Flow

25

25

Pintail Marsh 2 w 1,938 N 0 atural Flo 11

Rummel Marsh 38,284

38,277

Pump

Natural Flow

100

100

Strawn Flats 3 w 8,281 N 0 atural Flo 11

Troublesome Unit

Troublesome East

Troublesome

39,582

5,339

Pump

Natural Flow

106

30

Water Management

Flint Hills NWR is located within

the Neosho River and Eagle Creek

flood pool of the John Redmond

Reservoir which was constructed

by the Corps as a flood control

project. When the reservoir is at

normal conservation pool, very

little Refuge land is inundated.

Water management on the Refuge

is dependent on the relative

abundance of water available.

During abundant water periods, as

much as 95 percent of the Refuge

may be inundated by flooding from

the rising pool level of John

Redmond Reservoir. Floods of this

severity are not uncommon (1973,

1985, 1986, 1993, 1995 and 1998).

Most precipitation is received

during the spring and some degree

of flooding can be expected, while

fall flooding of the Reservoir is

less common. During drought

periods, or other periods of low

precipitation, pumping may be

necessary to sustain wetlands and

maintain wildlife habitat (USFWS,

1997).

Flint Hills NWR has two types of

water rights. The Certificates of

Appropriation allow for either

pumping or natural flow diversion

for recreational purposes which

includes fish and wildlife. Eighteen

Certificates are approved for the

diversion of water from the natural

flows of the Neosho River and its

tributaries by low profile dikes.

Ten additional Certificates cover

the pumping of water from the

Neosho River and its tributaries

into constructed and natural

wetlands (Map #5). One approved

Permit remains for natural flows

that has not yet been certified.

Approved Certificates of

Appropriation, their type, and

acre-feet authorized are listed in

the following Table.

Water Rights - Flint Hills NWR -

All Recreational Use (to include

fish and wildlife.)
32 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Cultural and Historic Resources Features

Archaeological survey investigations conducted on the Flint Hills NWR have

identified numerous archaeological sites. The majority of these sites

represent Middle Ceramic occupation presumed to date from 1,000 to

1,500 A.D. According to Thies (1981), the archaeological sites thus far

discovered represent occupations ranging from the Paleo-Indian era up to

and including the Historic era, or from approximately 12,000 B.C. to the

earliest days of Euro-American settlement. Thies goes on to say it is probable

that more sites exist in the areas which could not be adequately investigated

during the 1979 and earlier surveys. One archaeological site of note, the

Williamson Site, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Human remains have been discovered at that site. A number of the identified

sites have been recommended for preservation and further study (Thies

1981). Coordination with the appropriate authorities would be required should

any construction activities take place in the vicinity of the identified sites.

Socio-economic Features

The Refuge is located in Lyon and Coffey Counties. The combined population of

these counties, according to 1997 estimates, is 42,826. The population of Hartford is

approximately 550. The socio-economic impacts of the Refuge on Lyon and

Coffey Counties consists primarily of permitted public use, contributions of

the staff, and supplies purchased within the counties for the Refuge.

In 1997, 53,565 visits were recorded at the Refuge. While many of the visits

may be local or repeat visitors, the visitation rate represents considerable

economic benefit to Lyon and Coffey Counties.

Lyon and Coffey Counties have significant agricultural resources. The

percentage of land in farms for both counties average about 88 percent in

1992 and the combined farm acres for both counties was 839,027. In 1996 in

both counties, an estimated 1,829 people were employed on farms as well

as 285 agricultural service employees out of a combined total civilian labor

force of 23,065. Approximately 9 percent of the labor force for the

combined counties is involved in agriculture or agricultural services

(IPPBR 1999). Cooperative farming agreements have resulted in the

annual cultivation of almost 4,000 acres of Refuge land (Map #6).

Public Use

Public use activities currently permitted at the Refuge include wildlife

observation, hiking, photography, sight-seeing, boating, picnicking,

camping, fishing, wild food gathering, and hunting (Map #7a and 7b). Fish

bait collecting is allowed for personal use only and firewood cutting is also

allowed with a special permit from the Refuge Manger. All State and

Federal regulations are in effect on the Refuge (USFWS, 1997).

Refuge Staffing

Current Refuge staff consists of the following 12 positions, 10 of which are

full-time positions:

Refuge Manager GS-14

Supervisor Refuge Operations Specialist GS-12/13

Fish and Wildlife Biologist (Private Lands) GS-7/9/11

Wildlife Biologist GS-9/11

Administrative Support Assistant GS-7

Bio-Science Tech GS-8

Biological Aid GS-3

Maintenance Mechanic WG-9

Engineering Equipment Operator WG-10

Fire Management Officer GS-7/9

Range Technician GS-4

Range Technician GS-5

For a proposed full level staffing chart, please refer to Proposed Funding

and Personnel section.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 33
34 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
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36 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 37
38 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 39
40 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 41

Flint Hills NWR

Management Program

Flint Hills NWR was established to provide habitat for migratory birds,

and in so doing, serves as an inviolate sanctuary providing habitats for

many other species of wildlife and plants. This purpose is fundamental in

determining the Refuge mission. Both the purpose and mission are the

foundation of Refuge management, the direction of which is guided by

general goals with specific objectives. The protection of natural resources

and the conservation of endangered or threatened species is the first

priority in Refuge management; public uses are secondary as long as the

activities are compatible with wildlife conservation. As appropriate,

opportunities for the development of wildlife-oriented recreational

development are considered. Specific projects or strategies within each

objective are identified as a means of attaining the Refuge vision.

Guide for present and future management direction

The objectives and strategies presented are the Service’s response to the

issues and concerns expressed by the planning team and the public. These

objectives and strategies reflect the Service’s commitment to achieve the

mandates of the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of

1997, the mission of the System, The Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem

Plan, the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, and the purpose,

vision, and goals for Flint Hills NWR.

Objectives with measurable outcomes will guide the Refuge staff in a

consistent direction toward the accomplishment of each goal beginning

with short-term objectives and strategies to occur within five years

followed by implementation of long-term strategies within 5 to 15 years.

The time frame for implementing objectives may vary depending on

funding, staff support, and Service directives. Due to the fact that the Flint

Hills NWR CCP is a working document, modifications to the following

objectives and strategies are anticipated. Where applicable, the Refuge

Operating Needs System (RONS) project has been included with the

associated strategy. For a complete listing of RONS projects, please refer

to Appendix G.
42 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Biological Diversity, Land Protection, Wildlife,

and Habitat Protection

Goal 1: To restore, enhance, and protect the natural diversity on the Flint

Hills NWR including threatened and endangered species by

appropriate management of habitat and wildlife resources on

Refuge lands and by strengthening existing and establishing new

cooperative efforts with public and private stakeholders.

Objective 1: Restore and maintain native grassland and riparian

communities within the Refuge to meet the needs of native flora and fauna.

Rationale for Objective: Native tallgrass prairies have been reduced to

less than 5 percent of the historic amount in North America. Riparian

communities support diversity and have high wildlife values.

Strategies

T Within two years following funding approval, develop a biological

monitoring program managed by a Wildlife Biologist. The program

would include conducting biological inventory studies and habitat

surveys to gather baseline information to evaluate impacts of

management decisions on the Refuge. Hire a GS-9/11 Wildlife Biologist

in 2000 (RONS Projects).

T Strengthen existing and develop new cooperative efforts with Federal

and State agencies, and private landowners regarding

interrelationships between wildlife, livestock, hydrology, public use,

and the ecosystem. Throughout the term of this Plan, the Refuge

would provide technical assistance to landowners on land management

issues.

T Maintain approximately a 200-foot wide buffer strip on each side of the

Neosho River to preserve riparian habitat. Assess the need to increase

the width of the buffer zone where terrain conditions and habitat needs

require additional protection.

T Gradually reduce farmed acres to allow for the development of riparian

zones, field buffer strips, wetlands, and prairie grassland and

bottomland hardwood restoration. Approximately 75 acres of habitat

would be restored annually.

T Utilize available management tools to control noxious weeds on the

Refuge. These tools include but are not limited to biological, chemical,

mechanical (farming, mowing), prescribed fire, and timber

management.

T Within 10 years, restore 400 acres of native prairie sites that have been

invaded by noxious weeds. Biological control would be the preferred

method but chemical, mechanical, and burning methods as well as reseeding may need to be utilized. (RONS Project)
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 43

Objective 2: Maintain and restore habitat for native wildlife including

invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, and provide wintering

grounds for waterfowl.

Rationale for Objective: While the Refuge has historically been managed

primarily for the benefit of migratory waterfowl in the Central Flyway, the

purposes of the Refuge state that the Refuge would be managed for the

“conservation, maintenance, and management of wildlife resources.” In

order to provide the life requirements for the native species that have

historically inhabited the Refuge, habitat needs to be provided and

maintained. Additionally, lesser known native species need to be

researched to determine their possible presence and habitat needs.

Strategies

T Monitor wildlife populations including neotropical migrants (i.e.,

passerine, shorebirds, marsh birds, and waterfowl), reptiles,

amphibians, and mammals on a periodic basis.

T Provide food, habitat, and feeding areas for migratory and resident

bird populations (i.e., shorebirds, marsh birds, waterfowl, and

neotropical migrants) through crop production, wetland restoration,

and moist soil and riparian area management.

T Promote research and conservation of lesser known native species,

typically amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, invertebrates, and

native vegetation. Address potential hazards from zebra mussels and

other exotic invasions.

T Identify, protect, and maintain/restore sites where habitats of concern

are found. These sites include but are not limited to wet meadows,

oxbows, virgin/native prairie, and bottomland hardwoods.

Objective 3: Follow existing recovery plan objectives, manage, monitor,

and study threatened, endangered, and candidate species such as the bald

eagle, peregrine falcon, Neosho madtom, and flat-floater mussel, their

habitat requirements, predator susceptibility, exotic species encroachment,

and human induced impacts to prevent further decline and eventual loss.

Rationale for Objective: Any threatened or endangered species found on

the Refuge should receive the consideration of habitat management

decisions that enhance the survival of the species by providing appropriate

protection to enhance the existing Refuge habitat for that species.

Strategies

T Provide protected habitat free from disturbance (i.e., all terrain

vehicles, hunting, aircraft, trampling, etc.) as required to protect

sensitive species on a case-by-case basis through opportunistic

management practices such as temporary or seasonal road closures.

T Support education about local endangered species for area schools and

NGO’s by conducting informative talks and promoting research of

habitat requirements, population dynamics, and the problems

endangered and threatened species face in the Ecosystem.
44 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Objective 4: Utilize appropriate fire management strategies and tactics to

maintain, protect, and/or restore Refuge habitats. Fire management would

comprise approximately 10 percent of the total annual habitat management

capabilities on the Refuge.

Rationale for Objective: Fire is a useful management tool for the

restoration and maintenance of Refuge habitats.

Strategies

T Suppress wildfires, including trespass fires, in a safe, efficient, cost

effective manner consistent with resources and values at risk. This will

vary from aggressive initial attack to allowing fires to burn themselves

out.

T Utilize minimum impact strategies and tactics to minimize

environmental impacts in both wildfire suppression and prescribed fire

operations.

T Prescribed fire will be used to modify vegetative communities for

improved habitat for native flora and fauna, ecosystem function, and

hazard fuel reduction.

T Cooperate with other agencies in wildfire suppression and prescribed

fire operations.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 45

Hydrological Restoration and Water Quality

Goal 2: To restore and maintain a hydrological system for the Neosho

River drainage by managing for wetlands (Map #8), control of

exotic species, and management of trust responsibilities for the

maintenance of plant and animal communities.

Objective 1: Restore a more natural hydrology to the reach of the Neosho

River and its associated wetlands within the Refuge boundaries in order to

benefit native aquatic and riparian plant and animal communities. Restore

approximately 600 acres of habitat to more natural conditions.

Rationale for Objective: With the construction of the John Redmond

Reservoir, native habitats have been lost as a result of man-made impacts.

Restoration of those portions of habitat that can be restored to more

natural conditions would benefit the native wildlife.

Strategies

T Within five years, restore the hydrology of wetlands that were drained

for farming, road construction, and other developments.

Approximately 600 acres are to be restored to more natural conditions.

(RONS Project)

T Continue to develop communication and cooperative efforts concerning

ongoing projects within the area that affect channel morphology with

the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Corps.

T Update the comprehensive Water Management Plan to provide

guidance for the management of existing and potential water rights for

natural and man-made wetlands within the Refuge.

T Within 15 years, develop and maintain a total of approximately 3,500

acres as moist soil units.

T Conduct a long-term contaminant monitoring program on the Refuge

using the September 1999 Contaminant Assessment Report (Appendix

K) as a baseline.
46 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Objective 2: Protect and conserve populations of aquatic species

designated as endangered, threatened, or species of concern.

Rationale for Objective: Any threatened or endangered species found on

the Refuge should receive the consideration of habitat management

decisions that enhance the survival of the species by providing appropriate

protection and enhance the existing Refuge habitat for that species.

Strategies

T Develop cooperative management strategies with other Federal, State,

and NGO’s to support maintenance and restoration of habitats

supporting (or potentially supporting) native communities with special

emphasis on federal and state listed species.

T Assist in developing and revising recovery plans for listed species

found on the Refuge.

T Promote a public outreach campaign that stresses the importance of

restoring endangered species and their relationship to sound

ecosystem management.

Objective 3: Develop and support ongoing resource management practices

that emphasize the control of invasive species.

Rationale for Objective: Due to the introduction of nonnative species,

including state listed noxious weeds, native vegetation has been replaced

by exotic species. Control of these species on the Refuge is a difficult task.

Constant vigilance and control efforts are required to preserve habitats on

the Refuge.

Strategies

T Control nonnative vegetation in riparian areas of the Neosho River and

its tributaries through succession.

T Within five years, retire approximately 600 acres of cropland to allow

for the development of buffer strips adjacent to riparian zones and

wetlands.

T Continue to participate and cooperate with the U.S. Department of

Agriculture (USDA) and other organizations in approved biological

efforts to control exotic species. The Refuge would provide test study

sites when practical.

T Utilize interactions with the public (media releases, public meetings,

etc.) to disseminate information on the negative impacts that most

nonnative species have on native species and the natural ecosystem as

a whole.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 47
48 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 49

Public Use, Recreation, Wildlife Interpretation, and Education

Goal 3: Provide opportunities for wildlife-dependent public access and

recreational opportunities to include compatible forms of hunting,

fishing, wildlife observation, photography, interpretation, and

educational activities.

Objective 1: Maintain and improve quality wildlife-dependent recreational

opportunities on the Refuge.

Rationale for Objective: Wildlife-dependent recreation is a priority as

mandated by the Wildlife Improvement Act of 1997.

Strategies

T Within two years of funding approval, formulate and implement a

comprehensive Public Use Plan. This Plan would address all forms of

public use and access.

T Following funding approval, add a GS-5/7/9 ORP position to develop

and conduct the Outdoor Recreation Program which would include off

Refuge outreach programs. (RONS Project)

T Develop a visitor service center.

Objective 2: Provide compatible hunting and fishing opportunities.

Rationale for Objective: While hunting currently occurs on the Refuge,

the value and quality of the activity could be improved through close

cooperation with other agencies and through careful management of

hunting access. Law enforcement would play a vital part in monitoring the

hunting and other public use activities on the Refuge.

Strategies

T Add one full-time law enforcement officer to be shared between Flint

Hills NWR and Marais des Cygnes NWR. (RONS Project)

T Use local media and other public outreach tools to keep the public

informed and to enhance hunting and fishing on the Refuge.

T Maintain the quality of the fishing and hunting opportunities on the

Refuge by utilizing road closures and access restrictions.
50 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Objective 3: Improve existing and/or develop new compatible recreational

opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography at Flint Hills NWR to

allow for increases in public use.

Rationale for Objective: Over the years, wildlife viewing and wildlife

photography have become more popular with the public. To meet this

increased demand, additional facilities and programs are needed.

Strategies

T Following funding approval, develop two viewing and photography

blinds with access trails. The blinds would be flood tolerant and/or

removable to avoid damage during the flood season. (RONS Project)

T Following funding approval, enhance three existing nature trails for

public use. (RONS Project)

T Following funding approval, develop informational and interpretive

signs on the Refuge. (RONS Project)

T Use local media and public outreach to inform the public about

opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography at Flint Hills NWR.

Objective 4: Promote understanding of the Service’s mission and the

Refuge’s role in wildlife conservation.

Rationale for Objective: Educational activities and public outreach are

essential to inform and educate the public about recreational opportunities

and public use on the Refuge.

Strategies

T Revise and expand brochures to inform and educate the public

regarding the Service mission and the recreational and educational

opportunities provided by the Refuge. (RONS Project)

T Conduct school and educational programs that include field activities

throughout the year. (RONS Project)

T Host on-site events and participate in community events to promote

the Refuge and the Service.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 51

Cultural Resources

Goal 4: To protect, manage, and interpret cultural resources on the Flint

Hills NWR for the benefit of present and future generations.

Objective 1: Protect cultural resources on the Refuge in compliance with

all applicable Federal mandates.

Rationale for Objective: The presence of cultural resources on the Refuge

has been documented as required by Federal mandates.

Strategies

T Verify locations of known cultural resources using GPS technologies.

T Sample inventory one-third of the Refuge to determine if additional

cultural resources exist.

T Utilize standard law enforcement practices and strategies to protect

identified and unidentified cultural resources.

T Re-vegetate cultural resource sites to stabilize the surface area while

at the same time reduce the site’s visibility.

Objective 2: Interpret the cultural resources of the Refuge and educate the

Refuge visitor to foster appreciation and understanding of current and past

cultures.

Rationale for Objective: As public use increases, increased efforts to

educate the public and protect cultural resources would be needed.

Strategies

T Within three years following funding approval, prepare an information

pamphlet for distribution from the visitor center concerning the

nature, value, and need for protection of cultural resources on the

Refuge.

T Install interpretive panels to inform the public of the nature, value,

and need for protection of cultural resources on the Refuge.

Interagency Coordination and Relations

Goal 5: To strengthen interagency and jurisdictional relationships in order

to coordinate efforts with respect to Refuge and surrounding area

issues resulting in decisions benefitting fish and wildlife resources

while at the same time avoiding duplication of effort.

Objective 1: Cultivate interagency, jurisdictional and community

relationships to support the Refuge mission.

Rationale for Objective: Because the Refuge is on land owned by the

Corps and managed under an agreement with the Corps, close cooperation

with the Corps is essential. Additionally, numerous other groups and

communities have interests in the operations of the Refuge.

Strategies

T Continue to develop a close relationship with the Corps and other

stakeholders that would define and implement policies and

requirements that concern the Refuge.

T Develop a stronger relationship with local agencies, landowners,

counties, and other stakeholders to influence land development

adjacent to the Refuge in a way that would benefit wildlife.

T Develop a Refuge support group to improve community involvement.

T Work closely with the Corps to help mitigate impacts from proposed

increased pool elevations.
52 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Improvement of Staffing, Funding, and Facilities

Goal 6: Improve staffing, funding, and facilities that would result in longterm enhancement of habitat and wildlife resources in the area of

ecological concern and support the achievement of the goals of this

Plan and the goals of the System.

Objective 1: Increase staffing to the proposed “Proposed Staffing Level”

or its equivalent in order to provide the level of support needed to

accomplish the goals of this Plan.

Rationale for Objective: In order to accomplish Refuge goals and

objectives, additional staff would be required. Additionally, foreseeable

increases in public use would be difficult to accommodate without

additional staff.

Strategies

T Add additional staff required to support the goals of this Plan.

T Utilize internal mechanisms such as RONS to justify and acquire the

additional funding and personnel to accomplish Refuge goals within 15

years.

T Pursue agreements with other interested agencies and public partners

to provide the needed personnel and funds to accomplish Refuge goals.

Objective 2: Improve facilities in order to provide the infrastructure

needed to accomplish the goals of this Plan.

Rationale for Objective: Facilities provide the infrastructure that allows

the accomplishment of all Refuge goals and activities. Periodic improvements,

replacements, and additions are an integral part of the development of the

Refuge.

Strategies

T Construct an all steel storage building to store heavy equipment to

better protect and preserve equipment and comply with current

contaminant control regulations. (RONS Project)

T Construct a fire equipment storage facility. (RONS Project)

T Construct housing for seasonal fire fighting personnel. (RONS Project)

T Expand office space to accommodate additional staff.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 53

Legal, Policy, Administrative

Guidelines, and Other

Special Considerations

This Section outlines current legal, administrative, and policy guidelines

for the management of national wildlife refuges. It begins with the more

general considerations such as laws and executive orders for the Service,

and moves toward those guidelines that apply specifically to the Flint Hills

NWR.

This unit also includes sections dealing with specially designated sites such

as historical landmarks and archaeological sites, all of which carry with

them specific direction by law and/or policy. In addition, consideration is

given to guidance prompted by other formal and informal natural resource

planning and research efforts.

All the legal, administrative, policy, and planning guidelines provide the

framework within which management activities are proposed and

developed. This guidance also provides the framework for the

enhancement of cooperation between the Flint Hills NWR and other

surrounding jurisdictions in the ecosystem.

Legal Mandates

Administration of the refuges takes into account a myriad of bills passed by

the United States Congress and signed into law by the President of the

United States. These statutes are considered to be the law of the land as

are executive orders promulgated by the President. The following is a list

of most of the pertinent statutes establishing legal parameters and policy

direction to the National Wildlife Refuge System. Included are those

statutes and mandates pertaining to the management of the Flint Hills

NWR.

For those laws that provide special guidance and have strong implications

relevant to the Service or Flint Hills NWR, legal summaries are offered in

Appendix I. Many of the summaries have been taken from The Evolution

of National Wildlife Law (Bean 1985). For the bulk of applicable laws and

other mandates, legal summaries are available upon request.
54 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Agency-Wide Policy Directions

Fish and Wildlife Service Agency Mission — Since the early 1900’s, the

Service mission and purpose has evolved, while holding on to a

fundamental national commitment to threatened wildlife ranging from the

endangered bison to migratory birds of all types. The earliest national

wildlife refuges and preserves are examples of this. Pelican Island, the first

refuge, was established in 1903 for the protection of colonial nesting birds

such as the snowy egret and the endangered brown pelican. The National

Bison Range was instituted for the endangered bison in 1906. Malheur

National Wildlife Refuge was established in Oregon in 1908 to benefit all

migratory birds with emphasis on colonial nesting species on Malheur

Lake. It was not until the 1930’s that the focus of refuge programs began to

shift toward protection of migratory waterfowl (i.e., ducks and geese). As a

result of drought conditions in the 1930’s, waterfowl populations became

severely depleted. The special emphasis of the Service (then called the

Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife) during the next several decades

was on the restoration of critically depleted migratory waterfowl

populations.

The passage of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 refocused the

activities of the Service as well as other governmental agencies. This Act

mandated the conservation of threatened and endangered species of fish,

wildlife, and plants both through Federal action and by encouraging the

establishment of State programs. In the late 1970’s, the Bureau of Sport

Fisheries and Wildlife was renamed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to

broaden its scope of wildlife conservation responsibilities to include

endangered species, as well as game and nongame species. A myriad of

other conservation oriented laws followed, including the Fish and Wildlife

Conservation Act of 1980, which emphasized the conservation of nongame

species.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 55

National Wildlife Refuge System: Mission and Goals

The National Wildlife Refuge System is the only existing system of

federally owned lands managed chiefly for the conservation of wildlife. The

System mission is a derivative of the Service mission. This mission was

most recently revised in October 1997 by passage of the National Wildlife

Refuge System Improvement Act (P.L. 105-57). This Act followed up on

Executive Order 12996 (April 1996) Management of Public Uses on

National Wildlife Refuges to reflect the importance of conserving natural

resources for the benefit of present and future generations of people.

This Act amends the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act

of 1966 in a manner that provides for the Refuge System. It would ensure

that the Refuge System is effectively managed as a national system of

lands, waters, and interests for the protection and conservation of our

nation’s wildlife resources.

The Act gives guidance to the Secretary of the Interior in the overall

management of the Refuge System. The Act’s main components include a

strong and singular conservation mission for the Refuge System, a

requirement that the Secretary of the Interior maintain the biological

integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the Refuge System, a new

process for determining compatible uses of refuges, and a requirement for

preparing comprehensive conservation plans. The Act states first and

foremost that the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System be

focused singularly on wildlife conservation.

The Refuge Improvement Act is an overarching Act with both general and

specific elements that provide long-term management direction for the

Refuge System. It became law the day it was signed; however, pending

development and approval of final rules and regulations, the Service has

issued the following as interim policy guidance with respect to the Act’s

Sections:

Sec. 1 Purpose

This Order provides guidance for implementing specific provisions of the

National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, pending

development of new policies and regulations responsive to the Act.

Sec. 2 Scope

This policy applies to management of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Sec. 3 Existing policy

Existing policy and directives for management of the National Wildlife

Refuge System remain in force except for those which are in conflict with

provisions in the Act, in which case the Act prevails.

Sec. 4 Mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System

The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is:

“To administer a national network of lands and waters for the

conservation, management, and where appropriate, restoration of the

fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United

States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.”
56 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Sec. 5Administration of the National Wildlife Refuge System

a. The term “refuge” means a designated area of land, water, or an

interest in land or water within the Refuge System, but does not

include Coordination Areas.

b. Each refuge shall be managed to fulfill the mission of the Refuge

System, as well as the specific purposes for which that refuge was

established.

c. Each refuge shall be managed in a manner that maintains the

biological integrity, diversity and environmental health of the Refuge

System.

d. The status and trends of wildlife resources on each refuge shall be

monitored.

e. The purposes of each refuge are the purposes specified in or derived

from the law, proclamation, executive order, agreement, public land

order, donation document, or administrative memorandum

establishing, authorizing, or expanding a refuge, refuge unit, or refuge

sub-unit.

f. Each refuge shall ensure effective coordination, interaction, and

cooperation with neighboring landowners and appropriate State fish

and wildlife agencies.

g. Each refuge shall cooperate and collaborate with other Federal

agencies and appropriate state fish and wildlife agencies in refuge

acquisition and management.

Sec. 6 Public Uses

a. When determined to be compatible, the following six wildlifedependent recreational uses are the priority general public uses of the

Refuge System: hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography,

and environmental education and interpretation.

b. Compatible priority public uses shall receive enhanced consideration

over other public uses in refuge planning and management.

c. Priority public uses are appropriate and legitimate uses of the Refuge

System. Refuges are strongly encouraged to seek opportunities to

permit these activities when ways can be found to ensure their

compatibility. Reasonable efforts should be made to ensure that lack of

funding is not an obstacle to permitting these uses through

development of partnerships with the States, local communities, and

private and nonprofit groups.

d. The following general hierarchy between refuge activities and public

uses would apply: Priority 1 - activities necessary to fulfill the refuge

purposes and the Refuge System mission; Priority 2 - provide

opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreational uses, when

determined to be compatible. All other public uses would be a lower

priority.

e. In providing priority public uses, refuges shall emphasize opportunities

for families to experience compatible wildlife-dependent recreation,

particularly opportunities for parents and their children to safely

engage in traditional outdoor activities, such as fishing and hunting.

Sec. 7 Compatibility

a. Compatibility determinations prepared during the period between

enactment of the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of

1997 (October 9, 1997) and issuance of a new compatibility policy would

be made under the existing compatibility standards and process.

Sec. 8 Comprehensive Conservation Planning

a. The Act provides that Comprehensive Conservation Plans shall be

completed for all refuge units within 15 years from the date of

enactment.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 57

Refuge Purpose Statements

Formal establishment of a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System is

usually based upon a specific statute or executive order specifically

enumerating the purpose of the particular unit. However, refuges can also

be established by the Service under the authorization offered in such laws

as the Endangered Species Act of 1973 or the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956.

In these cases, lands are identified by the Service that have the right

elements to contribute to the recovery of a species or the maintenance of

habitat types. Often, the Service works in cooperation with private

nonprofit organizations in efforts to acquire suitable lands.

Flint Hills NWR was established in 1966 and “. . .shall be administered by

him (Secretary of the Interior) directly or in accordance with cooperative

agreements . . . and in accordance with such rules and regulations for the

conservation, maintenance, and management of wildlife, resources thereof,

and its habitat thereon, . . .” 16 U.S.C. § 644 (Fish and Wildlife

Coordination Act, 1958).
58 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Plan Implementation

Refuge objectives are intended to be accomplished over the next 15 years.

Many of the management activities for Flint Hills NWR would require the

development of step-down management plans. Implementation of new

management activities would be phased in over time as described within

the step-down plans and would be contingent upon funding, staffing,

regional and national Service directives. This section identifies major

resource projects or planning to be accomplished within 5 to 10 years,

estimated initial costs, staffing and funding needs, partnership

opportunities, and step-down management plans.

Resource Projects

Listed below are a summary of major resource project needs addressing

the goals and objectives of this Plan. Each project summary includes

planning links to this CCP. This list only reflects the basic needs identified

by the planning team based on available information and are subject to

modification depending on future conditions, needs, and cost adjustments.

Project 1. Riparian Habitat Restoration and Protection

Provide and maintain riparian habitats and increase the diversity of

wildlife communities. Restoration management includes establishment of

riparian buffer strips, control of exotic vegetation, and prescribed fire in

some areas.

Planning Links: Goal 1, Objectives 1, 2, 3 and 4

Goal 2, Objectives 1 and 3

Goal 5, Objective 1

Goal 7, Objective 1

Project 2. Water Management

Develop and implement a Water Management Plan. The Plan would

determine water needs to maintain wetlands acres and restore riparian

habitats of the Neosho River, and estimate water rights needed for the

beneficial use of fish and wildlife. The Plan would include water

management strategies for the production of quality wetland habitat

components, and inventory and monitoring strategies for evaluating the

diversity of wetland communities.

Planning Links: Goal 2, Objectives 1 and 2

Goal 3, Objective 3

Goal 5, Objective 1

Goal 7, Objective 1
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 59

Project 3. Wetland Restoration and Management

Restore and maintain wetland habitats to more natural conditions.

Restoration management includes retiring cropland and constructing and

restoring wetlands to benefit wildlife resources.

Planning Links: Goal 1, Objectives 1, 2, and 3

Goal 2, Objectives 1, 2, and 3

Goal 5, Objective 1

Project 4. Grassland Management

Restore 400 acres of native prairie sites that have been invaded by noxious

weeds. Restoration management would include biological control, chemical

control, mechanical control, burning and re-seeding. Identify, protect and /

or restore remaining tracts of true native prairie grasslands.

Planning Links: Goal 1, Objectives 1, 2, 3, and 4

Goal 2, Objective 3

Goal 5, Objective 1

Goal 7, Objective 1

Project 5. Outdoor Recreation Improvement

Improve the outdoor recreation component of the Refuge by adding an

Outdoor Recreation Planner to the Refuge staff. Outdoor recreation

improvements would include adding or improving trails, wildlife viewing

and photography blinds, development of informational pamphlets, and

increased public education and outreach.

Planning Links: Goal 1, Objective 3

Goal 3, Objectives 1, 2, 3, and 4

Goal 4, Objective 2

Goal 5, Objective 1

Goal 6, Objective 1

Goal 7, Objective 1

Project 6. Public Use Plan and Visitor Services

Develop a Public Use Plan which emphasizes visitor services at the

headquarters and increased opportunities for wildlife related recreation

activities.

Planning Links: Goal 1, Objective 3

Goal 3, Objectives 1, 2, 3, and 4

Goal 4, Objective 2

Goal 5, Objective 1

Goal 6, Objective 1

Goal 7, Objective 1
60 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Proposed Funding and Personnel

Proposed Staffing Level:
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 61

Current base funding and other funds

Total annual budget for the Refuge varies depending on the Service

priorities for the resource projects each year and the national and regional

allocation of RONS and Maintenance Management System (MMS) funds.

The following is a general breakdown of the annual operation budget of the

Refuge (amount $K):

*Description of funding categories:

1261 funds include annual fixed costs: salaries, utilities, gasoline,

diesel, equipment repair, mandatory training/travel.

1262 funds includes routine maintenance and vehicle replacement,

maintenance on refuge facilities, and infrastructure.

8260 funds are from receipt of sales from the farming program and can

be used to fund Refuge operations.

9100 and 9251 are funds used for fire preparedness.

1121 monies fund the Private Lands Program.

Partnership Opportunities

Many opportunities exist to partner with county, State and Federal agencies,

NGO’s, private landowners, and conservation groups such as PIF, Ducks

Unlimited, The Nature Conservancy, Wild Turkey Federation, and Quail

Unlimited to combine efforts on resource issues or projects that would

mutually benefit all with the greatest benefits to the area’s natural

resources. The benefits of the following partnerships or relationships are

emphasized: P Establishing relationships through partners for fish and wildlife

programs, private landowners, and conservation organizations could

result in the development of conservation agreements or other options

for land protection, habitat enhancement and restoration, and

opportunities for continuity of management.

P Strengthening partnerships with Kansas Wildlife and Parks and local

law enforcement agencies could lead to sharing of volunteers to conduct

activities associated with public use on the Refuge wetlands, enhancing

biological programs and management strategies of habitats and wildlife

populations on adjoining lands, sharing research opportunities and

information that would mutually benefit management of adjoining

resource areas, coordinating water management to enhance wetland

habitats, improving wildlife-oriented recreation opportunities through

joint efforts, and coordinating efforts for more efficient law

enforcement coverage.

P Partnerships or joint efforts with the Corps, Kansas Department of

Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Water Office, and Neosho Basin Advisory

Committee, the timing and amount of water flows could be maximized

for beneficial use on riparian, wetland, and aquatic communities of the

Neosho adjacent to the Refuge. Improved relationships with area

water users and the Corps would provide better communication on

water issues. A coordinated effort for the protection of water rights

and efficient use of this limited resource would benefit all users. Annual Operations Budget (amount $K)

Y * ear 1 * 261 1 * 262 8 * 260 9100 9251*1 l 121* Tota

1 9 999 3 0 20.6 8 9 6. 8 0 6.6 9 0 7.7 2 8 30. $821.0

1 3 998 3 0 01.2 7 0 0. 1 0 18.0 4 3 9.8 2 3 16. $755.3

1 5 997 3 0 02.2 2 9 5. 2 8 86.4 6 0 2.5 2 2 07. $883.3

1 5 996 2 0 86.8 6 8 5. 7 0 4.0 2 0 6.6 1 3 80. $632.5
62 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Step-Down Management Planning

The following is a list of step-down management plans that include

mandatory plans, programmatic plans, and special use plans. Often these

plans would require compatibility determinations, environmental

assessments, or other supporting justification before they can be

implemented. The preparation and execution of these plans is dependent

on funding and the availability of staff or technical support.

Completed Plans and Other Documents

Station Safety Plan: describes actions and improvements necessary to

make station facilities and operations comply with Federal

occupational health and safety standards and other applicable

regulations.

Fire Management Plan: determines the best use of prescribed fire in

managing and enhancing the Refuge habitats and addresses wildfire

preparedness and suppression. Plan was last updated in 1997.

Sign Plan: provides a record of all signs installed throughout the Refuge

and guidelines for sign replacement.

Hunting Plan: addresses specific aspects of the Refuge hunting program

defining the species to be hunted, season structure, hunting methods,

and applicable Refuge specific hunting regulations. Completed

between 1980-1984.

Migratory Bird Disease Contingency Plan: describes strategies to be

implemented during migratory bird disease outbreaks. Completed

between 1980-1984. Needs to be reviewed and updated.

Integrated Pest Management Plan: describes biological, mechanical, or

chemical methods for the most effective eradication and control of

exotic weeds and woody vegetation and specific pests including those

damaging crops without impacting the natural resources of the area.

Plans and Documents to be Developed in the Future

Public Use Management Plan: addresses specific wildlife related public

recreation issues and needs.

Refuge Inventory and Monitoring Plan: describes specific wildlife

inventory activities and techniques to be conducted to monitor wildlife

populations including specific species population objectives, census/

survey methods, data analysis, and reporting requirements.

Habitat Management Plan: describes the most appropriate management

strategies for habitat protection, enhancement and restoration,

emphasizes specific habitats and areas for management activities,

provides monitoring methods and evaluation criteria.

Cultural Resources Management Plan: identifies areas with significant

sites and develops methods for the management of these resources. The

Cultural Resources Management (CRM) Plan also identifies areas with high

potential of significant resources and provides the manager with information

to make better decisions regarding development or management

activities. A comprehensive cultural resource inventory is a prerequisite to

the development of the CRM plan as land management activities

including public access could impact unidentified or unevaluated

resources.

Water Use Plan: describes annual water management strategies including

quantities of water delivered, place of use and timing, and habitat objectives.

Prescribed Fire Environmental Assessments: an Environmental

Assessment is planned to assess the environmental impacts of

prescribed fire as a management tool in restoring and enhancing

grassland habitats on the Flint Hills NWR. The primary objective of

the environmental assessment is to determine the effects of prescribed

fire on human and wildlife populations. A Finding of No Significant

Impact would determine fire to have no significant environmental

effects. If prescribed fire is not deemed a major Federal action

significantly affecting the quality of human environment within the

meaning of section 102 (2) © of the National Environmental Policy Act

of 1969, no formal environmental statement would be recommended.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 63

Wilderness Review

This Refuge does not conform to the definition of a wilderness, as described in the

Wilderness Act of 1964. The Refuge is an overlay of Corps property and is

managed under a cooperative agreement with the Corps. Additionally, the Refuge

is fragmented by numerous county roads and heavily impacted by manmade flooding events from the Reservoir that inundate as much as 95

percent of the Refuge. Acquisition of additional lands in the vicinity of the

KAAP near Parsons, Kansas, may eventually provide sufficient

opportunities for exploring wilderness designation.

Refuge Program Monitoring and Evaluation

Where possible, the CCP identifies and incorporates monitoring and

evaluation activities as strategies under the objectives developed for Flint

Hills NWR. Each Refuge program has specific guidelines described in the

appropriate step-down plan. Step-down plans include approaches and

methods to monitoring management activities and specific criteria to

evaluate the outcomes of the activities. As new information becomes

available through baseline data, research, or outcomes of management

projects the existing Refuge programs would be adjusted. Step-down plans

including the monitoring and evaluation sections would require periodic

review, program evaluation, and adjustments as necessary.

Monitoring and Evaluation of the CCP

For this Plan to be a useful working document for present and future

Refuge managers, documentation and accountability must be a priority.

The most effective implementation of the CCP would require periodic

review, evaluation, and the addition of information as necessary to keep the

document as current as the Refuge programs that evolve.
64 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

References

Bean, Michael J. 1985. The Evolution of National Wildlife Law, Praeger

Publishers, New York.

Burt, W. H. and R. P. Grossenheider, 1976. A Field Guide to the Mammals.

Houghton Mifflin Co. Boston.

DeGraaf, R.M. and Rappole, J. H. 1995. Neotropical Migratory Birds,

(Natural History, Distribution, and Population Change) Comstock

Publishing Associates, a Division of Cornell University Press, Ithaca

and London.

Ehrlich, Paul R., D.S. Dobkin and D. Wheye. 1988. The Birders Handbook:

a Field Guide to the Natural History of North American Birds. Simon

and Schuster.

The Institute for Public Policy and Business Research (IPPBR). 1999.

(http://www.ukans .edu/cwis /units/IPPBR). University of Kansas,

Lawrence, KS 66506 70874-4490 USA.

National Geographic Society.1987. Field Guide to the Birds of North America.

Oblinger-Smith Corporation. 1982. Flint Hills NWR Master Plan.

Oblinger-Smith Corporation, Wichita, KS.

Peterson, R. T. 1961. A Field Guide to Western Birds. Houghton Mifflin Co.

Boston.

Thies, R. M. 1981. Archaeological Investigations in the John Redmond

Reservoir, East Central Kansas 1979. Kansas State Historical Society.

Submitted to US Army Corp of Engineers, Tulsa. pg. 306.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, NRCS 1999. The PLANTS database

(http://plants.usda.gov.plants). National Plant Data Center, Baton

Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1997. Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge

Annual Narrative Report Calender Year 1997. Flint Hills National

Wildlife Refuge.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 65

List of Preparers

Research Management Consultants, Inc. (RMCI)

Louis J. Bridges - Project Scientist/Biologist

B.S. Biology/Natural History; M. A. Science Education

Seven years of experience at RMCI as an Environmental Scientist/

Biologist. Sixteen years of related experience ranging from research

with the Colorado Division of Wildlife to Environmental Science

Instructor at the University of Northern Colorado.

J. Paul Wharry - Environmental Scientist IV

B.A. Biology

Seven years of experience at RMCI as an Environmental Scientist.

Sixteen years of related experience ranging from High School Science

Instructor to Director of the Frontiers of Science Institute at the

University of Northern Colorado.

C. Anne Janik - Environmental Scientist III

M.S. Wildlife Management

Eleven years of experience with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a

Wildlife biologist for refuges in Alaska, California, and Nevada.

Michael S. Piro - Environmental Scientist III

B.S. Biology/Minor Chemistry

One year of experience at RMCI as an Environmental Scientist.

Twelve years of related experience ranging from Project Management

of RCRA sites to conducting Phase I Real Estate Transaction

Assessments.

USFWS contributors: Jerre Gamble, Refuge Manager; Alice Hanley,

Refuge Operations Specialist; Adam Misztal, Planning Branch; Jaymee

Fojtik, GIS/Mapping; Beverly Boecher, Cover Photo; Barbara Shupe,

Document Layout.
66 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Glossary

Alternative: A set of objectives and strategies needed to achieve refuge

goals and the desired future condition.

Biological Diversity: The variety of life forms and its processes, including

the variety of living organisms, the genetic differences among them, and

the communities and ecosystems in which they occur.

Biotic Community: An assemblage of interrelated plants and animals that

together inhabit a defined location.

Compatible Use: A wildlife-dependent recreational use, or any other use

on a refuge than would not materially interfere with or detract from the

fulfillment of the mission of the Service or the purpose(s) of the refuge.

Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP): A document that describes

the desired future conditions of the refuge, and specifies management

actions to achieve refuge goals and the mission of the National Wildlife

Refuge System.

Ecosystem: A dynamic and interrelated complex of plant and animal

communities and their associated non-living environment.

Ecosystem Approach: A strategy or plan to protect and restore the

natural function, structure, and species composition of an ecosystem,

recognizing that all components are interrelated.

Ecosystem Management: Management of an ecosystem that includes all

ecological, social, and economic components which make up the whole of

the system.

Ecoregion: Ecological region as determined by the Service, but defined by

geographic similarities.

Endangered Species: Any species of plant or animal defined through the

Endangered Species Act as being in danger of extinction throughout all or

a significant portion of its range, and published in the Federal Register.

Environmental Assessment (EA): A systematic analysis to determine if

proposed actions would result in a significant effect on the quality of the

environment.

Exotic: A plant or animal species not native to the area and introduced

intentionally or unintentionally.

Goals: Descriptive statements of desired future conditions.

Habitat: The environment in which a plant or animal naturally occurs, its

“living space.”

Issue: Any unsettled matter that requires a management decision. For

example, a resource management problem, concern, a threat to natural

resources, a conflict in uses, or the presence of an undesirable resource

condition.

National Wildlife Refuge (NWR): A designated area of land or water or

an interest in land or water within the System, including national wildlife

refuges, wildlife management areas, waterfowl production areas, and other

areas under Service jurisdiction for the protection and conservation of fish

and wildlife, and plant resources. A complete listing of all units of the

refuge system may be found in the current “Annual Report of Lands Under

Control of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.”
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 67

National Wildlife Refuge System (System): All lands, waters, and

interests therein administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as

wildlife refuges, wildlife ranges, wildlife management areas, waterfowl

production areas, and other areas for the protection and conservation of

fish, wildlife, and plant resources.

No Action Alternative: An alternative under which existing management

would be continued.

Non-priority Public Use: Any use other than a compatible wildlifedependent recreational use.

Objectives: A concise statement of what would be achieved, how much

would be achieved, when and where it would be achieved and who is

responsible for the work. Objectives are derived from goals and provide the

basis for determining management strategies, monitoring refuge

accomplishments, and evaluating the success of the strategies. Objectives

should be attainable and time specific and should be stated qualitatively to

the extent possible. If objectives cannot be stated quantitatively, they may

be stated qualitatively; actions to be accomplished to achieve a desired

outcome.

Preferred Alternative: The Service’s selected alternative identified in the

Draft CCP.

Priority Public Use: Compatible wildlife dependent recreational uses

(hunting, fishing wildlife observation and photography, environmental

education and interpretation) are the priority general public uses of the

system and shall receive priority consideration in refuge planning and

management.

Proposed Action: The Service proposed action for CCP’s is to prepare and

implement the CCP.

Public Involvement: The process by which interested and affected

individuals, organizations, agencies, and governmental entities participate

in the planning and decision making process.

Purpose of the Refuge: The purposes specified in or derived from the law,

proclamation executive order, agreement, public land order, donating

document, or administrative memorandum establishing, authorizing or

expanding a refuge, refuge unit or refuge sub-unit.

Riparian: Of or relating to land lying immediately adjacent to a water

body and having specific characteristics of that transitional area, such as

riparian vegetation. A stream bank is an example of a riparian area.

Scoping: A process for determining the scope of issues to be addressed by

a CCP and for identifying the significant issues. Involved in the scoping

process are Federal, state, and local agencies, private organizations, and

individuals.

Species: A distinctive kind of plant or animal having distinguishable

characteristics, and that can interbreed and produce young. A category of

biological classification.

Strategies: A general approach or specific actions to achieve objectives.

Threatened Species: Those plant or animal species likely to become

endangered species throughout all or a significant portion of their range

within the foreseeable future. A plant or animal identified and defined in

accordance with the 1973 Endangered Species Act and published in the

Federal Register.
68 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Vegetation: Plants in general, or the sum total of the plant life in an area.

Vegetation Type: A category of land based on potential or existing

dominant plant species of a particular area.

Watershed: The entire land area that collects and drains water into a

stream or stream system.

Wetland: Areas such as lakes, marshes, and streams that are inundated by

surface or ground water for a long enough period of time each year to

support, and do support under natural conditions, plants and animals that

require saturated or seasonally saturated soils.

Wildlife-dependent Recreational Use: A use of a refuge that involves

hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and photography, or environmental

education and interpretation, as identified in the National Wildlife Refuge

System Improvement Act of 1997.

Wildlife Diversity: A measure of the number of wildlife species in an area

and their relative abundance.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 69

Abbreviations and Acronyms

CCP Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Corps U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

CRM Cultural Resources Management

EA Environmental Assessment

GSA General Services Administration

KAAP Kansas Army Ammunition Plant

MMS Maintenance Management System

MSL Mean Sea Level

NEPA National Environmental Policy Act

NRCS Natural Resource Conservation Service

NWR National Wildlife Refuge

NGO Non-governmental Organization

ORP Outdoor Recreation Planner

PIF Partners-in-Flight

RONS Refuge Operating Needs System

Service U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

System National Wildlife Refuge System

USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture
70 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Appendix A.

Flint Hills NWR

Plant List

Plants of Coffey and Lyon Counties, Kansas, USA

Provided by the KANU Information Management

Systems

Acanthraceae

Water Willow Justicia americana

Fringed Leaf Ruellia Ruellia humilis

Limestone Ruellia Ruellia strepens

Aceraceae

Common Boxelder Acer negundo var. negundo

Violet Boxelder Acer negundo var. violaceum

Silver Maple Acer saccharium

Adiantaceae

Northern Maidenhair Fern Adiantum pendatum

Powdery Cloak Fern Argyochosma dealbata

Purple Cliff-brake Pellaea atropurpurea

Smooth Cliff-brake Pellaea glabella ssp. glabella

Agavacea

Limp Soap Weed Yucca filamentosa

Alismataceae

Smallflower Water Plantain Alisma subcordatum

Erect Burhead Echinodorus berterol

Creeping Burhead Echinodorus cordofolius

Shortbeak Arrowhead Sagittaria brevirostra

Common Arrowhead Sagittaria latifolia

Amaranthaceae

Prostrate Pigweed Amaranthus blitoides

Slender Pigweed Amaranthus hybridus

Palmer’s Pigweed Amaranthus palmeri

Rough Pigweed Amaranthus retroflexus

Water Hemp Amaranthus rudis

Spiny Pigweed Amaranthus spinosus

Anacardiaceae

Late Aromatic Sumac Rhus aromatica

Dwarf Sumac Rhus copellinum

Smooth Sumac Rhus glabra

Common Poison Ivy Toxicodenfron radicans ssp. negudo

Rydberg’s Poison Ivy Toxicodenfron rydbergii

Annonaceae

Pawpaw Asimina triloba

Apiaceae

Spreading Spermolepis Spermolepis innermis

Yellow Pimpernel Taenidia integerrima

Hedge Parsley Torilis arvensis

Golden Zizia Zizia aurea

Apocynaceae

Hemp Dogbane Apocyneum cannebinum

Araceae

Green Dragon Arisaema dracontium

Jack-in-the-Pulpit Arisaema triphyllum ssp. triphyllum

Virginia Arum Peltandra virginica

Asclepiadaceae

Bluntleaf Milkweed Asclepias amplexicaulus

Prairie Milkweed Asclepias hirtella

Swamp Milkweed Asclepias incarnata

Mead’s Milkweed Asclepias meadii

Purple Milkweed Asclepias purpurascens

Narrowleaf Milkweed Asclepias stenophylla

Sullivant’s Milkweed Asclepias sulivantii

Common Milkweed Asclepias syriaca

Butterfly Milkweed Asclepias tuberosa ssp. interior

Whorled Milkweed Asclepias verticillata

Green-flowered Milkweed Asclepias viridiflora

Green Milkweed Asclepias viridis

Climbing Milkweed Cynanchum laeve

Aspleniaceae

Ebony Spleenwort Asplenium platyneuron

Walking Fern Asplenium rhizophyllum

Asteraceae

Western Yarrow Achilles millefolium ssp. occidentalis

Hardheads Acroptilon repens

Common Ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia

Lanceleaf Ragweed Ambrosia bidentata

Western Ragweed Ambrosia psilostachya

Giant Ragweed Ambrosia trifida

Annual Broomweed Amphiachyris dracunculoides

Field Pussytoes Antennaria neglecta

Plantainleaf Pussytoes Antennaria parlinii ssp. fallax

Camomile Anthemis cotula

Common Burdock Arctium minus

 Arnoglossum atriplicifolium

 Arnoglossum plantagineum

Mexican Sagewort Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. mexicana

Drummond’s Aster Aster drummondii ssp. drummondii

Heath Aster Aster ericoidies ssp.ericoidies var. ericoidies

Smooth Blue Aster Aster laevis

Common Panicled Aster Aster lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus

Simple Panicled Aster Aster lanceolatus ssp. simplex

New England Aster Aster novae-angliae

Aromatic Aster Aster oblongifolius var. oblongifolius

Azure Aster Aster oolentangiensis

Small-headed Aster Aster parviceps

Slender Spreading Aster Aster patens var. gracilis

Hairy Aster Aster pilosus ssp. demotus

Hairy Aster Aster pilosus ssp. pilosus

Common Yellow-leaved Aster

 Aster praealtus var. praealtus

Silky Aster Aster sericeus

Saltmarsh Aster Aster subulatus var ligulatus

Tickseed Beggartick Bidens aristosa var. retrorsa

Spanish Needles Bidens bipinnata

Nodding Beggartick Bidens cernua

Leafybract Beggartick Bidens comosa

Devil’s Beggartick Bidens frondosa

Tall Beggartick Bidens vulgata greene

Violet Boltonia Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama

False Boneset Brickellia eupatorioides var. corymbulosa

Musk Thistle Carduus nutans ssp. leiophyllus

Ox-eye Daisy Chrysanthemum leucanthemum

Common Chicory Cichorium intybus

Tall Thistle Cirsium altissimum

Canada Thistle Cirsium arvense

Wavyleaf Thistle Cirsium undlatum

Bull Thistle Cirsium vulgare

Canada Horseweed Conyza canadensis

Lawn Horseweed Conyza ramosissima

Bigflower Coreopsis Coreopsis grandiflora

Finger Coreopsis Coreopsis palmata

Foetid Dogweed Dyssodia papposa.

Coneflower spp. Echinacea atrorubens

Pale Purple Coneflower Echinacea pallida
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 71

Yerba de Tajo Eclipta prostrata

Annual Fleabane Erigeron annuus

Philadelphia Fleabane Erigeron philadelphicus

Daisy Fleabane Erigeron strigosus

Tall Joe-pye-weed Eupatorium altissimum

Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum

Holzinger’s Joe-pye-weed

 Eupatorium purpureum var. holzingeri

White Snakeroot Eupatorium rugosum

Late Eupatorium Eupatorium serotinum

Viscid Euthamia Euthamia gymnospermoides

Fringed Quickweed Galinsoga quadriradiata

Fragrant Cudweed Gnaphalium obtusifolium

Common Sneezeweed Helenium autumnale

Sunflower spp. Helianthus X laetiflorus

Common Sunflower Helianthus annuus

Sawtooth Sunflower Helianthus grosseserratus

Maximilian’s Sunflower Helianthus maximiliani

Ashy Sunflower Helianthus mollis

Stiff Sunflower Helianthus pauciflorus var. pauciflorus

Willowleaf Sunflower Helianthus salicifolius

Jerusalem Artichoke Helianthus tuberosus

Longbeard Hawkweed Hieracium longipilum

Flattop Hymenopappus

 Hymenopappus scabiosaeus var. corymbosus

Annual Sumpweed Iva annua

Common Dwarf Dandelion Krigia cespitosa

Canada Lettuce Lactuca canadensis

Florida Lettuce Lactuca floridana

Louisiana lettuce Lactuca ludoviciana

Willowleaf Lettuce Lactuca saligna

Prickly Lettuce Lactuca serriola

Rough Gayfeather Liatris aspera

Dotted Gayfeather Liatris punctata

Thickspike Gayfeather Liatris pycnostachya

Hairy Gayfeather Liatris squarrosa var. hirsuta

Plains Groundsel Packera plattensis

Carolina False Dandelion Pyrrhopappus carolinianus

Yellow Prairie Coneflower Ratibida columnifera

Grayhead Prairie Coneflower Ratibida pinnata

Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta var. pulcherrima

Cutleaf Coneflower Rudbeckia laciniata

Sweet Coneflower Rudbeckia subtomentosa

Brown-eyed Susan Rudbeckia triloba

Compass Plant Silphium laciniatum

Cup Plant Silphium perfoliatum

Giant Goldenrod Solidago gigantea var. serotina

Missouri Goldenrod

 Solidago missouriensis var. fasciculata

Gray Goldenrod Solidago nemoralis var. longipetiolata

Stiff Goldenrod Solidago rigida var. rigida

Elm-leaved Golenrod Solidago ulmifolia var. microphylla

Prickly Sowthistle Sonchus asper

Common Dandelion Taraxacum officinale

Western Salsify Tragopogon dubius

Wingstem Crownbeard Verbesina alternifolia

Arkansas Ironweed Vernonia arkansana

Inland Ironweed Vernonia baldwinii ssp. interior

Common Cocklebur Xanthium strumarium

Azollaceae

Mexican Mosquito Fern Azolla mexicana

Balsaminaceae

Spotted Touch-me-not Impatiens capensis

Pale Touch-me-not Impatiens pallida

Berberidaceae

May-apple Podophyllum peltatum

Bignoniaceae

Trumpet Creeper Campsis radicans

Catalpa Catalpa speciosa

Boraginaceae

Pasture Heliotrope Heliotropium tenellum.

Corn Gromwell Lithospermum arvense

Hoary Gromwell Lithospermum canescens

Narrowleaf Gromwell Lithospermum incisum

Virginia Forget-me-not Myosotis verna

Western Marbleseed

Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale

Brassicaceae

Canada Rockcress Arabis canadensis

Winter Cress Barbarea vulgaris

Small-seeded False Flax Camelina microcarpa

Shepherd’s Purse Capsella bursa-pastoris

Toothwort Cardamine concatenata

Small-flowered Bittercress

 Cardamine parviflora var. arenicola

Blue Mustard Chorispora tenella

Tansy Mustard Descurainia pinnata var. brachycarpa

Shortpod Draba Draba brachycarpa

Wedgeleaf Draba Draba cuneifolia

Bushy Wallflower Erysimum repandum

Peppergrass Lepidium densiflorum

Veiny Pepperweed Lepidium oblongum

Spreading Bladderpod Lesquerella gracilis ssp. nuttallii

Stalkless Yellowcress Rorippa sessiliflora

Spreading Yellowcress Rorippa sinuata

Virginia Rockcress Sibara virginica

Wild Mustard Sinapis arvensis

Pennycress Thlaspi arvense

Thorowort Pennycress Thlaspi perfoliatum

Cactaceae

Prickly-pear Opuntia humifusa

Bigroot Prickly-pear Opuntia macrorhiza

Callitrichaceae Callitriche heterophylla

Campanulaceae

American Bellflower Campanula americana

Cardinal Flower Lobelia cardinalis

Indian Tobacco Lobelia inflata

Blue Lobelia Lobelia siphilitica

Palespike Lobelia Lobelia spicata

 Triodanis holzingeri

Slimpod Venus’ Looking Glass Triodanis leptocarpa

Venus’ Looking Glass Triodanis perfoliata

Cannabaceae

Japanese Hops Humulus japonicus

Capparaceae

Clammyweed Polanisia dodecandra ssp. trachysperma

Caprifoliaceae

Common Elderberry Sambucus canadensis

Buckbrush Symphoricarpos orbiculatus

Common Horsegentian

 Triosteum perfoliatum var. perfoliatum

Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum rufidulum
72 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Caryophyllaceae

Thyme-leaved Sandwort Arenaria serpyllifolia

Shortstalk Cerastium Cerastium brachypodum

Big Chickweed Cerastium fontanum ssp. vulgare

Deptford Pink Dianthus armeria

Jagged Chickweed Holosteum umbellatum

Canada nailwort Paronychia canadensis

Sleepy Catchfly Silene antirrhina

Starry Campion Silene stellata

Chickweed Stellaria media

Celastraceae

American Bittersweet Celastrus scandens

Wahoo Evonymus atropurpurea

Ceratophyliaceae

Common Hornwort Ceratophyllum demersum

Prickly Hornwort Ceratophyllum echinatum

Chenopodiaceae

Mexican Tea Chenopodium ambrosioides

Pitseed Goosefoot Chenopodium berlandieri var. zschackii

Missouri Goosefoot Chenopodium missouriense

Maple-leaved Goosefoot Chenopodium simplex

Standley’s Goosefoot Chenopodium standleyanum

Winged Pigweed Cycloloma atriplicifolium

Summer Cypress Kochia scoparia

Nuttall’s Povertweed Monolepis nuttalliana

Russian Thistle Salsola iberica

Clusiaceae

Nits-and-lice Hypericum drummondii

Common St. John’s-wort Hypericum perforatum

Round-fruit St. John’s-wort Hypericum sphaerocarpum

Commelinaceae

Creeping Dayflower Commelina diffusa

Narrowleaf Dayflower Commelina erecta var. angustifolia

Erect Dayflower Commelina erecta var. erecta

Bracted Spiderwort Tradescantia bracteata

Ohio Spiderwort Tradescantia ohiensis

Convolvulaceae

Macoun’s Bindweed Calystegia macounii

Hedge Bindweed Calystegia sepium var. angulata

Hedge Bindweed Calystegia silvatica ssp. fraterniflora

Field Bindweed Convolvulus arvensis

Red Morning-glory Ipomoea coccinea

Ivy-leaf Morning-glory Ipomoea hederacea

White Morning-glory Ipomoea lacunosa

Bigroot Morning-glory Ipomoea pandurata

Common Morning-glory Ipomoea purpurea

Shumard’s Morning-glory Ipomoea shumardiana

Cornaceae

Pale Dogwood Cornus amomum ssp. obliqua

Roughleaf Dogwood Cornus drummondii

Crassulaceae

Ditch Stonecrop Penthorum sedoides

Showy Stonecrop Sedum pulchellum

Cucurbitaceae

Buffalo Gourd Cucurbita foetidissima

Wild Cucumber Echinocystis lobata

Bur Cucumber Sicyos angulatus

Cupressaceae

Eastern Red-cedar Juniperus virginiana var. virginiana

Cuscutaceae

Hazel Dodder Cuscuta coryli

Cluster Dodder Cuscuta glomerata

Field Dodder Cuscuta pentagona var. pentagona

Cyperaceae

Yellowfruit Sedge Carex annectens var. annectens

Yellowfruit Sedge Carex annectens var. xanthocarpa

Southern Sedge Carex austrina

Bicknell’s Sedge Carex bicknellii var. bicknellii

Woodland Sedge Carex blanda

Straw Sedge Carex brevior

Bush’s Sedge Carex bushii

Crowfoot Sedge Carex crus-corvi

Frank’s Sedge Carex frankii

Heavy Sedge Carex gravida

Heavy Sedge Carex gravida var. gravida

Eastern Narrowleaf Sedge Carex grisea

Bottlebrush Sedge Carex hystericina.

Sun Sedge Carex inops ssp. heliophila

Mead’s Sedge Carex meadii

Littletooth Sedge Carex microdonta

Woolly Sedge Carex pellita

Fox Sedge Carex vulpinoidea

Tapeleaf Sedge Cyperus acuminatus

Globe Flatsedge Cyperus echinatus

Redroot Flatsedge Cyperus erythrorhizos

Yellow Nutsedge Cyperus esculentus

Great Plains Flatsedge Cyperus lupulinus

Slender Flatsedge Cyperus odoratus

Lean Flatsedge Cyperus setigerus

Awned Flatsedge Cyperus squarrosus

False Nutsedge Cyperus strigosus

Flatstem Spikesedge Eleocharis compressa

Longstem Spikesedge Eleocharis macrostachya.

Blunt Spikesedge Eleocharis obtusa var. detonsa

Blunt Spikesedge Eleocharis obtusa var. obtusa

Squarestem Spikesedge Eleocharis quadrangulata

Small’s Spikesedge Eleocharis smallii

Eleocharis xyridiformis

Slender Fimbristylis Fimbristylis autumnalis

Hairy Fimbristylis Fimbristylis puberula var. puberula

Harvey’s Beakrush Rhynchospora harveyi

Bigstem Beakrush Rhynchospora macrostachya

Hardstem Bulrush Schoenoplectus acutus var. acutus

Slender Bulrush Schoenoplectus heterochaetus

Softstem Bulrush

 Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani ssp. validus

Green Bulrush Scirpus atrovirens

Pale Bulrush Scirpus pallidus

Rusty Bulrush Scirpus pendulus

Fringed Razorsedge Scleria ciliata var. ciliata

Fewflower Nutrush Scleria pauciflora var. pauciflora

Whip Razorsedge Scleria triglomerata

Dipsacaceae

Fuller’s Teasel Dipsacus fullonum

Dryopteridaceae

Mackay’s Brittle Fern Cystopteris tenuis

Marginal Wood Fern Dryopteris marginalis

Equisetaceae

Smooth Scouring Rush Equisetum laevigatum
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 73

Euphorbiaceae

Slender Threeseed Mercury Acalypha monococca

Rough-pod Copperleaf Acalypha ostryifolia

Rhombic Copperleaf Acalypha rhomboidea

Virginia Copperleaf Acalypha virginica

Spotted Spurge Chamaesyce maculata

Prairie Sandmat Chamaesyce missurica var. intermedia

Eyebane Chamaesyce nutans

Prostrate Spurge Chamaesyce prostrata

Round-leaved Spurge Chamaesyce serpens

Mat Spurge Chamaesyce stictospora

Woolly Croton Croton capitatus var. capitatus

Tropic Croton Croton glandulosus var. septentrionalis

One-seeded Croton Croton monanthogynus

Flowering Spurge Euphorbia corollata

Painted Spurge Euphorbia cyathophora

 Euphorbia davidii

Toothed Spurge Euphorbia dentata

Six-angled Spurge Euphorbia hexagona

Snow-on-the-mountain Euphorbia marginata

Warty Spurge Euphorbia spathulata

Nettleleaf Noseburn Tragia betonicifolia

Stalked Noseburn Tragia ramosa

Fabaceae

Lead Plant Amorpha canescens

False Indigo Amorpha fruticosa

Hog Peanut Amphicarpaea bracteata

American Potato Bean Apios americana Medik

Common Ground-plum

 Astragalus crassicarpus var. crassicarpus

Ozark Milk-vetch Astragalus distortus var. distortus

Platte River Milk-vetch Astragalus plattensis

White Wild Indigo Baptisia alba var. macrophylla

Blue False Indigo Baptisia australis var. minor

Plains Wild Indigo Baptisia bracteata var. leucophaea

Redbud Cercis canadensis

Showy Partridge Pea Chamaecrista fasciculata

Sensitive Partridge Pea

 Chamaecrista nictitans ssp. nictitans var. nictitans

Crown Vetch Coronilla varia

Rattlebox Crotalaria sagittalis

White Prairie-clover Dalea candida var. candida

Roundhead Prairie-clover Dalea multiflora

Purple Prairie-clover Dalea purpurea var. purpurea

Illinois Bundleflower Desmanthus illinoensis

Canada Tickclover Desmodium canadense

Hoary Tickclover Desmodium canescens

Large-flowered Tickclover Desmodium glutinosum

Illinois Tickclover Desmodium illinoense

 Desmodium perplexum

Sessile-leaf Tickclover Desmodium sessilifolium

Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos

Wild Licorice Glycyrrhiza lepidota

Kentucky Coffee-tree Gymnocladus dioicus

Korean Clover Kummerowia stipulacea

Everlasting Pea Lathyrus latifolius

Round-head Lespedeza Lespedeza capitata

Sericea Lespedeza Lespedeza cuneata

Prairie Lespedeza Lespedeza violacea

Black Medick Medicago lupulina

Alfalfa Medicago sativa ssp. sativa

White Sweet Clover Melilotus albus

Yellow Sweet Clover Melilotus officinalis

Catclaw Sensitive Brier

 Mimosa quadrivalvis var. nuttallii Barneby

Silverleaf Scurfpea Pediomelum argophyllum

Prairie Turnip Pediomelum esculentum

Many-flowered Scurfpea Psoralidium tenuiflorum.

Bristly Locust Robinia hispida

Black Locust Robinia pseudoacacia

Maryland Senna Senna marilandica

Wild Bean Strophostyles helvula

Slick-seed Bean Strophostyles leiosperma

Goat’s Rue Tephrosia virginiana

Low Hop Clover Trifolium campestre

Alsike Clover Trifolium hybridum

Alsike Clover Trifolium hybridum ssp. elegans

Red Clover Trifolium pratense

White Clover Trifolium repens

Hairy Vetch Vicia villosa var. villosa

Fagaceae

Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa

Chinquapin Oak Quercus muehlenbergii Engelm

Red Oak Quercus rubra

Shumard’s Oak Quercus shumardii

Black Oak Quercus velutina

Fumariaceae

Slender Fumewort Corydalis micrantha ssp. micrantha

Dutchman’s Breeches Dicentra cucullaria

Gentianaceae

Downy Gentian Gentiana puberulenta

Geraniaceae

Filaree Erodium cicutarium

Carolina Cranesbill Geranium carolinianum

Small Cranesbill Geranium pusillum

Grossulariaceae

Missouri Gooseberry Ribes missouriense

Haloragaceae

Green Parrot’s Feather Myriophyllum pinnatum

Hippocastanaceae

Western Buckeye Aesculus glabra var. arguta

Hydrophyllaceae

Waterpod Ellisia nyctelea

Virginia Waterleaf Hydrophyllum virginianum

Iridaceae

Prairie Blue-eyed Grass Sisyrinchium campestre

Juglandaceae

Bitternut Hickory Carya cordiformis

Pecan Carya illinoinensis

Kingnut Hickory Carya laciniosa

Shagbark Hickory Carya ovata

Mockernut Hickory Carya tomentosa

Black Walnut Juglans nigra

Juncaceae

Dudley’s Rush Juncus dudleyi

Inland Rush Juncus interior

Shore Rush Juncus marginatus

Torrey’s Rush Juncus torreyi
74 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Lamiaceae

Catnip Giant Hyssop Agastache nepetoides

Rough False Pennyroyal Hedeoma hispida

American False Pennyroyal Hedeoma pulegioides

Henbit Lamium amplexicaule

Deadnettle Lamium purpureum

American Bugleweed Lycopus americanus

Common Horehound Marrubium vulgare

Field Mint Mentha arvensis

Lemon Beebalm Monarda citriodora

Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa var. fistulosa

Catnip Nepeta cataria

False Dragonhead Physostegia angustifolia

Self-heal Prunella vulgaris

Slender Mountain Mint Pycnanthemum tenuifolium

Blue Sage Salvia azurea

Lanceleaf Sage Salvia reflexa

Sideflower Skullcap Scutellaria lateriflora

Leonard’s Small Skullcap

 Scutellaria parvula var. leonardii

Slenderleaf Betony Stachys tenuifolia

American Germander Teucrium canadense var. canadense

Northern Germander Teucrium canadense var. occidentale

False Pennyroyal Trichostema brachiatum

Lemnaceae

 Lemna aequinoctialis

Lesser Duckweed Lemna minor

Minute Duckweed Lemna perpusilla

Greater Duckweed Spirodela polyrrhiza

Lentibulariaceae

Common Bladderwort Utricularia macrorhiza

Liliaceae

Canada Wild Onion Allium canadense var. canadense

Lavender Wild Onion Allium canadense var. lavandulare

Wild Onion Allium sativum

Pink Wild Onion Allium stellatum

Field Garlic Allium vineale

Asparagus Asparagus officinalis

Wild Hyacinth Camassia angusta

Wild Hyacinth Camassia scilloides

White Dogtooth Violet Erythronium albidum

Prairie Dogtooth Violet Erythronium mesochoreum

Day Lily Hemerocallis fulva

Yellow Star Grass Hypoxis hirsuta

Michigan Lily Lilium canadense ssp. michiganense

Feathery False Solomon’s Seal Maianthemum racemosum

False Garlic Nothoscordum bivalve

Solomon’s Seal Polygonatum biflorum

Nuttall’s Death Camas Zigadenus nuttallii

Linaceae

Grooved Flax Linum sulcatum

Loasaceae

Stickleaf Mentzelia Mentzelia oligosperma

Lythraceae

E arleaf Ammannia Ammannia auriculata

Red Ammannia Ammannia coccinea

Winged Loosestrife Lythrum alatum

California Loosestrife Lythrum californicum

Rotala Rotala ramosior

Malvaceae

Velvet-leaf Abutilon theophrasti

Pale Poppy Mallow Callirhoe alcaeoides

Purple Poppy Mallow Callirhoe involucrata

Flower-of-an-hour Hibiscus trionum

Hairy False Mallow Malvastrum hispidum

Prickly Sida Sida spinosa

Menispermaceae

Moonseed Menispermum canadense

Carolina Snailseed Cocculus carolinus

Molluginaceae

Carpetweed Mollugo verticillata

Monotropaceae

Indian Pipe Monotropa uniflora

Moraceae

Osage Orange Maclura pomifera

White Mulberry Morus alba

Red Mulberry Morus rubra

Najadaceae

Southern Naiad Najas guadalupensis

Nelumbonacea

American Lotus Nelumbo lutea

Nyctaginaceae

White Four-o’clock Mirabilis albida

Narrowleaf Four-o’clock Mirabilis linearis

Wild Four-o’clock Mirabilis nyctaginea

Oleaceae

Green Ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica var. subintegerrima

Onagraceae

Plains Yellow Evening Primrose Calylophus serrulatus

Enchanter’s Nightshade Circaea lutetiana ssp. canadensis

Biennial Gaura Gaura longiflora

Velvety Gaura Gaura parviflora

Bush Seedbox Ludwigia alternifolia var. pubescens

Water Purslane Ludwigia palustris

Marsh Seedbox Ludwigia peploides ssp. glabrescens

Many-seeded Seedbox Ludwigia polycarpa

Cutleaf Evening Primrose Oenothera laciniata

Narrow-leaved Evening Primrose Oenothera linifolia

Missouri Evening Primrose

 Oenothera macrocarpa ssp. macrocarpa

White Evening Primrose Oenothera speciosa

Common Evening Primrose Oenothera villosa ssp. villosa

Stenosiphon Stenosiphon linifolius

Ophloglossaceae

Dissected Grape Fern Botrychium dissectum

Rattlesnake Fern Botrychium virginianum

Limestone Adder’s-tongue Ophioglossum engelmannii

Orchidaceae

Putty Root Aplectrum hyemale

Late Coralroot Corallorrhiza odontorhiza

Western Prairie Fringed Orchid Platanthera praeclara

Nodding Ladies’-tresses Spiranthes cernua

Slender Ladies’-tresses Spiranthes lacera

Great Plains Ladies’-tresses Spiranthes magnicamporum

Little Ladies’-tresses Spiranthes tuberosa

Upland Ladies’-tresses Spiranthes vernalis
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 75

Oxalidaceae

Green Wood Sorrel Oxalis dillenii

Common Wood Sorrel Oxalis stricta

Violet Wood Sorrel Oxalis violacea

Phytolaccaceae

Pokeweed Phytolacca americana var. americana

Plantaginaceae

Bottlebrush Plantain Plantago aristata

English Plantain Plantago lanceolata

Tiny Plantain Plantago pusilla

Red-seeded Plantain Plantago rhodosperma

Rugel’s Plantain Plantago rugelii

Pale-seeded Plantain Plantago virginica

Platanaceae

Sycamore Platanus occidentalis

Poaceae

Jointed Goatgrass Aegilops cylindrica

Jointed Goatgrass

Aegilops cylindrica x Triticum aestivum

Awned Bentgrass Agrostis elliottiana

Winter Bentgrass Agrostis hyemalis var. hyemalis

Autumn Bentgrass Agrostis perennans

Redtop Agrostis stolonifera

Carolina Foxtail Alopecurus carolinianus

Big Bluestem Andropogon gerardii

Broomsedge Bluestem Andropogon virginicus

Slimspike Threeawn Aristida longespica var. geniculata

Slimspike Threeawn Aristida longespica var. longespica

Prairie Threeawn Aristida oligantha

Caucasian Bluestem Bothriochloa bladhii

Silver Bluestem Bothriochloa laguroides ssp. torreyana

Side-oats Grama Bouteloua curtipendula

Hairy Grama Bouteloua hirsuta

Hairy Chess Bromus commutatus

Smooth Brome Bromus inermis ssp. inermis

Japanese Brome Bromus japonicus

Canada Brome Bromus pubescens

Rye Brome Bromus secalinus

Downy Brome Bromus tectorum

Buffalograss Buchloe dactyloides

Longspine Sandbur Cenchrus longispinus

Sea Oats Chasmanthium latifolium

Windmillgrass Chloris verticillata

Stout Woodreed Cinna arundinacea

Bermudagrass Cynodon dactylon

Orchardgrass Dactylis glomerata

American Beakgrass Diarrhena americana

American Beakgrass Diarrhena obovata

Pointed Dichanthelium

 Dichanthelium acuminatum var. implicatum

Hairy Dichanthelium

 Dichanthelium acuminatum var. villosum

Slimleaf Dichanthelium Dichanthelium linearifolium

Scribner’s Dichanthelium

 Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum

Roundseed Dichanthelium Dichanthelium sphaerocarpon

Southern Crabgrass Digitaria ciliaris

Fall Witchgrass Digitaria cognata var. cognata

Smooth Crabgrass Digitaria ischaemum

Hairy Crabgrass Digitaria sanguinalis

Jungle-rice Echinochloa colona

Common Barnyardgrass

 Echinochloa crus-galli var. crus-galli

Prickly Barnyardgrass

 Echinochloa muricata var. muricata

Goosegrass Eleusine indica

Canada Wildrye Elymus canadensis

Bottlebrushgrass Elymus hystrix

Hairy Wildrye Elymus villosus

Virginia Wildrye Elymus virginicus var. jejunus

Virginia Wildrye Elymus virginicus var. virginicus

Stinkgrass Eragrostis cilianensis

Carolina Lovegrass Eragrostis pectinacea var. miserrima

Carolina Lovegrass Eragrostis pectinacea var. pectinacea

Purple Lovegrass Eragrostis spectabilis

Prairie Cupgrass Eriochloa contracta

Tall Fescue Festuca arundinacea

Fowl Mannagrass Glyceria striata

Foxtail Barley Hordeum jubatum

Little Barley Hordeum pusillum

Junegrass Koeleria macrantha

Rice Cutgrass Leersia oryzoides

Whitegrass Leersia virginica

Bearded Sprangletop Leptochloa fascicularis

Red Sprangletop Leptochloa mucronata

Perennial Ryegrass Lolium perenne var. perenne

Bush’s Muhly Muhlenbergia bushii

Wirestem Muhly Muhlenbergia frondosa

Nimblewill Muhlenbergia schreberi

Rock Muhly Muhlenbergia sobolifera

Forest Muhly Muhlenbergia sylvatica

Creeping Lovegrass Neeragrostis reptans

Common Witchgrass Panicum capillare var. brevifolium

Common Witchgrass Panicum capillare var. capillare

Fall Panicum Panicum dichotomiflorum

Switchgrass Panicum virgatum

Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum smithii

Florida Paspalum Paspalum floridanum var. glabratum

Smoothseed Paspalum Paspalum pubiflorum var. glabrum

Thin Paspalum Paspalum setaceum var. muhlenbergii

Thin Paspalum Paspalum setaceum var. stramineum

Reed Canarygrass Phalaris arundinacea

Carolina Canarygrass Phalaris caroliniana

Timothy Phleum pratense

Annual Bluegrass Poa annua

Canada Bluegrass Poa compressa

Kentucky Bluegrass Poa pratensis

Tumblegrass Schedonnardus paniculatus

Little Bluestem Schizachyrium scoparium

Hardgrass Sclerochloa dura

Chinese Foxtail Setaria faberi

Knotroot Bristlegrass Setaria parviflora

Yellow Foxtail Setaria pumila

Green Foxtail Setaria viridis

Indiangrass Sorghastrum nutans

Johnsongrass Sorghum halepense

Prairie Cordgrass Spartina pectinata

Prairie Wedgegrass Sphenopholis obtusata var. obtusata

Rough Dropseed Sporobolus asper var. asper

Drummond’s Dropseed Sporobolus asper var. drummondii

Sand Dropseed Sporobolus cryptandrus

Puffsheath Dropseed Sporobolus neglectus

Whorled Dropseed Sporobolus pyramidatus

Povertygrass Sporobolus vaginiflorus

Porcupinegrass Stipa spartea

Purpletop Tridens flavus

Eastern Gramagrass

 Tripsacum dactyloides var. dactyloides

Sixweeks Fescue Vulpia octoflora

Polemoniaceae

Sweet William Phlox Phlox divaricata ssp. laphamii

Downy Phlox Phlox pilosa ssp. fulgida

Polygalaceae

Slender Milkwort Polygala incarnata

Blood Milkwort Polygala sanguinea

Whorled Milkwort Polygala verticillata
76 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Polygonaceae

Swamp Smartweed Polygonum amphibium var. emersum

Prostrate Knotweed Polygonum arenastrum

Longstyle Smartweed Polygonum bicorne

Wild Buckwheat Polygonum convolvulus

Mild Water-pepper Smartweed

 Polygonum hydropiperoides

Pale Smartweed Polygonum lapathifolium

Pennsylvania Smartweed Polygonum pensylvanicum

Lady’s-thumb Smartweed Polygonum persicaria

Dotted Smartweed Polygonum punctatum

Bush Knotweed Polygonum ramosissimum

Climbing False Buckwheat Polygonum scandens

Slender Knowtweed Polygonum tenue

Virginia Knotweed Polygonum virginianum

Sheep Sorrel Rumex acetosella

Pale Dock Rumex altissimus

Curly Dock Rumex crispus

Pontederiaceae

Bouquet Mudplantain Heteranthera multiflora

Common Pickerelweed Pontederia cordata

Portulaceae

Virginia Spring Beauty Claytonia virginica

Common Purslane Portulaca oleracea

Hairy Purslane Portulaca pilosa

Rockpink Fameflower Talinum calycinum

Prairie Fameflower Talinum parviflorum

Potamogetonaceae

 Coleogeton pectinatus

Waterthread Pondweed Potamogeton diversifolius

Leafy Pondweed Potamogeton foliosus

Longleaf Pondweed Potamogeton nodosus

Baby Pondweed Potamogeton pusillus ssp. pusillus

Primulaceae

Scarlet Pimpernel Anagallis arvensis

Western Rock Jasmine Androsace occidentalis

Ranunculaceae

Carolina Anemone Anemone caroliniana

Rue Anemone Anemonella thalictroides

Canada Columbine Aquilegia canadensis

Pitcher’s Clematis Clematis pitcheri

Rocket Larkspur Consolida ajacis

Plains Larkspur Delphinium carolinianum ssp. virescens

Mousetail Myosurus minimus

Littleleaf Buttercup Ranunculus abortivus

Rhamnaceae

New Jersey Tea Ceanothus americanus

Inland New Jersey Tea Ceanothus herbaceus

Smooth Lanceleaf Buckthorn

 Rhamnus lanceolata var. glabrata

Rosaceae

Woodland Agrimony Agrimonia rostellata

Summer Hawthorn Crataegus mollis

Wild Strawberry Fragaria virginiana

White Avens Geum canadense

Sulphur Cinquefoil Potentilla recta

Old-field Cinquefoil Potentilla simplex

Wild Plum Prunus americana

Mahaleb Plum Prunus mahaleb

Mexican Plum Prunus mexicana

Black Cherry Prunus serotina

 Rosa X rudiuscula

Prairie Wild Rose Rosa arkansana

Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora

Northern Dewberry Rubus flagellaris

Black Raspberry Rubus occidentalis

Highbush Blackberry Rubus ostryifolius

Rubiaceae

Buttonbush Cephalanthus occidentalis

Rough Buttonweed Diodia teres

Catchweed Bedstraw Galium aparine

Woods Bedstraw Galium circaezans

Bluntleaf Bedstraw Galium obtusum

Piedmont Bedstraw Galium pedemontanum.

Fragrant Bedstraw Galium triflorum

Narrowleaf Bluets Hedyotis nigricans var. nigricans

Small Bluets Houstonia pusilla

Rutaceae

Common Prickly Ash Zanthoxylum americanum

Salicaceae

Silver Poplar Populus alba

Plains Cottonwood Populus deltoides ssp. monilifera

Peach-leaved Willow Salix amygdaloides

Carolina Willow Salix caroliniana

Interior Sandbar Willow Salix exigua ssp. interior

Dwarf Prairie Willow Salix humilis var. humilis

Black Willow Salix nigra

Santalaceae

Bastard Toadflax Comandra umbellata ssp. umbellata

Sapinidaceae

Soapberry Sapindus saponaria var. drummondii

Sapotaceae

Woolly Buckthorn Bumelia lanuginosa var. oblongifolia

Scrophulariaceae

Rough Agalinis Agalinis aspera

Gattinger’s Purple False Foxglove Agalinis gattingeri

Roundleaf Water Hyssop Bacopa rotundifolia

Blue Hearts Buchnera americana

Dwarf Snapdragon Chaenorrhinum minus

Golden Hedge Hyssop Gratiola neglecta

Paleseed Leucospora multifida

Yellow False Pimpernel Lindernia dubia

Sharpwing Monkeyflower Mimulus alatus

Texas Toadflax Nuttallanthus texanus

Wood Betony Pedicularis canadensis

Cobaea Beardtongue Penstemon cobaea var. cobaea

Smooth Beardtongue Penstemon digitalis

Tube Beardtongue Penstemon tubiflorus

Earleaf Foxglove Tomanthera auriculata

Fineleaf Foxglove Tomanthera densiflora

Moth Mullein Verbascum blattaria

Woolly Mullein Verbascum thapsus

Water Speedwell Veronica anagallis-aquatica

Corn Speedwell Veronica arvensis

Purslane Speedwell Veronica peregrina var. peregrina

Wayside Speedwell Veronica polita

Selaginellaceae

Rock Spike-moss Selaginella rupestris

Simaroubaceae

Tree-of-heaven Ailanthus altissima

Smilacaceae

Carrion Flower Smilax ecirrata

Carrion Flower Smilax herbacea var. lasioneur

Bristly Greenbrier Smilax hispida
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 77

Solanaceae

Jimsonweed Datura stramonium

Clammy Groundcherry Physalis heterophylla

Common Groundcherry Physalis longifolia var. longifolia

Longleaf Grouncherry Physalis longifolia var. subglabrata

Hairy Groundcherry Physalis pumila ssp. pumila

Carolina Horse Nettle Solanum carolinense

Black Nightshade Solanum ptychanthum

Buffalo Bur Solanum rostratum

Sparganiaceae

Giant Bur-reed Sparganium eurycarpum

Staphyleaceae

American Bladdernut Staphylea trifolia

Tiliaceae

American Basswood Tilia americana

Typhaceae

Narrow-Leaved cattail Typha angustifolia

Southern Cattail Typha domingensis

Common Cattail Typha latifolia

Ulmaceae

Common Hackberry Celtis occidentalis

Dwarf Hackberry Celtis tenuifolia

American Elm Ulmus americana

Elm Ulmus pumila

Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra

Urticaceae

Bog Hemp Boehmeria cylindrica

Wood Nettle Laportea canadensis

Pennsylvania Pellitory Parietaria pensylvanica

Clearweed Pilea pumila

Stinging Nettle Urtica dioica ssp. gracilis

Valerianaceae

Corn Salad Valerianella radiata

Verbenaceae

Lopseed Phryma leptostachya

Lanceleaf Frogfruit Phyla lanceolata

 Verbena X moechina

Prostrate Verbena Verbena bracteata

Canada Verbena Verbena canadensis

Blue Verbena Verbena hastata

Narrowleaf Verbena Verbena simplex

Woolly Verbena Verbena stricta

White Verbena Verbena urticifolia

Violaceae

Bird’s-foot Violet Viola pedata

Prairie Violet Viola pedatifida

Downy Yellow Violet Viola pubescens

Johnny-jump-up Viola rafinesquii

Downy Blue Violet Viola sororia

Vitaceae

Raccoon Grape Ampelopsis cordata

Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia

Graybark Grape Vitis cinerea

Riverbank Grape Vitis riparia

Zygophyllaceae

Puncture Vine Tribulus terrestris
78 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Appendix B.

Flint Hills NWR

Fish List

Fish of Lyon and Coffey Counties, Kansas

Provided by the Kansas Biological Survey, University

of Kansas, Natural Heritage Inventory

Lepisosteidae

Longnose Gar Lepisosteus osseus

Shortnose Gar Lepisosteus platostomus

Clupeidae

Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum

Cyprinidae

Central Stoneroller Campostoma anomalum

Goldfish Carassius auratus

Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella

Common Carp Cyprinus carpio

Redspot Chub Nocomis asper

Hornyhead Chub Nocomis biguttatus

Golden Shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas

Ghost Shiner Notropis buchanani

Rosyface Shiner Notropis rubellus

Sand Shiner Notropis stramineus

Mimic Shiner Notropis volucellus

Suckermouth Minnow Phenacobius mirabilis

Bluntnose Minnow Pimephales notatus

Fathead Minnow Pimephales promelas

Slim Minnow Pimephales tenellus

Bullhead Minnow Pimephales vigilax

Creek Chub Semotilus atromaculatus

Bluntface Shiner Cyprinella camura

Red Shiner Cyprinella lutrensis

Gravel Chub Erimystax X-punctatus

Cardinal Shiner Luxilus cardinalis

Redfin Shiner Lythrurus umbratilis

Catostomidae

River Carpsucker Carpiodes carpio

White Sucker Catostomus commersoni

Blue Sucker Cycleptus elongatus

Smallmouth Buffalo Ictiobus bubalus

Bigmouth Buffalo Ictiobus cyprinellus

Black Buffalo Ictiobus niger

Spotted Sucker Minytrema melanops

Golden Redhorse Moxostoma erythrurum

Shorthead Redhorse Moxostoma macrolepidotum

Ictaluridae

Blue Catfish Ictalurus furcatus

Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus

Stonecat Noturus flavus

Tadpole Madtom Noturus gyrinus

Brindled Madtom Noturus miurus

Freckled Madtom Noturus nocturnus

Slender Madtom Noturus exilis

Neosho Madtom Noturus placides

Flathead Catfish Pylodictis olivaris

Black Bullhead Ameiurus melas

Yellow Bullhead Ameiurus natalis

Cyprinodontidae

Blackstripe Topminnow Fundulus notatus

Poeciliidae

Western Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis

Atherinidae

Brook Silverside Labidesthes sicculus

Percichthyidae

White Bass Morone chrysops

Striped Bass Morone saxatilis

Centrarchidae

Green Sunfish Lepomis cyanellus

Orangespotted Sunfish Lepomis humilis

Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus

Longear Sunfish Lepomis megalotis

Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu

Spotted Bass Micropterus punctulatus

Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides

White Crappie Pomoxis annularis

Black Crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus

Percidae

Fantail Darter Etheostoma flabellare

Johnny Darter Etheostoma nigrum

Orangethroat Darter Etheostoma spectabile

Yellow Perch Perca flavescens

Logperch Percina caprodes

Channel Darter Percina copelandi

Slenderhead Darter Percina phoxocephala

Walleye Stizostedion vitreum

Sciaenidae

Freshwater Drum Aplodinotus grunniens
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 79

Appendix C.

Flint Hills NWR

Amphibian and

Reptile List

Amphibians and Reptiles of Lyon and Coffey

Counties, Kansas

Provided by the Kansas Biological Survey, University

of Kansas, Natural Heritage Inventory

Amphibians

Salamanders

Smallmouth Salamander Ambystoma texanum

Tiger Salamander Ambystoma tigrinum

Mudpuppy Necturus maculosus

Frogs

Cope’s Gray Tree Frog Hyla crysoscelis

Gray Tree Frog Hyla versicolor

Crawfish Frog Rana areolata

Plains Leopard Frog Rana blairi

Bullfrog Rana catesbeiana

Southern Leopard Frog Rana spenocephala

Blanchard’s Cricket Frog Acris crepitans blanchardi

Western Chorus Frog Pseudoacris triseriata

Toads

Woodhouse’s Toad Bufo woodhousei

American Toad Bufo americanus

Great Plains Narrow Mouthed Toad

 Gastrophyrene olivacea

Reptiles

Turtles

Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina

Alligator Snapping Turtle Macrickenys temminckii

Common Map Turtle Graptemys geographica

False Map Turtle Graptemys pseudogeographica

Ouachita Map Turtle Graptemys ouachitensis

River Cooter Pseudemys concinna

Slider Trachemys scripta

Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina

Western Box Turtle Terrapene ornata

Smooth Softshell Apalone mutica

Spiny Softshell Apalone spinifera

Lizards

Slender Glass Lizard Ophisaurus attenuatus

Collared Lizard Crotaphytus collaris

Lesser Earless Lizard Holbrookia maculata

Texas Horned Lizard Phrynosoma cornutum

Coal Skink Eumeces anthracinus

Five-lined Skink Eumeces fasciatus

Prairie Skink Eumeces septentrionalis

Great Plains Skink Eumeces obsoletus

Ground Skink Scincella lateralis

Six-lined Racerunner Cnemidophorus sexlineatus

Snakes

Worm Snake Carphophis amoenus

Racer Coluber constrictor

Ringneck Snake Diadophis punctatus

Corn Snake Elaphe guttata

Rat Snake Elaphe obsoleta

Eastern Hognose Snake Heterodon platirhinos

Prairie Kingsnake Lampropeltis calligaster

Common Kingsnake Lampropeltis getula

Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum

Plainbelly Water Snake Nerodia erythrogaster

Diamondback Water Snake Nerodia rhombifer

Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon

Pine or Gopher Snake Pituophis catenifer

Graham’s Crayfish Snake Regina grahamii

Brown Snake Storeria dekayi

Flathead Snake Tantilla gracilis

Western Ribbon Snake Thamnophis proximus

Plains Garter Snake Thamnophis radix

Common Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis

Lined Snake Tropidoclonion lineatum

Copperhead Agkistrodon contortrix

Timber Rattlesnake Crotalus horridus

Massasauga Sistrurus catenatus
80 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Appendix D.

Flint Hills NWR

Wild Bird Species List

(Order follows the A.O.U. Check-list of North American

Birds, 7th ed. 1998)

Grebes

Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps

Horned Grebe Podiceps auritus

Eared Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

Western Grebe Aechmophorus occidentalis

Pelicans

American White Pelican Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

Cormorants

Double-crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus

Bitterns, Herons, and Egrets

American Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus

Least Bittern Ixobrychus exilis

Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias

Great Egret Ardea alba

Snowy Egret Egretta thula

Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis

Green Heron Butorides virescens

Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron Nyctanassa violaceus

Ibises and Spoonbills

White-faced Ibis Plegadis chihi

New World Vultures

Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura

Swans, Geese, and Ducks

Greater White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons

Snow Goose Chen caerulescens

Ross’ Goose Chen rossii

Canada Goose Branta canadensis

Wood Duck Aix sponsa

Gadwall Anas strepera

Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope

American Wigeon Anas americana

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Blue-winged Teal Anas discors

Cinnamon Teal Anas cyanoptera

Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata

Northern Pintail Anas acuta

Green-winged Teal Anas crecca

Canvasback Aythya valisineria

Redhead Aythya americana

Ring-necked Duck Aythya collaris

Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis

Oldsquaw Clangula hyemalis

Bufflehead Bucephala albeola

Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula

Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus

Common Merganser Mergus merganser

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis

Osprey, Kites, Hawks, and Eagles

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus

Mississippi Kite Ictinia mississippiensis

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus

Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipiter striatus

Cooper’s Hawk Accipiter cooperii

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis

Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus

Broad-winged Hawk Buteo platypterus

Swainson’s Hawk Buteo swainsoni

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis

Ferruginous Hawk Buteo regalis

Rough-legged Hawk Buteo lagopus

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos

Falcons and Caracaras

American Kestrel Falco sparverius

Merlin Falco columbarius

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

Prairie Falcon Falco mexicanus

Gallinaceous Birds

Ring-necked Pheasant Introduced Phasianus colchicus

Greater Prairie-Chicken Tympanuchus cupido

Wild Turkey Meleagris gallopavo

Northern Bobwhite Colinus virginianus

Rails

King Rail Rallus elegans

Virginia Rail Rallus limicola

Sora Porzana carolina

Purple Gallinule Porphyrula martinica

Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

American Coot Fulica americana

Cranes

Sandhill Crane Grus canadensis

Plovers

Black-bellied Plover Pluvialis squatarola

American Golden-Plover Pluvialis dominica

Snowy Plover Charadrius alexandrinus

Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus

Piping Plover Charadrius melodus

Killdeer Charadrius vociferus

Stilts and Avocets

American Avocet Recurvirostra americana

Sandpipers and Phalaropes

Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes

Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria

Willet Catoptrophorus semipalmatus

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia

Long-billed Curlew Numenius americanus

Hudsonian Godwit Limosa haemastica

Marbled Godwit Limosa fedoa

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres

Sanderling Calidris alba

Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri

Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla

White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis

Baird’s Sandpiper Calidris bairdii

Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos

Dunlin Calidris alpina

Stilt Sandpiper Calidris himantopus

Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus

Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago

American Woodcock Scolopax minor

Wilson’s Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 81

Skuas, Jaegers, Gulls, and Terns

Parasitic Jaeger Stercorarius pomarinus

Franklin’s Gull Larus pipixcan

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus

Bonaparte’s Gull Larus philadelphia

Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis

Herring Gull Larus argentatus

Glaucus Gull Larus hyperboreus

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus

Black-legged Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia

Common Tern Sterna hirundo

Forster’s Tern Sterna forsteri

Least Tern Sterna antillarum

Black Tern Chlidonias niger

Pigeons and Doves

Rock Dove Introduced Columba livia

Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura

Cuckoos and Anis

Black-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus erythropthalmus

Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus

Barn Owls

Barn Owl Tyto alba

Typical Owls

Eastern Screech-Owl Otus asio

Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus

Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia

Barred Owl Strix varia

Long-eared Owl Asio otus

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus

Northern Saw-whet Owl Aegolius acadicus

Nightjars

Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor

Chuck-will’s-widow Caprimulgus carolinensis

Whip-poor-will Caprimulgus vociferus

Swifts

Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica

Hummingbirds

Ruby-throated Hummingbird Archilochus colubris

Kingfishers

Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon

Woodpeckers

Red-headed Woodpecker Melanerpes erythrocephalus

Red-bellied Woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Sphyrapicus varius

Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens

Hairy Woodpecker Picoides villosus

Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus

Pileated Woodpecker Dryocopus pileatus

Tyrant Flycatchers

Olive-sided Flycatcher Contopus cooperi

Eastern Wood-Pewee Contopus virens

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher Empidonax flaviventris

Acadian Flycatcher Empidonax virescens

Alder Flycatcher Empidonax alnorum

Willow Flycatcher Empidonax traillii

Least Flycatcher Empidonax minimus

Gray Flycatcher Empidonax wrightii

Eastern Phoebe Sayornis phoebe

Say’s Phoebe Sayornis saya

Dusty-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer

Ash-throated Flycatcher Myiarchus cinerascens

Great Crested Flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus

Western Kingbird Tyrannus verticalis

Eastern Kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus forficatus

Shrikes

Loggerhead Shrike Lanius ludovicianus

Northern Shrike Lanius excubitor

Vireos

White-eyed Vireo Vireo griseus

Bell’s Vireo Vireo bellii

Yellow-throated Vireo Vireo flavifrons

Blue-headed Vireo Vireo solitarius

Warbling Vireo Vireo gilvus

Philadelphia Vireo Vireo philadelphicus

Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus

Crows, Jays, and Magpies

Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata

American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos

Larks

Horned Lark Eremophila alpestris

Swallows

Purple Martin Progne subis

Tree Swallow Tachycineta bicolor

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

 Stelgidopteryx serripennis

Bank Swallow Riparia riparia

Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica

Titmice and Chickadees

Tufted Titmouse Baeolophus bicolor

Bushtits

Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus

Nuthatches

Red-breasted Nuthatch Sitta canadensis

White-breasted Nuthatch Sitta carolinensis

Creepers

Brown Creeper Certhia americana

Wrens

Rock Wren Salpinctes obsoletus

Carolina Wren Thryothorus ludovicianus

Bewick’s Wren Thryomanes bewickii

House Wren Troglodytes aedon

Winter Wren Troglodytes troglodytes

Sedge Wren Cistothorus platensis

Marsh Wren Cistothorus palustris

Kinglets

Golden-crowned Kinglet Regulus satrapa

Ruby-crowned Kinglet Regulus calendula
82 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Old World Warblers

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea

Black-capped Gnatcatcher Polioptila nigriceps

Thrushes

Eastern Bluebird Sialia sialis

Townsend’s Solitaire Myadestes townsendi

Veery Catharus fuscescens

Gray-cheeked Thrush Catharus minimus

Swainson’s Thrush Catharus ustulatus

Hermit Thrush Catharus guttatus

Wood Thrush Hylocichla mustelina

American Robin Turdus migratorius

Mimic Thrushes

Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinensis

Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos

Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufum

Starlings

European Starling Sturnus vulgaris

Wagtails and Pipits

American (Water) Pipit Anthus rubescens

Sprague’s Pipit Anthus spragueii

Waxwings

Bohemian Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus

Cedar Waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum

Wood Warblers

Blue-winged Warbler Vermivora pinus

Tennessee Warbler Vermivora peregrina

Orange-crowned Warbler Vermivora celata

Nashville Warbler Vermivora ruficapilla

Northern Parula Parula americana

Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia

Chestnut-sided Warbler Dendroica pensylvanica

Magnolia Warbler Dendroica magnolia

Cape May Warbler Dendroica tigrina

Black-throated Blue Warbler Dendroica caerulescens

Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata

Black-throated Green Warbler Dendroica virens

Blackburnian Warbler Dendroica fusca

Yellow-throated Warbler Dendroica dominica

Palm Warbler Dendroica palmarum

Bay-breasted Warbler Dendroica castanea

Blackpoll Warbler Dendroica striata

Cerulean Warbler Dendroica cerulea

Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia

American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla

Prothonotary Warbler Protonotaria citrea

Worm-eating Warbler Helmitheros vermivorus

Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapillus

Northern Waterthrush Seiurus noveboracensis

Louisiana Waterthrush Seiurus motacilla

Kentucky Warbler Oporornis formosus

Mourning Warbler Oporornis philadelphia

Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas

Wilson’s Warbler Wilsonia pusilla

Canada Warbler Wilsonia canadensis

Yellow-breasted Chat Icteria virens

Tanagers

Summer Tanager Piranga rubra

Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea

Sparrows and Towhees

Spotted Towhee Pipilo maculatus

Eastern Towhee Pipilo erythrophthalmus

American Tree Sparrow Spizella arborea

Chipping Sparrow Spizella passerina

Clay-colored Sparrow Spizella pallida

Field Sparrow Spizella pusilla

Vesper Sparrow Pooecetes gramineus

Lark Sparrow Chondestes grammacus

Lark Bunting Calamospiza melanocorys

Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis

Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum

Henslow’s Sparrow Ammodramus henslowii

Le Conte’s Sparrow Ammodramus leconteii

Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow Ammodramus nelsoni

Fox Sparrow Passerelia iliaca

Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia

Lincoln’s Sparrow Melospiza lincolnii

Swamp Sparrow Melospiza georgiana

White-throated Sparrow Zonotrichia albicollis

Harris’ Sparrow Zonotrichia querula

White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys

Dark-eyed Junco Junco hyemalis

Lapland Longspur Calcarius lapponicus

Smith’s Longspur Calcarius pictus

Chestnut-collared Longspur Calcarius ornatus

Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis

Cardinals, Grosbeaks, and Allies

Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis

Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus ludovicianus

Blue Grosbeak Guiraca caerulea

Lazuli Bunting Passerina amoena

Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea

Painted Bunting Passerina ciris

Dickcissel Spiza americana

Blackbirds and Orioles

Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus

Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus

Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna

Western Meadowlark Surnella neglecta

Yellow-headed Blackbird Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

Rusty Blackbird Euphagus carolinus

Brewer’s Blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus

Common Grackle Quiscalus quiscula

Great-tailed Grackle Quiscalus mexicanus

Brown-headed Cowbird Molothrus ater

Orchard Oriole Icterus spurius

Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula

Finches

Purple Finch Carpodacus purpureus

Red Crossbill Loxia curvirostra

Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea

Hoary Redpoll Carduelis hornemanni

Pine Siskin Carduelis pinus

American Goldfinch Carduelis tristis

Evening Grosbeak Coccothraustes vespertinus

Old World Sparrows

House Sparrow Introduced Passer domesticus
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 83

Appendix E.

Flint Hills NWR

Mammal List

Mammals Of Lyon and Coffey Counties, Kansas

Provided by the Kansas Biological Survey, University

of Kansas, Natural Heritage Inventory

Didelphimorpha

Virginia Opossum* Didelphis virginiana

Insectivora

Eastern Mole Scalopus aquaticus

Least Shrew Cryptotis parva

Chiroptera

Northern Myotis Myotis keenii

Little Brown Myotis Myotis lucifugus

Big Brown Bat Eptesicus fuscus

Eastern Red Bat Lasiurus borealis

Hoary Bat Lasiurus cinereus

Evening Bat Nycticeius humeralis

Brazilian Free-tailed Bat Tadarida brasiliensis

Xenarthra

Nine-banded Armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus

Lagomorpha

Eastern Cottontail Sylvilagus floridanus

Black-tailed Jackrabbit Lepus californicus

Rodentia

Eastern Chipmunk Tamias striatus

Woodchuck Marmota monax

Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel

 Spermophilus tridecemlineatus

Franklin’s Ground Squirrel Spermophilus franklinii

Eastern Gray Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis

Eastern Fox Squirrel Sciurus niger

Southern FlyingSquirrel Glaucomys volans

Plains Pocket Gopher Geomys bursarius

Hispid Pocket Mouse Chaetodipus hispidus

American Beaver Castor canadensis

Plains Harvest Mouse Reithrodontomys montanus

Western Harvest Mouse Reithrodontomys megalotis

Fulvous Harvest Mouse Reithrodontomys fulvescens

Deer Mouse Peromyscus maniculatus

White-footed Mouse Peromyscus leucopus

Hispid Cotton Rat Sigmodon hispidus

Eastern Woodrat Neotoma floridana

Woodland Vole Microtus pinetorum

Southern Bog Lemming Synaptomys cooperi

Meadow Jumping Mouse Zapus hudsonius

Muskrat Ondatra zibethicus

Carnivora

Coyote Canis latrans

Red Fox Vulpes vulpes

Common Gray Fox Urocyon cinereoargenteus

Common Raccoon Procyon lotor

Least Weasel Mustela nivalis

Long-tailed Weasel Mustela frenata

Mink Mustela vison

American Badger Taxidea taxus

Eastern Spotted Skunk Spilogale putorius

Striped Skunk Mephitis mephitis

River otters Lutra canidensis

Bobcat Lynx rufus

Artiodactyla

White-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus
84 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Appendix F.

Flint Hills NWR

Threatened and

Endangered Species List

Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus T-PD

Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus T-PD

Neosho madtom Noturus placides T

Flat floater mussel Anodonta suborbiculata SE

Index

E = Endangered

PD = Proposed De-listed

T = Threatened

SE = State Endangered
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 85

Appendix G.

Flint Hills NWR

Refuge Operating Needs

System (RONS)
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88 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
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90 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
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92 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
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94 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Appendix H.

Flint Hills NWR

Arkansas/Red Rivers

Ecosystem Plan

Table of Contents

Introduction ..................................................................................................... 91

Ecosystem Vision Statement ........................................................................ 91

Map ................................................................................................................... 92

Ecosystem Resource Description ................................................................. 93

Objectives, Strategies and Action Items

A. Water Conservation

Objective 1. Water Quantity Maintenance and Improvement ... 98

Objective 2. Water Quality Maintenance and Improvement ...... 99

B. Species and Habitat

Objective 1. Focus Species Conservation and Restoration ........ 100

Objective 2. Conserve and Restore Focus Habitats .................... 101

C. Quality of Human Life

Objective 1. Increase Public Outreach Efforts Relative to

Service Programs ............................................................................. 103

Objective 2. Improve Outdoor Recreational Opportunities ....... 104
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 95

Introduction

This Ecosystem Plan and its subsequent updates will help guide the U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) as it sets priorities, allocates resources,

and conducts its activities and programs in the Arkansas/Red Rivers

Basins to meet the mandates established for it by the American public. The

Service intends to accomplish the objectives, strategies, and action items

contained in this Plan by focusing its activities on key ecosystem

components and other influences on fish and wildlife resources in

cooperation with partner agencies, organizations and individuals from

throughout the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

The terms “Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem”, “ecosystem”, “Ark/Red”,

and “Arkansas/Red Rivers Basin” are used interchangeably throughout

this document, and are meant to refer to the biological resources of the

Arkansas and Red river basins and the habitats upon which they depend.

Reference should be made to the memorandum and accompanying concept

document of March 8, 1994, from the Service Directorate (“Ecosystem

Approach to Fish and Wildlife Resource Conservation”) for a discussion of

the genesis and principles espoused by our agency related to this endeavor.

Above all, the reader should realize that this is not an effort to manage the

entire ecosystem, but rather a concept by which the Service will discharge

its particular responsibilities with the needs of the ecosystem in mind.

While the efforts of the Service are keyed to managing Federal trust fish

and wildlife resources of the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem, a parallel

concern is maximizing the quality of human life, both within this ecosystem

and nationwide. Maintaining a healthy biological heritage within the

ecosystem is inextricably tied to the well-being of its human population; the

reverse also is true. To achieve our goal and objectives, we must

successfully communicate these concepts to the public.

This Plan was assembled by a team of Service personnel from stations

within the Arkansas/Red Rivers Basin. Valuable information on ecosystem

issues and solutions was received from numerous sources outside the

Service, which included personnel from other Federal agencies, State

agencies, universities, conservation organizations, and most especially

interested citizens. We thank those who took the time to contribute their

thoughts and ideas.

Finally, this document constitutes neither regulation nor binding policy,

and at most constitutes internal guidance that will be revisited regularly

and often.

Ecosystem Vision Statement

The vision of the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem Team is the efficient and

effective management of Federal trust fish and wildlife resources of the

ecosystem to conserve and restore biodiversity for the benefit of the

people.
96 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 97

Ecosystem Resource Description

The Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem contains approximately 245,000

square miles and extends from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the

bayous of Louisiana, and includes all of Oklahoma and parts of seven other

states (see Figure I map). Elevations within the Ark/Red range from over

14,000 feet ngvd (national geodetic vertical datum) to less than 300 feet

ngvd along the Red River in Louisiana. Because of the diversity in land

forms, soils, average annual precipitation, and other factors, the Arkansas/

Red Rivers Ecosystem supports the greatest diversity of fish and wildlife

resources of any Service ecosystem nationwide.

Portions of four Service Regions occur within the Arkansas/Red Rivers

Ecosystem (i.e., Regions 2, 3, 4, and 6). Twenty-four Service field stations

are located here, including 16 National Wildlife Refuges (NWR), four

National Fish Hatcheries (NFH), three Law Enforcement Offices, two

Fishery Resources offices, and one Ecological Services Field Office. In

addition, numerous other Service installations have jurisdiction over

portions of the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem. Overall, more than 40

Service installations administer programs within the ecosystem.

Omemick’ defined 15 ecoregions that occur within the Arkansas/Red

Rivers Ecosystem. Each of these is discussed briefly below, as a

background to the management objectives and strategies that follow. We

have added a 16th ecoregion, the Big Rivers. Because of the importance

and uniqueness of the habitats found along the larger streams of the Ark/

Red, and because these streams and their floodplains traverse multiple

ecoregions, we believe such an addition to be appropriate.

Southern Rockies - This ecoregion extends from central Colorado

southward in an irregular band into northeastern New Mexico. Elevations

vary from above 14,000 feet ngvd to below 6,000 feet ngvd in some

intermontane “parks.” Native forest communities of ponderosa pine and

Douglas fir dominate the montane zone, with aspen and lodgepole pine

occurring on disturbed sites. Below the montane zone, grasses, pinyonjuniper and shrub species predominate. The Leadville NFH and Colorado

Fishery Resources Office are located in this ecoregion.

Threats to the biological integrity of this ecoregion include logging, mining

activities and recreational development. Opportunities exist to work with

public land management and regulatory agencies to conserve and restore

important fish and wildlife resources in the Southern Rockies.

Southwestern Tablelands - The Southwestern Tablelands extend

throughout much of eastern Colorado, northeastern New Mexico, and

portions of northwestern Oklahoma and Texas. The topography consists

largely of sandstone and gypsum mesas and outcrops bisected by

tributaries of the Arkansas, Cimarron, North Canadian, and Canadian

rivers. The natural communities of this ecoregion are dominated by

shortgrass prairies and shinnery oak scrub. Average annual precipitation

ranges from less than 15 inches to about 21 inches. Maxwell NWR, Washita

NWR and Mora NFH are located within this ecoregion.

Resource threats in this ecoregion center on conversion of native

grasslands and scrublands to agricultural production, and overgrazing by

domestic livestock. Management opportunities include improvements in

grazing regimes, fencing riparian zones, and restoration of native

grasslands. Species of special management concern in this ecoregion

include the lesser prairie chicken, other ground nesting grassland birds,

and swift fox.
98 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Western High Plains - Southwestern Kansas, southeastern Colorado,

much of the Oklahoma panhandle, and portions of the Texas panhandle

north and south of Amarillo fall within this Omemick ecoregion. Much of

this area slopes gently to the east, with elevations ranging from 4,400 feet

ngvd to 2,800 feet ngvd. Shortgrass prairie dominates the natural

communities of this ecoregion, with playa lakes occurring throughout.

Average annual precipitation is about 20 inches. Optima NWR and Buffalo

Lake NWR occur in the Western High Plains.

Large areas of the ecoregion have been converted to irrigated agriculture,

drawing upon the Ogallala aquifer as a water source. In the remaining

areas of shortgrass prairie habitat, invasion by honey mesquite has

degraded habitat for native wildlife species as well as for livestock grazing.

Restoration of playa lakes and surrounding shortgrass prairie habitat in

cooperation with partner agencies and landowners is a high priority.

Central Great Plains- This ecoregion extends in a broad band from

south-central Kansas through western Oklahoma and the northwestern

portion of the body of Texas, sloping from 2,000 feet ngvd in the west to

about 1,000 feet ngvd in the east. The area consists of rolling plains

bisected by most of the major east-west flowing rivers of the Arkansas/Red

Rivers Ecosystem. Annual precipitation averages about 27 inches. Native

vegetative communities are dominated by mid- to tallgrass prairie, with

riparian forest of varying widths occurring within the floodplains of the

major streams. A notable geographic feature of this ecoregion is the

Wichita Mountains of southwestern Oklahoma. Quivira NWR, Salt Plains

NWR and Wichita Mountains NWR are found in this ecoregion. In

addition, Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Management Area, one of two

Internationally recognized Ramsar wetland sites located in the Ark/Red, is

located in the northern part of the Central Great Plains ecoregion.

Cultivated agriculture and livestock grazing have altered nearly all of the

natural communities of this Ark/Red ecoregion. Invasion of much of the

remaining native grasslands by eastern red cedar has appreciably

decreased its wildlife resource and grazing value. Opportunities exist to

improve grazing regimes and restore native grasslands through a variety

of Federal, State and local programs and initiatives.

Flint Hills - Within the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem the Flint fells

ecoregion extends in a roughly 30-mile wide band from north-central

Oklahoma northward to the northern Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem

boundary in Kansas. Precipitation averages up to 40 inches annually in this

ecoregion. The limestone derived soils support a native tallgrass prairie

community, which is probably the most intact of any of the ecoregions in

the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem. Flint Hills NWR occurs in the

northern portion of this ecoregion.

Threats to important fish and wildlife resources within this ecoregion

include construction and operation of stream impoundments, livestock

grazing and further fragmentation of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem by

transportation, utility and municipal development. Opportunities exist to

improve grazing regimes on private lands, and to work with Federal and

State agencies and private organizations, such as The Nature Conservancy

and Sutton Avian Research Center to gain more information to better

manage declining resources such as grassland birds within the Flint Hills

and other ecoregions.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 99

Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains - This ecoregion is found from northcentral Oklahoma to southern Oklahoma, and includes much of the Red

River drainage in northern Texas. The overall slope is to the southeast,

from 1,200 feet ngvd in the north to 600 feet ngvd along the Red River.

Average annual precipitation is about 40 inches. The natural vegetation

consists of a mixture of post oak-blackjack oak forest and savannah and

tallgrass prairie communities. The topography is generally rolling to hilly,

with the Arbuckle Mountains of south-central Oklahoma forming a distinct

feature of this ecoregion. Deep Fork NWR, Tishomingo NWR, Hagerman

NWR, Little River NWR, and Tishomingo NFH occur within this

ecoregion.

The majority of this ecoregion has been fragmented into relatively small

private ownerships, making management of key biological components

difficult. The opportunities that exist for management of important fish and

wildlife resources center on the few larger public holdings and smaller

private ownerships where cooperative projects designed to protect or

restore wetland, prairie and savannah habitats can be implemented.

Texas Black Prairies - The northern portion of this ecoregion extends

into the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem in northeastern Texas. ‘Me

natural communities are dominated by tallgrass prairies, although the vast

majority have been converted to cultivated agriculture. The topography is

generally level to gently rolling and averages about 600 feet ngvd.

Opportunities for cooperative restoration of wetland and native prairie

habitat exist on individual private land holdings.

East Central Texas Plains - A very small portion of this ecoregion occurs

in the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem just east of the Texas Black

Prairies. The natural communities of this ecoregion are similar to those of

the southeastern part of the Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains, with post

oak-blackjack oak and tallgrass prairie species predominating.

Management opportunities here are similar to those in that ecoregion

through cooperative efforts with private landowners.

Central Irregular Plains - Large portions of northeastern Oklahoma and

southeastern Kansas are included in this ecoregion. Precipitation averages

about 40 inches annually. The predominant natural community is tallgrass

prairie. Low rolling hills dominant the landscape, which slopes gently to

the southeast. Some post oak-blackjack forest and cave habitats also occur

in this ecoregion, largely in areas of limestone outcrops and locations with

thinner soils. The Arkansas River bisects the southern portion of this

ecoregion, with the Neosho River and its tributaries draining the majority

of the area.

Much of this ecoregion has been converted to cultivated agriculture and

introduced grassland pasture. Various development activities also have

resulted in habitat fragmentation in additional areas. Conservation and

restoration of wetlands and native prairies are possible on private lands

throughout the ecoregion on a relatively small scale through Service

programs and partnerships with public and private cooperators.
100 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Ozark Highlands/Boston Mountains - These ecoregions extend into

northeastern Oklahoma and northwestern Arkansas, with topography

consisting of rugged hills and low mountains bisected by numerous

streams. The highest elevations reach above 1,500 feet ngvd, with the

general slope of the area to the southwest, and drainage primarily to the

Illinois and Neosho rivers. Annual precipitation averages over 42 inches.

The natural communities of this ecoregion are dominated by a western

extension of the oak-hickory forest. More mesic floodplain forests occur

along the major streams of the region. An additional dominant feature of

these ecoregions is the extensive network of cave habitats formed in the

underlying limestone parent material. Numerous rare, endangered and

endemic fish and wildlife species are associated with and dependent upon

these habitats. The Ozark Plateau NWR, Logan Cave NWR and Neosho

NFH are located within these ecoregions.

Opportunities exist to work with private landowners to manage various

biological components of these ecoregions. Special emphasis is given to

formation of partnerships with private landowners for protection and

management of cave resources within these ecoregions.

Arkansas Valley - The lower portion of the Arkansas River valley from

the confluence with the Neosho River downstream to eastern Arkansas

form this ecoregion. Annual precipitation here averages over 45 inches. In

addition to the river floodplain, this ecoregion also includes several isolated

hills, including the Sans Bois Mountains in Oklahoma which rise over 1,200

feet above the surrounding floodplain. Dominant natural vegetation of the

Arkansas River floodplain includes forests of oak, elm and hackberry, with

well-developed understories. Sequoyah NWR and Holla Bend NWR are

located in this ecoregion. Natural communities of the isolated hills are

typical of the Ozark Highlands/Boston Mountains and Central Oklahoma/

Texas Plains.

The natural communities of this ecoregion have been significantly altered

by timber harvesting, cultivated agriculture, and development of the

McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System. The series of locks,

dams and reservoirs associated with the latter have inundated vast areas of

this ecoregion, and resulted in additional fish and wildlife resource

impacts from secondary development activities. Opportunities exist to

work with other Federal and State agencies and private landowners to

conserve and restore wetland and forested habitats in this ecoregion.

Ouachita Mountains - This ecoregion is located in southeastern

Oklahoma and southwestern Arkansas. Elevations vary from nearly 3,000

feet ngvd to about 700 feet ngvd. Annual precipitation in this ecoregion

approaches 60 inches annually in some locations. The dominant vegetation

of the natural communities include shortleaf pine savannah with an

understory of tall grasses. Oak-hickory forest communities are found in

more mesic north-facing slopes and in ravines. In addition bottomland

hardwood forests occur in the floodplains of the larger streams draining

this ecoregion, including the Kiamichi, Glover, Cossatot, and Little rivers.

Significant impacts to the natural communities of this ecoregion are largely

associated with commercial forest management and conversion to other

uses, such as agriculture and reservoir impoundments. Large areas of the

Ouachitas have been clear-cut and converted to loblolly pine plantations,

with significant effects on sensitive species such as the red-cockaded

woodpecker and leopard darter. Distinct opportunities exist to coordinate

with other Federal and State agencies and large corporate landowners in

this ecoregion to restore pine savannah, floodplain forest and stream

habitat. A proposed large-scale land exchange between the Weyerhauser

Corporation and U.S. Forest Service potentially can provide considerable

opportunity for such cooperative recovery efforts.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 101

South Central Plains - Portions of southeastern Oklahoma, Southwestern

Arkansas, northeastern Texas, and northwestern Louisiana drained by the

Red River make up this ecoregion. Precipitation in this ecoregion averages

over 45 inches annually. Dominant natural communities consist of moist

upland forests of gums and oaks, as well as true bottomland hardwood

forests along streams and rivers. Stands of loblolly pine also occur in the

more mesic upland sites. The Little River and Cossatot NWR’s and

Natchitoches NFH are located in this ecoregion, as well as Caddo Lake,

one of two Ramsar wetland sites found in the ecosystem.

Major threats to the biological resources of the South Central Plains

include drainage of floodplain wetlands for agricultural and forestry

management purposes, stream channelization for navigation and other

related developments, and clearing of forested habitats. Despite the many

threats to the fish and wildlife resources of this ecoregion, many

opportunities also exist to restore wetland and forested habitats in

cooperation with Federal and State agencies, and with private landowners.

Mississippi Alluvial Plain - A very small part of this ecoregion enters the

Ark/Red along the Arkansas River in eastern Arkansas. This area

experiences about 50 inches of precipitation annually. The natural

vegetation of this ecoregion was dominated by bottomland hardwood forest

species, although the vast majority of the area has been converted to

cultivated Agriculture.

In cooperation with other agencies and individual landowners, there is a

great opportunity to restore wetland and forested habitats to the

Mississippi Alluvial Plain.

Big Rivers - While not defined by Omemick as an ecoregion, due to the

importance of the Big Rivers within the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem

to management of important fish and wildlife resources, the river beds and

associated riparian zones of the following streams are included within a

separate ecoregion: Arkansas, Red, Cimarron, Beaver/North Canadian,

Canadian, Washita, Deep Fork, and Neosho rivers. A similar characteristic

of the natural habitat of all of these rivers is the presence of a shifting

alluvial substrate which is periodically scoured of vegetation and formed

into gravel and sandbar habitat and braided stream habitat by recurring

flood events. Sandhill cranes, Interior least terns, waterfowl, bald eagles,

shorebirds, numerous other migratory and resident bird species, and a

distinct assemblage of fish and other aquatic species depend upon these

habitats for roosting, nesting, spawning, and feeding habitat.

Much of the original habitat provided by the Big Rivers ecoregion has been

lost to reservoir inundation, channelization, urbanization, water depletion,

and other human induced impacts. Opportunities exist, in cooperation with

land and water management agencies, to restore some degree of the

habitat value provided by this riverine habitat for important fish and

wildlife resources.
102 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Objectives, Strategies and Action Items

A. Water Conservation

Objective 1. Water Quantity Maintenance and Improvement

With partners, and under the constraints of State primacy in matters

concerning water allocation, the Service will seek methods to facilitate the

conservation of water resources for the management of important fish and

wildlife species and habitats, with emphasis on areas downstream of

Federal water management facilities. Efforts will concentrate on the

maintenance of instream flows and groundwater resources to support

native flora and fauna. Maintenance and development of an adequate water

supply for wetlands management on existing Service lands and partners’

projects also will be emphasized. Specific areas of concern include instream

flows, springs, caves, and groundwater and alluvial aquifers.

Strategy 1. Facilitate adequate stream flows for conservation of fish

and wildlife resources.

A. Participate in water needs assessments to inventory water resources in

the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem and provide background on

available water resources.

B. Participate in stream compact commissions and similar organizations

to better understand and influence water resources allocation in the

Ark/Red.

C. Determine recommended stream flows regimes for major rivers and

their tributaries within the Ark/Red; emphasize flow needs

downstream of federally-controlled facilities.

D. Identify principal water quantity management authorities and their

user groups in the Ark/Red Ecosystem.

E. Maintain adequate system flows in the Arkansas/Red Rivers

Ecosystem by protecting, restoring, and enhancing riparian/floodplain

wetlands as natural water storage and release areas.

F. Obtain ready access to discharge and water level records via Internet

and CD-ROM technology.

Strategy 2. Facilitate conservation of groundwater resources.

A. Identify recharge and outflow areas for the major aquifers of the Ark/

Red.

B. Identify conservation methods to maintain and restore groundwater

levels.

Strategy 3. Facilitate adequate water supplies for wetland management.

A. With partners, identify water resources essential to management of

existing wetland habitats, and restoration of degraded wetland

habitats, both on and off Service lands.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 103

Objective 2. Water Quality Maintenance and Improvement

With partners and stakeholders, assure that Federal and State water

quality standards are established and applied in a manner that protects

and enhances all aquatic resources. These strategies and actions will

promote restoration of focus species and habitats while contributing to

overall biodiversity conservation in the Ark/Red.

Strategy 1. Maintain and improve surface water quality for

conservation of fish and wildlife resources.

A. Cooperate with Federal/State agriculture agencies to improve nonpoint source water quality in Ark/Red streams.

B. Increase use of the Partners for Wildlife Program (PWP) and other

available programs to enhance riparian wetlands on private lands as a

method of improving stream water quality.

C. Assure adequate monitoring of contaminant effects on and off Service

lands within the Ark/Red.

D. Assure adequate treatment of any effluents generated on or leaving

Service lands or facilities.

E. Protect/restore riparian habitat on Service lands as an aid to water

quality improvement.

F. Demonstrate the use of constructed and restored wetlands for water

quality improvement.

G. Establish upland vegetated buffers around important wetland habitats

to reduce sedimentation and contaminant/nutrient inputs.

H. Determine water quality impacts of confined animal feeding operations

(i.e., CAFO’S) in the Ark/Red.

I. Work with State and Federal agencies to strengthen water quality

standards, discharge limits and use designations of aquatic and

wetland resources throughout the Ark/Red.

J. Participate in contaminant contingency planning and establish a

Service/partner response team to protect and restore trust resources.

K. Identify principal water quality-related authorities and potential

partners in the Ark/Red.

L. Identify and prioritize areas of the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem

where water quality does not meet Federal and State water quality

standards or otherwise impairs support for native flora and fauna.

M. Use Service statutory authorities, in conjunction with partners, to

ensure that water quality standards are met to protect native flora and

fauna.

N. Use Service authorities under Superfund to protect and restore native

species and habitats in the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem, with

emphasis on early involvement.

0. Use Service authorities under ESA, MBTA, Refuge Administration

Act, Oil Pollution Act, and other statutes to ensure protection/

restoration for native species and habitats affected by oil and gas

operations.

Strategy 2. Maintain and improve groundwater quality for conservation

of fish and wildlife resources.

A. Conduct or facilitate water quality monitoring of groundwater

resources related to important fish and wildlife resources of the Ark/

Red.
104 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

B. Species and Habitat

Objective 1. Focus Species Conservation and Restoration

The Arkansas River and its tributaries drain portions of seven states. As a

result of the large area contained within the ecosystem, an enormous

number of species occupy its diverse habitats. Identified focus species

groups include migratory birds, federally-listed, proposed, candidate, and

species of concern, as well as interjurisdictional fisheries, and nonindigenous species. Some non-indigenous species are perceived as

beneficial and desired while others are considered harmful. Even though

this objective treats the needs of individual or groups of species, the

majority of action items identified seek to conserve, restore or enhance the

habitats upon which these species depend.

Strategy 1. Conserve and restore migratory birds

A. Increase aerial surveillance for enforcement of illegal take of

migratory birds.

B. Continue and increase raptor electrocution enforcement.

C. Continue investigation of oilfield and chemical hazards causing

migratory bird mortality.

D. Conduct and facilitate research related to diseases of migratory birds.

E. Improve important habitat on NWR’s for migratory birds.

F. Ecological Services and Law Enforcement to cooperate to develop

case to prosecute take of habitat (i.e., under MBTA).

G. Increase LE budget for migratory bird enforcement in the Ark/Red.

H. Conduct and facilitate investigations to identify neotropical bird

species use of Ark/Red NWR’S.

I. Use Service authorities under the Clean Water Act (Section 404), Fish

and Wildlife Coordination Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act,

Endangered Species Act, and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act to

ensure protection/restoration of migratory birds on and off Service

lands.

Strategy 2. Conserve and restore interjurisdictional fisheries.

A. Perform status surveys for listed, rare and declining aquatic

interjurisdictional species.

B. Propagate and restore listed, rare and declining aquatic

interjurisdictional species to their native ranges within the Ark/Red.

C. With partners, facilitate and conduct assessments of the aquatic

resources in Ark/Red.

D. Conserve and restore interjurisdictional fishery resources on Service

lands throughout the Ark/Red.

Strategy 3. Conserve and recover listed, proposed, candidate, and

species of concern.

A. Develop a species list with known ranges for all vertebrate species

within the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

B. Increase emphasis on LE activities to protect essential wintering and

nesting areas for endangered species.

C. Protect and restore the diversity and integrity of important aquatic,

wetland and terrestrial habitats within the Ark/Red for listed,

proposed, candidate, and species of concern.

D. Implement priority recovery tasks for all listed species within the Ark/Red.

E. Conduct and facilitate investigations related to prioritized species of concern.

F. Assess, develop and utilize capability at NFH’s to hold and possibly

propagate native mussels and other declining aquatic species.

G. Continue to develop MOU’s with other agencies for conservation of

species of concern.

H. Maintain ongoing surveys and monitoring efforts for listed, proposed,

candidate, and species of concern.

I. Conduct baseline survey for 18 imperiled fish species in Ark/Red.

J. Prioritize recovery efforts among 0 listed, candidate and species of

concern within the Ark/Red in order to efficiency manage limited

funds and recovery opportunities.

K. Develop BMP’s for listed, candidate and species of concern for use by

Ark/Red landowners; facilitate HCP’s and Safe Harbor agreements.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 105

Strategy 4. Management of non-indigenous species

A. Monitor spread of zebra mussels throughout the Ark/Red.

B. Coordinate with State contacts on non-indigenous species issues and

participate in existing multi-agency teams addressing non-indigenous

species.

C. Provide information to the public explaining the hazards of

introductions of non-indigenous species, and encourage control

methods.

Objective 2. Conserve and Restore Focus Habitats

The Ark/Red contains a tremendous variety of important habitats. Many

are under threat due to human alterations and developments such as urban

and agricultural expansions, forestry practices, and cave exploration and

development. Habitats of significant importance which are under threat

include wetlands, streams (including Big Rivers) and floodplain forests

(including bottomland hardwoods), native grasslands, upland forests and

cave systems.

Strategy 1. Conserve and restore wetland and bottomland hardwood

habitats.

A. Establish an organized protection plan and funding base for important

wetland and bottomland hardwood habitats throughout the Ark/Red.

B. Acquire wetlands/bottomland hardwoods with Duck Stamp/LWCF on

suitable sites throughout the Ark/Red.

C. Restore wetlands/bottomland hardwoods on suitable sites throughout

the Ark/Red, on and off Service lands.

D. Monitor representative aquatic and wetland habitats for data base

development.

E. Construct moist soil units on NWR’s throughout the Ark/Red.

F. Acquire and utilize tree planters and related equipment at field

stations throughout the Ark/Red.

G. Cooperate with agency partners and landowners in implementing

forestry BMP’S, especially in bottomland hardwood habitat.

H. Encourage forest product companies to insure reforestation of private

lands following timber harvest, especially in bottomland hardwoods.

I. With partners, accomplish wetland delineation per national

Memorandum of Understanding among DOI, DOD, USDA, and EPA.

J. Identify and prioritize bottomland hardwood and wetland habitats in

the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

K. Utilize the PWP to accomplish habitat restoration projects for priority

areas, habitats, and target species.

L. Meet Service responsibilities for ensuring mitigation in the Arkansas/

Red Rivers Ecosystem to reduce habitat and species impacts caused

by human development. Pursue innovative partnership opportunities

to complete priority mitigation projects, including use of the mitigation

banking concept.

M. Complete Congressionally mandated management planning and data

collection on NWR’s throughout the Ark/Red.

N. Conduct and facilitate investigations designed to identify optimum

management procedures for bottomland hardwoods and wetlands

throughout the Ark/Red.

Strategy 2. Conserve and restore Big River habitats.

A. Conserve and restore the aquatic diversity of Ark/Red Big Rivers.

B. Conserve and restore sandbar habitat in Ark/Red Big Rivers.

C. Conserve and restore backwater and oxbow habitats associated with

Ark/Red Big Rivers.

Strategy 3. Conserve and restore prairie stream and riparian habitats.

A. Conserve and restore the aquatic diversity of prairie stream and

riparian habitats.
106 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Strategy 4. Conserve cave systems.

A. Control human access to important NWR and other public cave

habitats throughout the Ark/Red.

B. Work with partners via PWP to cooperatively gate caves on private

lands to protect cave habitat and species.

Strategy 5. Conserve and restore native grassland habitats.

A. Conduct and facilitate inventories, studies, and assessments on prairie

species (i.e., flora and fauna) within Ark/Red.

B. Determine cause and effect of decline of prairie species (emphasis on

migratory birds and species of concern).

C. Establish cooperative partnerships to conserve and restore native

grasslands and savannahs on private lands throughout the Ark/Red.

D. Conserve and restore NWR native grasslands throughout the ARRE.

E. Conduct needed research activities on NWR’s relative to management

of native grassland species and systems.

F. Develop management plans to protect shortgrass prairie.

Strategy 6. Conserve and restore native upland forest and savannah

habitats.

A. Cooperate with agency partners and landowners in implementing

forestry BMP’s on private lands
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 107

C. Quality of Human Life

Objective 1. Increase Public Outreach Efforts Relative to Service Programs

Conservation of our wildlife heritage can only be accomplished by

increasing public knowledge of the related problems and opportunities

through environmental education, exhibits, pamphlets, and other means.

Strategy 1. Increase public awareness of relationship between fish and

wildlife resource conservation and quality of human life.

A. Establish an ecosystem-wide outreach position for the Ark/Red.

B. In consultation with partners, develop a cross-program, ecosystemwide public outreach strategy addressing major habitat-related

problems, threats and opportunities.

C. Increase staffing for outreach personnel at Ark/Red field stations.

D. Develop a media symbol for the Ark/Red.

E. Restore and enhance wetlands on private lands and establish outdoor

classrooms throughout the Ark/Red.

F. Develop an ecosystem-specific vision statement for the Ark/Red

associated with the media symbol, logo, displays and other outreach

material.

G. Develop an Ark/Red newsletter.

H. Develop traveling display on Biodiversity and general Biological

Information concerning the Ark/Red.

I. Expand the existing database for media contacts to include all of the

Ark/Red.

J. Develop posters: Plight of the Prairies - FY97, Bottomland Hardwoods

- FY98.

K. Develop public service announcements (PSA) on Biodiversity and

Endangered Species in Ark/Red. Fund airtime (television and radio)

for PSA’S. Increase print media distribution (newspapers, magazines,

etc.) for PSA’S.

L. Provide information booths at International Airports within the Ark/

Red on biodiversity and import/export regulations.

M. Develop/purchase school book covers promoting the ecosystem

approach to managing fish and wildlife resources.

N. Establish study/outreach centers at Ark/Red NWR’s and NFH’s for

focus species and habitats.

O. Support National Fishing Week and other outreach efforts by

sponsoring annual fishing clinics, derbies, and develop programs for

target groups.

P. Coordinate with the State fish and wildlife resource agencies in

development of environmental education center and other outreach

facilities.

Q. Construct and staff needed visitor centers, environmental education

centers, and other interpretive resources at Ark/Red NFH’s and

NWR’S.

R. Develop habitat and species-specific endangered species regulations

information for distribution to private landowners within the Ark/Red.

S. Purchase biodiversity display from Smithsonian Institution.

T. Explore possibility of obtaining educational media relating to

biodiversity from television science series Bill Nye - “The Science,

Guy”.

U. Develop demonstration area (possibly at a NWR) for “Backyard

Habitat” plantings.

V. Develop curriculum/classroom projects relating to Ark/Red issues.

W. Develop an identification brochure for selected Ark/Red species to

increase public awareness, and as an aid to increase monitoring efforts,

and to help establish status and trends.

X. Encourage resource agencies to conduct environmental education

programs in the public schools.

Y. Encourage corporate support of environmental education programs in

the public schools.

Z. Identify partners and resources available to cooperatively educate

target audiences (i.e., “publics”) in the Ark/Red.
108 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

AA. Develop professional outreach efforts to inform the general public and

potential partners of ecosystem management principles and priorities

(e.g. partnerships, bottom-up approach, ongoing and long-term effort)

in the Service.

BB. Increase public awareness of hunting and fish opportunities as

essential elements of good ecosystem management.

CC. Increase public awareness of nontraditional resource opportunities as

valued inputs to ecosystem management.

DD.Increase public awareness of people as an important component and an

important concern in the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

EE.Develop educational programs related to urban wildlife-human conflict

awareness and resolution.

Objective 2. Improve Outdoor Recreational Opportunities

There is an increased demand for outdoor recreational activities with the

expanding human population in the Ark/Red Ecosystem. Popular activities

include bird watching, fishing, hiking, and hunting, among others.

Strategy 1. Provide recreational opportunities to increase public

enjoyment and awareness of relationships between fish

and wildlife resource conservation and quality of human

life.

A. Assist in the management of recreational fishes and related habitats

(on federal and trust lands) within the Ark/Red.

B. Develop recreation plans for Ark/Red NWR’s and NFH’S, where

appropriate.

C. Encourage other agencies, such as the Corps of Engineers and State

parks departments, to emphasize fish and wildlife resource-related

outdoor recreation on lands under their jurisdiction.

D. Identify partners involved in traditional and non-traditional

recreational programs within the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

E. Identify partners and areas where sustainable recreational

opportunities can be enhanced without impacts on natural resources in

the Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem.

F. Maintain traditional hunting and fishing programs (e.g., Pathways to

Fishing, National Recreational Fishing Policy, Refuge hunting and

fishing) that provide direct public access and enjoyment of natural

resources and promote public awareness and participation in

ecosystem concepts.

G. Develop non-traditional fish and wildlife management programs that

provide direct public access and enjoyment of natural resources and

promote public awareness and participation in ecosystem concepts/

programs.

H. Promote urban and youth fish and wildlife programs to increase

ecosystem awareness and participation.

Summary

This Arkansas/Red Rivers Ecosystem Plan was designed as a communication

tool to alert decision makers within the Service, as well as partners, to the

resources that occur here, and the priorities established by the Ecosystem

Team for management of Trust resources. The Plan will be updated

periodically as resource management needs and opportunities evolve. The

key to successful implementation of the Plan is involvement of partners

from Federal, State and local governments, and the private sector,

especially landowners. To this end, the Ark/Red Team dedicates this Plan

to the Trust resources and people we serve.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 109

Appendix I.

Flint Hills NWR

Key Legislation and Policies

Antiquities Act (1906): Authorizes the scientific investigation of antiquities

on Federal land and provides penalties for unauthorized removal of objects

taken or collected without a permit.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act (1918): Designates the protection of migratory

birds as a Federal responsibility. This Act enables the setting of seasons,

and other regulations including the closing of areas, Federal or nonFederal, to the hunting of migratory birds.

Migratory Bird Conservation Act (1929): Establishes procedures for

acquisition by purchase, rental, or gift of areas approved by the Migratory

Bird Conservation Commission.

Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act (1934):

Authorized the opening of part of a refuge to waterfowl hunting.

Fish and Wildlife Act (1956): Established a comprehensive national fish

and wildlife policy and broadened the authority for acquisition and

development of refuges.

Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (1958): Allows the Fish and Wildlife

Service to enter into agreements with private landowners for wildlife

management purposes.

Refuge Recreation Act (1962): Allows the use of refuges for recreation

when such uses are compatible with the refuge’s primary purposes and

when sufficient funds are available to manage the uses.

Land and Water Conservation Fund Act (1965): Uses the receipts from

the sale of surplus Federal land, outer continental shelf oil and gas sales,

and other sources for land acquisition under several authorities.

National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 as

amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of

1997, 16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee. (Refuge Administration Act): Defines the

National Wildlife Refuge System and authorizes the Secretary to permit

any use of a refuge provided such use is compatible with the major

purposes for which the refuge was established. The Refuge Improvement

Act clearly defines a unifying mission for the Refuge System; establishes

the legitimacy and appropriateness of the six priority public uses (hunting,

fishing, wildlife observation and photography, or environmental education

and interpretation); establishes a formal process for determining

compatibility; established the responsibilities of the Secretary of Interior

for managing and protecting the System; and requires a Comprehensive

Conservation Plan for each refuge by the year 2012. This Act amended

portions of the Refuge Recreation Act and National Wildlife Refuge

System Administration Act of 1966.

National Historic Preservation Act (1966) as amended: Establishes as

policy that the Federal Government is to provide leadership in the

preservation of the nation’s prehistoric and historic resources.

Architectural Barriers Act (1968): Requires federally owned, leased, or

funded buildings and facilities to be accessible to persons with disabilities.
110 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

National Environmental Policy Act (1969): Requires the disclosure of

the environmental impacts of any major Federal action significantly

affecting the quality of the human environment.

Endangered Species Act (1973): Requires all Federal agencies to carry

out programs for the conservation of endangered and threatened species.

Rehabilitation Act (1973): Requires programmatic accessibility in

addition to physical accessibility for all facilities and programs funded by

the Federal government to ensure that anybody can participate in any

program.

Archaeological and Historic Preservation Act (1974): Directs the

preservation of historic and archaeological data in Federal construction

projects.

Clean Water Act (1977): Requires consultation with the Corps of

Engineers (404 permits) for major wetland modifications.

Executive Order 11988 (1977): Each Federal agency shall provide

leadership and take action to reduce the risk of flood loss and minimize the

impact of floods on human safety, and preserve the natural and beneficial

values served by the floodplains.

American Indian Religious Freedom Act (1978): Directs agencies to

consult with native traditional religious leaders to determine appropriate

policy changes necessary to protect and preserve Native American

religious cultural rights and practices.

Archaeological Resources Protection Act (1979) as amended: Protects

materials of archaeological interest from unauthorized removal or

destruction and requires Federal managers to develop plans and schedules

to locate archaeological resources.

Emergency Wetlands Resources Act (1986): The purpose of the Act is

“To promote the conservation of migratory waterfowl and to offset or

prevent the serious loss of wetlands by the acquisition of wetlands and

other essential habitat, and for other purposes.”

Federal Noxious Weed Act (1990): Requires the use of integrated

management systems to control or contain undesirable plant species; and

an interdisciplinary approach with the cooperation of other Federal and

State agencies.

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (1990):

Requires Federal agencies and museums to inventory, determine

ownership of, and repatriate cultural items under their control or

possession.

Americans With Disabilities Act (1992): Prohibits discrimination in

public accommodations and services.

Executive Order 12996 Management and General Public Use of the

National Wildlife Refuge System (1996): Defines the mission, purpose,

and priority public uses of the National Wildlife Refuge System. It also

presents four principles to guide management of the System.

Executive Order 13007 Indian Sacred Sites (1996): Directs Federal land

management agencies to accommodate access to and ceremonial use of

Indian sacred sites by Indian religious practitioners, avoid adversely

affecting the physical integrity of such sacred sites, and where appropriate,

maintain the confidentiality of sacred sites.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 111

Appendix J.

Flint Hills NWR

Cooperative Agreements
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Appendix K.

Flint Hills NWR

Contaminant Assessment

Process

Biomonitoring of Environmental Status and Trends Program

Contaminant Assessment Process

Final CAP Report for Flint Hills NWR

CAP Information (Contaminants Assessment Process)

A Contaminant Assessment Process or CAP has been conducted for this

Refuge. A CAP is an information gathering process and initial assessment

of a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wildlife Refuge in relation to

environmental contaminants. You will find information in this report on

particular contaminants of concern to fish and wildlife resources on the

Refuge and areas of the Refuge of particular interest with regard to these

contaminants.

__________________________________________________________________________

Primary Investigator Information

Analysis started 14:12 June 25,1999

Analysis completed 08:30:35 September 09,1999

Report produced 06:59:49 April 11,2000

Susan Blackford

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

315 Houston, Suite E

Manhattan, KS 66502

Phone: 785-539-3474

email: Susan_Blackford@fws.gov

Notes on Primary Investigator

Assistant Contaminant Specialist, Ecological Services, Kansas Field Office.

___________________________________________________________________________

Narrative Report of Contaminant Issues

Problem Narrative:

Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge

Contaminant Assessment Process Narrative September 9, 1999

The Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) was established in 1966

and consists of 18,463 acres. The Refuge is part of the Arkansas/Red

Rivers Ecosystem. It lies in the broad, flat Neosho River Valley in the

Neosho Basin. The Refuge is managed primarily to benefit migrating and

wintering waterfowl in the central flyway. A variety of management

practices are utilized to meet the needs of wildlife. Along with large

numbers of migrating birds, the Refuge is also a haven for white-tailed

deer, bobwhite quail, wild turkey, river otter and a diversity of other

mammals, neotropical birds, reptiles and insects.

Activities associated with agriculture, flood control, and public recreation

are the most likely pathways for contaminants input to the Refuge.
128 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

The Refuge is an overlay on and is entirely located within the Corps of

Engineers John Redmond Reservoir Flood control project (Reservoir).

As such, the management of the Reservoir profoundly affects the Refuge.

Land use on the Refuge has limitations when the flooding impacts are

factored in. Flooding of the Refuge (caused from the reservoir holding

water) occurs on a fairly frequent basis, generally in the spring and fall

months. On average, the entire Refuge (95 percent of the Refuge is

flooded) is flooded once in ten years, severe flooding (75 percent of the

Refuge is flooded) occurs one in seven years, moderate flooding (50 percent

of the Refuge is flooded) occurs one in four years, while minor flooding (25

percent of the Refuge is flooded) occurs yearly. However, 95 percent of the

Refuge was flooded during the years of 1973, 1985, 1986, 1993, 1995, 1998,

and the current year of 1999.

Flood waters can bring in substantial amounts of contaminants onto the

Refuge and should be considered a major contaminant pathway. Because

the reservoir is holding water, the flood water covers the Refuge for

extended periods of time. Any contaminants present in the water might

tend to settle out while the water is standing over the Refuge.

Nearly 1.5 million people live within 100 miles of the Refuge. Most of this

population live in the four large cities, Topeka, Wichita, Kansas City, or

Emporia, within this area. Although the population of Emporia is

considerably smaller than the other three cities, it probably has the biggest

impact on the Refuge. It lies approximately 25 miles west of the Refuge

and sits between the Neosho and Cottonwood Rivers just upstream from

the confluence of the two Rivers. It is the only one of the four cities that is

in the same basin as the Refuge. Emporia has several large industries

including a slaughter house and meat packing plant, automobile parts

manufacturing, a large commercial bakery, and a dog food plant.

Several smaller towns near the Refuge have petroleum products storage

facilities and power generating plants. Wolf Creek Nuclear Power Plant is

located eight miles east of the Refuge. Accidents at these types of facilities

could contribute significant amounts of contaminants to the Refuge.

The Neosho River runs through the Refuge. Several smaller streams also

enter the Refuge including Four Mile Creek, Lebo Creek, Eagle Creek,

and Troublesome Creek along with several drainage canals and unnamed

intermittent streams. There are documented contaminant concerns for

most of the surface water entering the Refuge.

Consumption advisories are issued most years for the Neosho River due to

chlordane compound concentrations in fish. In the 1970’s, there were

documented water quality problems on the Neosho River resulting in many

publicized fish kills. These fish kills were reported to be caused primarily

from confined animal feedlot runoff. Recent investigations by the USFWS

Kansas Field Office have found PCB, atrazine and heavy metals, including

lead, mercury, and arsenic, in biota samples and lead in sediment samples

collected from the River. A Refuge staff person reported that he often

smells a strong chemical/pesticide odor emanating from the River following

precipitation events during the spring planting season.

Analysis of surface water conducted during 1997 with ELISA field tests

kits found agricultural chemicals such as triazines, 2,4-D, and alachlor are

entering the Refuge via the surface water. These chemicals were found to

be fairly persistent in the Refuge’s streams (Lebo Creek, Troublesome

Creek, Four Mile Creek, Eagle Creek and unnamed creeks and drainage

canals) which supply the wetlands. Chief among the chemicals found were

triazine compounds. Most of the streams entering the Refuge are very

turbid. Eagle Creek also has documented heavy metal contamination

concerns.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 129

Recently, Refuge Manager Jerre Gamble found a feedlot on Eagle Creek

that directly abuts the Refuge Boundary. He estimates that the feedlot

handles approximately 300 to 400 head of cattle. There is no buffer area

between the feedlot and the creek, and the feed bunkers are right on the

fence line. In all probability, wastes from the feedlot are washed into Eagle

Creek and the Refuge during precipitation events.

The Refuge has approximately 3,917 acres of cropland. Limited chemical

use is permitted on cropland within the Refuge. This is a concern due to

the frequency of flooding and the potential of those chemicals to enter

surface water in runoff. However, several steps have been taken to attempt

to minimize unintentional impacts. The Refuge has an Integrated Pest

Management plan (IPM). No insecticides have been used on the Refuge in

11 years according to the 1996 to 2001 IPM plan. Refuge management has

recently initiated the mandatory creation of buffers along streams in

agricultural lands on the Refuge. The buffers will serve to control erosion

and reduce the amount of contaminants entering the surface waters of the

Refuge. The buffers will be phased in as contracts are renewed. Refuge

cropland is usually double cropped. Refuge management feels that this

practice combats the weed problems and reduces the amount of herbicides

that are applied. Refuge staff estimates that more pesticides are used on

the cropland following flood event years.

The Refuge has approximately 4,572 acres of wetlands. One type of waterright currently used on the Refuge allows pumping from the Neosho River

and Eagle Creek into wetlands. Wetlands receiving these waters should be

monitored to determine if there are any detrimental effects to the wetland

associated with contaminants in the pumped water. Benthic invertebrate

community structure and population analysis should be included in the

monitoring. Willow tree invasion is considered a problem in the moist soil

wetlands. Mowing, flooding, and occasional dozer work have been used for

control. The use of Rodeo chemical has been approved; but as of 1996, no

applications have been made.

The Refuge has received heavy hunting and fishing pressure. No

investigations of lead deposition from fishing or past hunting activity have

been undertaken. It is possible that if such lead deposition has occurred

that the dozer activity used to control willow tree invasion could bring the

lead to the surface of the sediments and into contact with waterfowl,

shorebirds, and fish who eat it along with food items or mistake it for food

items. Also, the use of any chemical in a wetland is a cause for concern, and

if Rodeo is used for willow control occurs in the future, it might be

beneficial to conduct benthic invertebrate population studies both pre- and

post-treatment to determine if the chemical is affecting those populations.

Mudflats most likely are associated with water drawdowns after flooding

events and the number of acres available will vary yearly. These areas may

act as a sink for contaminated sediments deposited from flood waters. No

investigations have taken place to determine if this is occurring.

The Refuge has approximately 120 acres of administrative and recreational

roadways. These roadways are often under flood waters. Due to the

frequent flooding, erosion of the roadway materials, e.g., dirt and gravel,

and contaminants associated with roadways from vehicle use, e.g., oils,

grease, petroleum, antifreeze, etc., Refuge roads should be considered a

likely contaminant pathway. Another source of contamination associated

with the roadways would be spills of chemicals from the transport of

agricultural chemicals to the cropland on or near the Refuge. Road sides

may become infested with noxious weeds. Refuge IPM plans are to

maintain the road sides by mowing unless Sericea Lespedeza becomes a

problem. If that occurs some spraying may take place.
130 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

There are currently 3,200 acres of grasslands on the Refuge. Sericea

Lespedeza and Johnson grass invasions are causing serious problems on

the grasslands. Some chemical spot treatments to control Sericea

Lespedeza and Johnson grass will take place on the grasslands along with

other control techniques such as mowing, haying, and burning.

There are several pathways for transportation linked spills to reach the

Refuge. Three of these are roads in close proximity to the Refuge. K-130

cuts through the western end of the Refuge. 22nd Road borders the north

side of the Refuge. Both of these roads receive heavy semi-truck use along

with local traffic. 16th Lane which borders the south side of the Refuge

receives heavy local traffic including vehicles transporting farm chemicals.

Other spill sources include oil/gas pipelines north of the Refuge and

railroad lines near the town of Neosho Rapids near the northwest end of

the Refuge.

The most likely pathways for contamination to reach the Refuge are from

the surface water entering the Refuge and the flood waters that frequently

inundate portions of the Refuge. Recommendations for future actions

concerning contaminant issues include monitoring of wetlands receiving

water from the Neosho River and Eagle Creek to determine if there are

any adverse effects, identify mudflat areas that may act as contaminant

sinks and ascertain if that is happening, and determine if lead shot and

fishing sinkers are available to wildlife and if they are causing lead

poisoning in wildlife.

___________________________________________________________________________

 CAP Final Report Generated on 4/11/2000, 6:59

 Last refuge data update: TAT/MESC -- 1-MAR-1999
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 131

Appendix L.

Flint Hills NWR

Compatibility Determinations

Station Name: Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge

Date Established: September 27, 1965

Establishing and Acquisition Authorities:

Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act; Coordination Act Agreement with

the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Purpose(s) for which Established:

16 U.S.C. 664 (Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act): “... shall be

administered by him (Secretary of the Interior) directly or in

accordance with cooperative agreements ... and in accordance with

such rules and regulations for the conservation, maintenance, and

management of wildlife, thereof, and its habitat thereon, ...”

National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997: “each

refuge shall be managed to fulfill the mission of the System, as well as

the specific purposes for which the refuge was established.”

“... plan an direct the continued growth of the System in a manner that

is best designed to accomplish the mission of the System, to contribute

to the conservation of the ecosystems of the united States, to

complement the efforts of the States and other Federal agencies to

conserve fish and wildlife and their habitats, and to increase

support for the System and participation from conservation partners

and the public.”

“The mission of the System is to administer a national network of

lands and waters for the conservation, management, and where

appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources

and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present

and future generations of Americans.”
132 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Description of Proposed Use:

Wildlife-dependent recreation i.e., hunting, fishing, wildlife observation

and photography, and environmental education and interpretation.

Anticipated Impacts on Service Lands, Waters, or Interests:

Minimal disturbance to wildlife and wildlife habitat will result from

these uses at current and proposed levels.

Justification:

We agree with Congress, as stated in the National Wildlife Refuge

System Improvement Act, that “When managed in accordance with

principles of sound fish and wildlife management and administration, fishing,

hunting, wildlife observation, and environmental education in national

wildlife refuges have been and are expected to continue to be generally

compatible uses.”

Wildlife-dependent recreational use help carry out the purposes of

Refuge enabling legislation, cooperative agreements, CCP, and

National Wildlife Refuge System Act mandate to “ensure that

opportunities are provided within the System for compatible wildlifedependent recreational uses.”

These activities, at or below expected levels, provide the public with

opportunities to learn and appreciate the values of wetlands, riparian

areas, and the dependence of wildlife upon them. This is especially true

in Kansas where less than 2 percent of the land is in public

stewardship.

Approximately 60 percent of the Refuge is closed to general public

access, from October into February, to provide wildlife sanctuary.

Current and proposed wildlife management projects will provide

wildlife population levels sufficient to sustain hunting, fishing, and the

other recreational uses at current and projected levels with minimal

impacts to wildlife and its habitats.

Determination: Wildlife-dependent recreation is compatible.

The Following Stipulations are Necessary to Ensure Compatibility:

P All activities will be monitored by the refuge manager to ensure that

wildlife-dependent recreation does not exceed projected levels.

P Participants will be monitored to ensure that the permitted activities

are conducted in compliance with Refuge regulations.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 133

Description of Proposed Use:

Firewood cutting for personal use to remove down and drift wood in areas

easily accessible to the public. Firewood cutting is also allowed when the

Refuge is preparing to conduct activities where tree removal is necessary or

desirable i.e. road rehabilitation or dike construction.

Anticipated Impacts on Service Lands, Waters, or Interests:

Minimal disturbance to wildlife and wildlife habitat will result from

such harvesting at current and anticipated levels.

Justification:

Firewood cutting is used as a means to help accomplish Refuge wildlife

and recreation objectives. Also, it provides the public with opportunities

to learn and appreciate the values of wetlands, riparian areas, and the

dependence of wildlife upon them. This is especially true in Kansas where

less than 2 percent of the land is in public stewardship. Approximately 60

percent of the Refuge is closed to general public access, from October

into February, to provide wildlife sanctuary.

Determination: Firewood cutting for personal use is compatible.

The Following Stipulations are Necessary to Ensure Compatibility:

P Cutting areas will be monitored by the Refuge to ensure that firewood

harvesting does not exceed compatible levels.

P Participants will be monitored to ensure that the permitted activities

are conducted in compliance with Refuge regulations.

Description of Proposed Use:

Wild food gathering for personal use; including fruit picking, nut

picking, and mushrooming.

Anticipated Impacts on Service Lands, Waters, or Interests:

Minimal disturbance to wildlife and wildlife habitat will result from

such harvesting at current and anticipated levels.

Justification:

Approximately 60 percent of the Refuge is closed to general public access,

from October into February, to provide wildlife sanctuary. At current and

anticipated levels, these activities are sustainable. There will continue to be a

surplus of wild foods, of interest to visitors, sufficient for wildlife needs.

Also it provides the public with opportunities to learn and appreciate

the values of wetlands, riparian areas, and the dependence of wildlife

upon them. This is especially true in Kansas where less than 2 percent

of the land is in public stewardship

Determination: Wild food gathering for personal use is compatible.

The Following Stipulations are Necessary to Ensure Compatibility:

P Gathering areas will be monitored by the Refuge to ensure that wild

food harvesting does not exceed expected levels.

P Participants will be monitored to ensure that the permitted activities

are conducted in compliance with Refuge regulations.
134 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Description of Proposed Use:

Primitive camping.

Anticipated Impacts on Service Lands, Waters, or Interests:

Minimal localized disturbance to wildlife and wildlife habitat will result

from this use at current and anticipated levels.

Justification:

This wildlife oriented activity supports other wildlife-dependent activities

especially hunting. Also, it provides the public with opportunities to learn

and appreciate the values of wetlands, riparian areas, and the dependence

of wildlife upon them. This is especially true in Kansas where less than 2

percent of the land is in public stewardship.

Determination: Primitive camping is compatible.

The Following Stipulations are Necessary to Ensure Compatibility:

P Camping areas will be monitored by the Refuge to ensure that

primitive camping does not exceed expected levels.

P Participants will be monitored to ensure that primitive camping is

conducted in compliance with Refuge regulations.

Description of Selected Management Actions:

Cooperative farming and haying.

Anticipated Impacts on Service Lands, Waters, or Interests:

Farming will provide high caloric food and browse for migrating and

wintering migratory birds and resident wildlife. This food source is in

addition to other habitat provided in the form of wildland wetlands and

vegetation and the moist soil/marsh units.

Haying (in addition to prescribed burning) benefits grassland and edge

dependent wildlife by preventing woody vegetation encroachment into

grassland.

Justification:

These actions are needed to accomplish Refuge purposes.

At this Refuge’s latitude in the great plains, wildlife often use

croplands during migration and wintering. Refuge maintenance of a

cropland program provides crops sought by migratory birds, and in

some instances prevents depredation of crops on private lands. The

cropland program also serves as an example of how best to farm in

riverine systems with minimal use of chemicals.

Determination:

Taking actions to accomplish a purpose is ipso facto compatible with

that purpose. Therefore, management to accomplish Refuge purposes

is compatible with those purposes.

The Following Stipulations are Necessary to Ensure Compatibility:

Not applicable.

Signatures:

Project Leader: _________________________________________________

Review and Concurrence _________________________________________
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 135

Appendix M.

Environmental Assessment

for Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge

Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Table of Contents

Purpose ............................................................................................................ 132

Need ............................................................................................................ 132

Affected Environment ................................................................................. 132

Alternatives Including the Proposed Action

Alternative 1. Continuation of Ongoing Management (No Action) .. 134

Alternative 2. Refuge Closure - Elimination of Public Use and Habitat

Management ..................................................................................... 134

Alternative 3. Planned Management Program - Minimal Habitat

Manipulation, Moderate Increase in Public Use, and

Improvements to Public Use Facilities (Proposed Action) ........ 135

Alternative 4. Full Public Use Development with Expanded

Management Program..................................................................... 136

Environmental Consequences

Alternative 1. Continuation of Ongoing Management (No Action) .. 137

Alternative 2. Refuge Closure - Elimination of Public Use and Habitat

Management ..................................................................................... 138

Alternative 3. Planned Management Program - Minimal Habitat

Manipulation, Moderate Increase in Public Use, and

Improvements to Public Use Facilities (Proposed Action) ........ 139

Alternative 4. Full Public Use Development with Expanded

Management Program..................................................................... 140

Cumulative Impacts and Mitigation ........................................................ 142

Consultation and Coordination ................................................................ 142
136 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Purpose

The purpose of management of the Flint Hills NWR is to facilitate the

restoration, maintenance, and management of natural diversity including

endangered species. Additionally, the CCP facilitates continuity of

management and effective decision making to achieve these ends. The Plan

is intended to provide long-range guidance for the management of this

Refuge based on careful consideration of the physical and biological

characteristics of the land base. It is designed to facilitate achievement of

the Service mission and Refuge goals which center on the protection and

enhancement of wildlife and their habitats and the provision of appropriate

compatible public recreation. The Service supports ecosystem

management. Therefore, a primary focus of Refuge programs is to

contribute toward the accomplishment of the goals of the Arkansas/Red

Rivers Ecosystem Plan.

Need

This action addresses both the needs of the Service to meet its trust

responsibilities and the needs of the local community and the general

public.

The Service has responsibility for stewardship over species that occupy

Service lands and for the protection of cultural resources on these lands.

Flint Hills NWR was established in September 1966 for the following

purpose:

“.... for the conservation, maintenance, and management of wildlife

resources thereof, and habitats thereon, ...” 16 U.S.C. (Fish and

Wildlife Coordination Act).

Specifically, this CCP proposes a planned management program to

implement actions that meet the operational needs of the Refuge to

conduct management to benefit wildlife, particularly the fall and spring

needs of migratory waterfowl populations and endangered species.

To meet its trust responsibilities, the Service needs to provide a diversity

of quality habitats for wildlife and protection for the species using these

habitats. The Service also needs to ensure that all recreational activities

occurring on the Refuge are compatible with the purposes for which the

Refuge was established. To facilitate management and ensure these ends

are achieved, the Service needs to develop plans which will maximize the

cost/benefit ratio of management actions.

The needs of the public, primarily the local area communities, are for a

place where traditional recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and

wildlife observation can be enjoyed. There is increased public interest for

more interpretive and educational activities on the Refuge such as

interpretive hiking trails, canoeing areas, display exhibits, wildlife viewing

areas, and outdoor classrooms for field ecology investigations.

This Environmental Assessment (EA) will accompany the Flint Hills CCP.

Both of these documents will be available for public review and comment

prior to the issuance of a final CCP.

Affected Environment

Flint Hills NWR is located on the western edge of the tallgrass prairie

region and lies within the broad, flat Neosho River Valley in Lyon and

Coffey Counties, Kansas. The Refuge was established in September 1966

on 18,500 acres of land within the flood pool of the John Redmond

Reservoir. The Service manages the lands through a cooperative

agreement with the Corps. Nearby towns include Burlington, Hartford,

Neosho Rapids, and Emporia.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 137

Flint Hills NWR is readily accessible to more than 1.5 million Kansans

within a 100-mile radius of the Refuge from such major cities as Wichita,

Topeka, and Kansas City.

The major recreation activities in the area include hunting, fishing, and

boating at reservoirs, lakes, State parks, and waterfowl and game

management areas. In addition to John Redmond Reservoir, numerous

other lakes are within 50 miles of the Refuge. The existing recreational

activities occurring on the Refuge are not necessarily unique to the area as

these activities can be found at other nearby facilities.

Historically, the lands that comprise the present day Refuge were

periodically inundated by naturally occurring floods. The John Redmond

Reservoir now impounds the Neosho River downstream from the Refuge.

Depending on the flood pool of the Reservoir, portions of the Refuge are

inundated with water for extended periods during the rainy season. As a

result, many plant communities on the Refuge, particularly those in lower

elevations, are more often inundated by flood water and vulnerable to the

invasion of weed species and exotics. Depending on the extent and duration

of inundation, the flooding can disrupt management operations and destroy

habitat restoration projects.

The valley grassland soils are typical of the Neosho floodplain and have

been plowed since the turn of the century. Part of the Flint Hills area

remains as a grassland prairie with only a few remnant tracts of native

cordgrass. Historically, the majority of lands within the Refuge have been

in agricultural use with this continuing to be the major land use even after

the Corps acquired the land for flood control purposes. Based on national

Service guidelines, the purpose of farming on Flint Hills NWR is for

maintenance of migratory waterfowl; however, the amount of land in

production is more than that needed for Refuge waterfowl maintenance

objectives. Over time, the amount of land farmed has decreased primarily

due to the Corps raising the conservation pool (lake level) two feet in

elevation resulting in a significant portion of farmland being flooded. Other

reasons for decreasing farmland has been the establishment of riparian

buffers, wetland development, and creation or attrition of cooperators. The

majority of productive farmland is located on the higher elevation lands of

the western half of the Refuge.

The Refuge habitats consist of wooded riparian areas along the Neosho River,

river floodplain, seasonally flooded and permanent wetlands (annually flooded

lands), grasslands (cordgrass prairie and tallgrass prairie), hardwood forest,

brushland, and croplands. The Refuge hosts a diversity of wildlife on these

habitats. Management of these habitats for migratory waterfowl in fall and

spring is a primary focus of the Flint Hills NWR. Many other species

benefit from this management such as shorebirds, marsh birds,

amphibians, fish, aquatic plants, and insects. Grain production for geese

and ducks also provide forage for white-tailed deer and habitat for quail,

turkey, and many small mammals. Riparian, grassland, and forested areas

provide a variety of valuable habitats for neotropical migrants, raptors,

mammals, and reptiles. These varied habitats are also home to the bald

eagle with other areas containing suitable habitat for the Neosho madtom.

The bald eagle and peregrine falcon are endangered or threatened species

documented on the Refuge. Several species occur that are considered

endangered or threatened by the State of Kansas, although none of these

species have been directly observed on the Refuge. Adequate habitat does

exist for their survival, and they could potentially be inhabitants on Refuge

lands in the future. These species include: Mead’s milkweed, western

prairie fringed orchid (both federally listed), alligator snapping turtle,

warty-backed mussel, heel splitter mussel, northern crayfish frog, Neosho

madtom, and the blue sucker.

A full description of the Refuge, its resources, and its economic setting are

included in the CCP.
138 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Alternatives Including the Proposed Action

Alternative 1: Continuation of Ongoing Management

 (No Action)

The No Action alternative would continue current management and would

not involve extensive restoration of riparian and grassland habitats, the

development of moist soil units from unproductive farmlands, and

improvements to roads, interpretive, and administrative facilities.

This alternative would result in access roads remaining as they are with

only minor upgrades or maintenance. Recreational opportunities would

continue to be limited to traditional programs under existing approved

hunting and fishing plans. The Neosho River will continue to provide public

fishing, and the primary Refuge hunt area will remain south of the River.

Public use facilities would remain essentially the same except for

maintenance. New directional or interpretive signs would not be installed,

facilities would not be upgraded to withstand flooding, and viewing

opportunities for wildlife would be limited to the existing roads open to the

public. The current headquarters facilities would not be improved or

expanded to accommodate more visitors. This alternative would assume no

significant increases in public use which would remain at 50,000 visitors.

Current habitat management practices would continue, including

approximately 3,500 acres of Refuge lands farmed with decreases only

occurring as a result of individual withdrawals from the Refuge cooperative

farming program. Total wetland acres would remain the same unless

increased by natural flooding. No active management practices such as

prescribed fire, moist soil management, or re-vegetation techniques would

be implemented to restore retired croplands into native grasses, restore

habitats inundated by flooding, control exotic weeds, and enhance wetlands

and riparian areas. Management actions that protect wildlife habitat, such

as law enforcement, would continue at current levels. Additional biological

information on Refuge resources would be obtained through incidental

surveys and appropriate information would not necessarily be available to

evaluate current management decisions.

Under this alternative no effort would be made to acquire prime habitat on

land made available by the pending closure of the KAAP near Parsons,

Kansas.

Alternative 2 : Refuge Closure - Elimination of Public Use and

Habitat Management

This alternative would close the Refuge entirely to the public through

closure of all access roads. Traditional public recreational activities such as

hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation would be discontinued.

Management practices would not be implemented to improve habitats. All

agricultural areas would be taken out of production. Refuge habitats,

including retired croplands, flood damaged areas, and altered areas, would

evolve through natural succession of native annual and perennial species as

well as exotic weed species. Management would consist of flood damage

repairs that affect adjacent landowners and road maintenance on those

roads needed by the Refuge staff to conduct minimal enforcement and

ensure Refuge closure. Because the Refuge lands are owned by the Corps

and managed under a cooperative agreement between the Service and the

Corps, this alternative would violate the terms of this agreement.

Therefore, this alternative was not considered a viable option. Terms of the

agreement can be found in Appendix J.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 139

Alternative 3 : Planned Management Program - Minimal

Habitat Manipulation, Moderate Increase in Public Use, and

Improvements to Public Use Facilities (Proposed Action)

The proposed action is to adopt and implement the actions presented in the

Flint Hills NWR CCP. The objectives and strategies detailed in the Plan

will provide for short- and long-term conservation and enhancement of

Refuge resources and values.

Under this alternative, existing roads would be maintained and improved,

and roads would be expanded as necessary to accommodate increasing

recreational use of the Refuge. As recreational use of the Refuge increased,

improvements would be made to accommodate additional traffic, including

more parking areas, automobile pull-outs, and placement of informational

and educational signs.

The Refuge would gradually expand educational and outreach programs to

meet the increasing visitation and public interest in Refuge environmental

education programs. This will include the installation, in phases, of viewing

and photo blinds, improving existing nature trails, and developing

materials and programs for outreach and education. Hunting for migratory

birds, upland game, and big game will continue to be restricted on the

Refuge as it currently exists and within compliance of the regulations of

the State of Kansas. Fishing regulations and access points will also remain

the same. Hunting and fishing programs will be reviewed for opportunities

to improve the quality of these public uses while still remaining compatible

with the purpose of the Refuge in maintaining wildlife resources. The law

enforcement program will become more effective through the addition of a

law enforcement officer to the Refuge staff.

The Refuge habitat management program will involve implementing active

management practices such as prescribed fire, establishing buffer strips,

and control of weed species to accelerate restoration of native species and

enhance the quality of these habitats for wildlife. Refuge lands adjacent to

the Neosho River, including marginal farm lands due to flooding potential,

will be restored to natural habitats to improve the hydrology of the River

system and benefit native aquatic and riparian communities. Moist soil

management strategies will be implemented on 2,000 acres of Refuge lands

to increase and enhance wetlands and provide forage and protected resting

areas for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds. Approximately 2,500 to

3,000 acres of Refuge lands optimal for crop production will continue to be

farmed to provide forage for migratory birds and resident wildlife. A

prescribed fire program will be implemented to burn approximately 800

acres annually over a 15-year period, and more than 400 acres of Refuge

land annually will be treated to control noxious weeds and nonnative

species. Existing areas of native bluestem and cordgrass prairie, old

oxbows, naturally occurring low water areas, riparian, timber, floodplain,

and hardwood forest as well as the aquatic riverine habitats will continue to

be protected and enhanced through planned management strategies.

The Refuge’s biological program will become more focused and include

comprehensive inventories of wildlife species and habitats improving the

Refuge’s basic biological information. This will allow the staff to better

evaluate habitat management decisions in the future.

Acquisition of prime habitat on land made available by the pending closure

of the KAAP near Parsons, Kansas would be pursued under this alternative.
140 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Alternative 4 : Full Public Use Development with Expanded

Management Program

This alternative would incorporate the changes to the habitat and wildlife

management components of the program called for in the proposed

alternative. However, this alternative would involve more concentrated

efforts in developing the Refuge’s public use programs and facilities

beyond the existing program.

This alternative would develop extensive public use facilities including a

wildlife observation and interpretive system with the following features:

approximately 15 to 24 miles of hiking trails with parking and pull-outs, a

10-mile interpretive canoe trail along the Neosho River from the Highway

130 bridge into Hartford, south to the Strawn Recreation Area with

parking, put-in and take-out areas at either end of the trail, and

development of two motorized tour routes east of Hartford and over the

railroad grade south of the River which will require additional road

improvement on a total of 12 miles of road and construction of a new

bridge.

This alternative also considers the future development of an Interpretive

Visitor Center at a site east of Highway 130 near Hartford, Kansas. A

visitor center would expand public use of the Refuge, particularly from

people traveling in the area to other recreational sites. The capital expense

to relocate this facility to gain additional exposure to passing motorists was

determined not to be cost effective during the master planning process

initiated in the 1980’s. At that time, national standards and criteria did not

warrant the expenditure for a full-scale interpretation of the Refuge in a

single structure for Flint Hills NWR.

Management efforts to develop the Refuge’s public use programs with this

intensity would require a substantial increase in annual operational

funding and the addition of 1 or 2 ORP’s or Public Use Specialists within

five years.

Although it is evaluated here for its environmental impacts, it is not

considered a viable alternative with the existing budgetary constraints.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 141

Environmental Consequences

Alternative 1 : Continuation of Ongoing Management

 (No Action)

Impacts on Wildlife and Habitat

Implementing the No Action alternative would assume no significant

changes in Refuge operations. This alternative offers a strong level of

protection for the natural resources of the Refuge without a planned longterm management approach. By adopting the No Action alternative, the

Refuge would anticipate no negative impacts to the overall landscape.

Unlike the proposed alternative, efforts to re-vegetate lands and restore

wetlands would be minimal. While the existing management would have no

negative effects on biological resources, a lack of a strategic context of

publicly accepted goals and objectives would make it difficult for Refuge

Managers to implement resource priorities and justify annual budget

requests. Indirectly, this could slow progress toward improving habitat and

wildlife conditions.

Because the KAAP property would not be acquired, the protection of the

encompassed habitat would not take place.

Impacts on Endangered and Threatened Species

Little or no impacts on listed species are anticipated under current

management practices. Existing hunting and fishing programs have been

reviewed, and these uses were determined not to impact bald eagles or

their habitats. Eagles prefer extensive woodland edges adjacent to open

water and wetlands with high levels of waterfowl and fish. The Refuge

provides those habitat features within a sanctuary closed to public use.

Under current Refuge management strategies, the protection of bald

eagles is a primary concern; future conflicts regarding public use

development would always be resolved in favor of the endangered species.

Other State listed species have not been documented on the Refuge at this

time.

Impacts on Public Use

The Refuge would not increase opportunities for recreational activities

such as hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. The Neosho River would

continue to provide public fishing, and the primary Refuge hunt area will

remain south of the River. Approximately 43 miles of existing roads would

have minor upgrades and maintenance. Public use facilities would remain

essentially the same except for maintenance. New directional or

interpretive signs would not be installed, facilities would not be upgraded

to withstand flooding, and the current headquarters facilities would not be

improved or expanded to accommodate more visitors. Without facility

upgrades, increased signs, and implementation of outreach programs,

public use is expected to remain at approximately 50,000 visitors annually.

Impacts on Air and Water Quality

This alternative would have no impact on air quality. Automobile traffic

through the Refuge would not be at levels that could result in measurable

air pollution. With the conversion of retired farm lands to native habitats

and restoration of riparian and wetlands, water quality would improve

through a decrease of non-point source pollution.
142 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Impacts on Aesthetic and Visual Resources

Limited change would occur from the current conditions with the exception

of natural changes as a result of habitat restoration.

Impacts on Archaeological and Historical Resources

This alternative would have no known impact on archaeological and

historical resources.

Impacts on Socio-economic Resources

This alternative provides for continuation of existing hunting and fishing

opportunities for citizens. Under this alternative, the Refuge would not

have any new programs or facilities to encourage more visitors to the area

and would not generate additional revenue to the community.

Refuge croplands will continue to be farmed for the benefit of wildlife and

to reduce cropland depredation by waterfowl on neighboring lands by the

most efficient means such as multi-year sharecropping or cooperative

agreements. Under this alternative, the Refuge would not seek to

withdraw lands from production. Decreases would be the result of

decisions not to farm by the cooperators. The economic impacts of these

decisions are unrelated to this alternative.

Alternative 2 : Refuge Closure - Elimination of Public Use and

Habitat Management

Under this alternative, no management practices would be implemented to

restore or enhance habitats, and Refuge lands would evolve through

natural succession. An increased invasion of weed species and exotics

would occur in areas frequently inundated by flood water. Hunting, fishing,

or other public use would not be allowed, and no active management of

wildlife except enforcement of the Refuge closure. This was not considered

a viable option since the Service has entered into a cooperative agreement

with the Corps for the management of this area to benefit wildlife and to

provide recreational opportunities for the public. This agreement can be

found in Appendix J.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 143

Alternative 3 : Planned Management Program - Minimal

Habitat Manipulation, Moderate Increase in Public Use, and

Improvements to Public Use Facilities (Proposed Action)

Impacts on Wildlife and Habitat

This alternative offers a planned long-term approach for the active

management of the Refuge wildlife populations, habitats, and public use

opportunities. It involves the expansion of existing efforts for habitat

restoration and enhancement. Active management will primarily involve

providing food, sanctuary, and water needs to meet the Refuge wildlife

population objectives and the objectives of the Central Flyway Plan for

waterfowl management. This alternative includes the following

management strategies that will benefit nesting grassland birds, foraging

raptors, migrating and nesting waterfowl, geese, marsh birds, and

neotropical migrants, reseeding retired croplands to native grasses and

cordgrass, creating native vegetation buffers to protect feeding waterfowl

from disturbance, restoring riparian vegetation to improve floodplain and

river hydrology, implementation of moist soil wetland management, and

control of weeds and exotic species.

Acquisition of the KAAP property would allow for the protection of species

not currently found at Flint Hills NWR.

Impacts on Endangered Species

Under this alternative, listed species would be provided added protection

through increased surveillance and law enforcement. The Service will

actively pursue opportunities to strengthen or improve partnerships and

cooperative efforts with other agencies and individuals to improve habitat

protection for endangered species. Also under this alternative, systematic

biological surveys and inventories of the Refuge resources would identify

threatened and endangered species using the Refuge. Management actions

could then be implemented to protect them and enhance their habitats.

Impacts on Air and Water Quality

This alternative involves expanded use of fire as a management tool on the

Refuge which could cause temporary impacts to air quality. Prescribed

fires would be managed and monitored in accordance with Service policy.

Lack of good pre-suppression and suppression capability would probably

result in larger and more intense fires.

This alternative involves improving visitor services and facilities which

would increase the volume of traffic on the Refuge tour route. Increased

visitation could have detrimental affects by disturbing feeding and resting

wildlife. Air pollution and oil leaks could also impact vegetation and water

quality. However, automobile traffic through the Refuge would not increase

to such levels that would result in measurable air pollution. These public

uses would be periodic with recovery possible between high use periods.

Water quality will be improved by Refuge management operations.

Through a decrease in croplands and restoration of native habitats, river

sediment loading and natural filtration would reduce non-point source

pollution into the Neosho River.

Impacts on Aesthetic and Visual Resources

Development of various educational, interpretive, or public use sites on the

Refuge would reduce the natural atmosphere that many visitors seek.

Open vistas or other views might be degraded by the addition of a parking

area or directional signs.
144 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Impacts on Cultural and Historic Resources

Impacts on cultural and historic resources would be evaluated at the time

of construction of roads, parking areas, outdoor classrooms, hiking trails,

and other developed public use areas. However, such development would

be designed to have little or no impact.

Impacts on Socio-economic Resources

With a reduction in croplands, a decrease will occur in local cooperators

farming the Refuge and a potential decrease in revenue in the community.

However, improved visitor services and facilities would encourage more

public use opportunities and more visitors. The potential for increased

tourism in the area would generate revenue for the local economy.

Alternative 4 : Full Public Use Development with Expanded

Management Program

While this alternative is similar to Alternative 3, it does involve more

concentrated efforts in developing the Refuge’s public use programs and

facilities beyond the current program.

Impacts on Wildlife and Habitat Management

As in Alternative 3, this Alternative involves implementing active

management strategies in a planned effort to protect, restore, and enhance

Refuge habitats to increase biological diversity and benefit wildlife

populations. Like Alternative 3, this Alternative involves expansion of

existing efforts to restore habitats including the control of nonnative

species and weeds, riparian and grassland restoration, enhancing wetland

habitats through the implementation of moist soil management strategies,

and retirement of excess croplands and conversion to natural habitats. This

alternative would potentially increase disturbance to feeding and resting

wildlife by increasing wildlife observers in the field and traffic on tour

routes. Vegetation buffers will diminish the disturbance to wildlife from

increased vehicular traffic.

The expansion of wildlife observation, photography, educational

opportunities, hunting, and fishing, even if determined compatible, would

have certain negative impacts on habitat, plants, and wildlife species

depending on locations selected for development, the level of control

imposed on the hunting, and the duration of hunts. Compatibility

determinations for the expansion of any such proposed uses beyond the

current program would have to be undertaken prior to implementation.

Coordination with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks would

need to take place.

Impacts on Endangered Species

Under this Alternative, listed species would be provided added protection

through increased surveillance and law enforcement. The Service would

actively pursue opportunities to strengthen or improve partnerships and

cooperative efforts with other agencies and individuals to improve habitat

protection for endangered species. Also under this Alternative, systematic

biological surveys and inventories of the Refuge resources would identify

threatened and endangered species using the Refuge. Management actions

could then be implemented to protect them and enhance their habitats.

Expansion of fishing and hunting opportunities could affect endangered

species recovery efforts if these opportunities occur in areas used by bald

eagles. Although important habitats for endangered species would be

protected from the impacts of increased and expanded public use

programs, all developments would necessitate analysis with respect to the

requirements of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. Compatibility

determinations for hunting, fishing, and other public uses would be revised.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 145

Impacts on Air and Water Quality

This alternative involves improving visitor services and facilities which

would increase the volume of traffic on the Refuge tour route. Increased

visitation could have detrimental affects by disturbing feeding and resting

wildlife. Air pollution and oil leaks could also impact vegetation and water

quality. It is anticipated that these public uses would be periodic with

recovery possible between high use periods. As in Alternative 3, this

Alternative involves expanded use of fire as a management tool on the

Refuge which could cause temporary impacts to the Refuge’s air quality.

Prescribed fires would be managed and monitored in accordance with

Service policy. Lack of good pre-suppression and suppression capability

would probably result in larger and more intense fires.

Habitat restoration efforts, particularly in wetlands adjacent to the Neosho

River and riparian floodplain vegetation, would capture sediment from

runoff, provide natural filtration, and reduce non-point source pollution

into the River.

Impacts on Aesthetic and Visual Resources

Development of various educational, interpretive, or public use sites on the

Refuge would reduce the natural atmosphere that many visitors seek.

Open vistas or other views might be degraded by the addition of a parking

area or directional signs.

Impacts on Cultural and Historic Resources

Impacts on cultural and historic resources would be evaluated at the time

of construction of roads, parking areas, outdoor classrooms, hiking trails,

and other developed public use areas. However, development most likely

would have little or no impact.

Impacts on Socio-economic Resources

With a reduction in croplands, a decrease will occur in local cooperators

farming the Refuge and a potential decrease in revenue in the community.

Expansion and development of visitor services, outreach efforts,

educational programs, and facilities would encourage more public use

opportunities and more visitors to the area. The Refuge staff would seek

partnerships with the local community in developing the public use

program and facilities. By promoting the Refuge as an asset to local

tourism, this partnership would benefit the Service by providing local

support for its mission and benefit the surrounding communities by

generating revenue for the local economy.
146 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Cumulative Impacts and Mitigation

Cumulative impacts include impacts on the environment which result from

incremental effects of the proposed action when added to other past,

present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions. Cumulative impacts

can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking

place over a period of time. Implementing Alternative 3 (Proposed Action)

would reduce the potential for cumulative impacts because of the strategic

approach to managing Refuge programs including wildlife-dependent

public uses and the consideration of resource conflicts and opportunities

within a broad management framework. This would be a change from the

fragmented issue/problem oriented approach inherent in the No Action

Alternative 1.

Where site development activities are to be proposed during the next 5 to

10 years, each activity would be given appropriate NEPA consideration. At

that time, any required mitigation activities would be designed into the

specific project to protect fish and wildlife and their habitats and to reduce

the level of impacts to the environment.

Mitigation measures are necessary when effects determined through the

NEPA process are anticipated to significantly impact wildlife, habitats, or

the human environment. The management activities proposed in

Alternative 3 are not intended to produce environmental impacts at

significant levels to warrant mitigation measures. However, the activities

listed below will help reduce the risks that any negative effect will occur.

Long-term monitoring will help in determining actual effects and how the

Service should respond.

P The Refuge would closely regulate proposed activities to lessen any

potential impacts to plant and wildlife species particularly during

sensitive periods such as breeding and nesting seasons.

P Public use would be restricted by season or specific areas would be

closed to minimize disturbance.

P The Refuge would prohibit any activities in areas where endangered

species would be negatively effected.

Consultation and Coordination

In an ongoing effort to involve the local community and officials in the CCP

process, the Service and RMCI prepared and distributed a fact sheet on

October 14, 1998. The fact sheet described the CCP process and defined

the comment period. The 45-day comment period started October 14, 1998,

and ended November 28, 1998. An information repository has also been

established and is maintained with information relevant to the Refuge for

public review. The repository is located at Flint Hills NWR headquarters

located near Hartford, Kansas. RMCI continues to update the mailing list

based on responses from interested parties. An Open House was held at

Flint Hills NWR headquarters on November 5, 1998, based on public

response to the CCP process. The Service published a formal notice in the

Federal Register requesting comments and advice from the public in

September 1998. Comments were received, considered, and to the degree

possible, they have been incorporated into this document.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 147

Appendix N.

Flint Hills NWR

CCP Mailing List

Federal Officials

P Senator Sam Brownback, Washington, D.C. and Topeka, KS

P Senator Pat Roberts, Washington, D.C. and Topeka, KS

P Congressman Jerry Moran, Washington, D.C. and Hutchinson, KS

P Congressman Jim Ryun, Washington, D.C. and Topeka, KS

Federal Agencies

P US Army Corps of Engineers, Burlington, KS

P USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, Burlington, KS

P Farm Services Agency, Burlington, KS

P USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, Emporia, KS

P Farm Services Agency, Emporia, KS

P Hartford Post Office, Hartford, KS

P U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Air Quality Branch, Lakewood, CO;

Albuquerque, NM; Anchorage, AK; Arapaho NWR, CO;

Arlington, VA; Arrowwood NWR, ND; Atlanta, GA; Crescent

Lake/N. Platte, NE; Denver, CO; Fort Snelling, MN; Hadley, MA;

Juneau, AK; Medicine Lake NWR, MT; Portland, OR;

Sacramento, CA; Sand Lake NWR, SD; Shepherdstown, WV;

Sherwood, OR; Tewaukon NWR, ND; Waubay NWR, SD; Quivira

NWR, KS; Kirwin NWR, KS; Marais des Cygnes NWR, KS;

Kansas Ecological Services, Manhattan, KS.

P National Park Service, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, KS

P USGS, Biological Resources Division, Fort Collins, CO

P US EPA, Denver, CO

State Officials

P Bill Graves, Governor, Topeka, KS

P Peggy L. Long, State Representative, Hamilton, KS

P Harry Stephens, State Senator, Topeka, KS and Emporia, KS

State Agencies

P Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Pratt, KS

P Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Emporia, KS

City/County/Local Governments

P Lyon County Commissioners, Emporia, KS

P Coffey County Commissioners, Burlington, KS

P Chamber of Commerce, Burlington, KS

P Chamber of Commerce, Emporia, KS

P USD 252, Hartford, KS

P Hartford City Hall, Mayor Steve Burris, Hartford, KS

Libraries

P Emporia Library, Emporia, KS
148 Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000

Organizations

P Ducks Unlimited, Manhattan, KS

P Flint Hills Audubon, Madison, KS

P The Nature Conservancy, Topeka, KS

P Western Resources, Topeka, KS

P Kansas Livestock Association, Topeka, KS

P Wild Turkey Federation, Emporia, KS

P Basin Advisory Board, Pittsburg, KS

P National Wildlife Refuge Association, Colorado Springs, CO

P Central Mountain & Plain Section, TWS, Fort Collins, CO

P Wildlife Management Institute, Washington, D.C.

P KRA Corporation/Fish and Wildlife Reference Ser., Bethesda, MD

P Audubon Society, Washington, D.C.

P Defenders of Wildlife, Washington, D.C.

P The Wilderness Society, Washington, D.C.

Newspapers

P Emporia Gazette, Emporia, KS

P Coffey County Republican, Burlington, KS

Schools/Universities

P Professor H. Paul Friesema, Evanston, IL

Individuals

Donald Atherly

Bill’s Hardware & Electric

Dennis Darbyshire

Kenneth B. Dill

Mark Dill

Pat Finnerty

Jack Freund

Orville Gilkison

Hartford State Bank

Bill Hamman

Jay Hamman

Kenny Hamman

James Hines

Dave Pace

Bruce Pearson

Jim Peterson

Jim Rivers

Randall Schemm

Ron St. Bonnett

George Walker

Dean Wilson

Larry Wilson
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan - June 2000 149

Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge

P.O. Box 128

530 West Maple

Hartford, KS 66854

316/392 5553

r6rw_flh@fws.gov

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service

http://www.fws.gov

For Refuge Information

1 800/344 WILD

June 2000

Egrets, Mike Blair, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks