About
Since 1996, KVHA has worked to strengthen watershed communities in Kansas by coordinating grassroots restoration and education projects with agency resources.
The Heritage Alliance’s partner-building approaches and hands-on techniques have made it one of Kansas’ most innovative environmental non-profits.
KVHA is especially interested in past, present, and future relationships between water quality and quality of life.
Through KVHA people and partners with diverse backgrounds and perspectives collaborate on grassroots projects that protect and conserve the cultural and natural heritages of the Kansas River Valley.
Major Programs and Projects
Kansas StreamLink: Volunteer Stream Monitoring & K-12 Watershed Experiences StreamLink began in the spring of 1998 as a means to connect stream teams in the Kansas River Valley. The program began providing services statewide in 2001. Wakarusa Watershed Restoration & Protection: Community Watershed Stewardship & Resource Management (KVHA is a WRAPS partner.)Wakarusa Wetland Learners: An environmental education initiative that builds community involvement with wetland protection through hands-on field trips to wetlands in the Wakarusa River Valley. (KHVA is one of several partners.)
- Coon Creek Wildlife Area: Volunteer-based ecosystem restoration A kiosk and overlook bench have been installed to help the public understand and appreciate this narrow valley.
Mudscapes: A Hands-On Group Learning Experience in Watershed Community Planning Internship Program: Over 20 individuals have taken part in KVHA’s internship program since it was established in 2000.
Printed Publications:
Catfish Cookies By Barbara Higgins-Dover (2007)
Exploring the Kaw Valley: A guide to the natural and historic treasures of the Kansas River Valley By Lynn Byczynski (2002)
Caring for the Kaw: Citizen’s Guide to Water Quality Protection
Basic Stream Assessment Workshop Training Manual Notebook & The StreamLink Program Training Manual Notebook (materials compilation & writings by KVHA/StreamLink Staff & Volunteers)
Periodicals: The Water Shed, The Dragonfly Messenger, and The Wakarusa Review
