Protecting Wetlands, Streams and Habitats
The Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (KAWS) has a mission to ensure the future of wetlands, streams and adjacent riparian habitats as an integral part of our Kansas heritage and landscape. The organization recognizes that if people can have positive and safe experiences on rivers, they are more likely to value and protect those resources. Therefore, as part of a new KAWS effort, the Safe and Accessible Rivers Initiative involves adding street crossing and river mile information to the upstream sides of bridges along the Arkansas River National Water Trail (ARNWT). Such information is critical for paddlers to know the distance they have traveled and for first responders in emergency situations.
Ensuring Enjoyable and Safe River Usage
In honor of Chris’ love for the outdoors and people, the Chris Mikesell Foundation assists organizations like the KAWS that preserve and protect the environment, as well as create opportunities for people to experience nature safely. Therefore, the Chris Mikesell Foundation provided a $1,000 grant to the KAWS in 2021 that was to be used for the 18-month bridge signage project along the ARNWT.