Konza Prairie Response to COVID-19 (updated August 16, 2020)
Kansas State University remains in “limited operations” status in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection and potential spread in the community. However, the university has formulated plans for a phased reactivation of KSU research facilities in a way that maintains community safety in the wake of COVID-19. These plans are based on university-wide criteria that align with national and local requirements and guidance to move through successive phases. You can find more information about the KSU Framework for Reopening here: https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/reopening/. Each department and unit, including the Konza Prairie Biological Station, is required to develop and submit a phased reopening plan. We are currently in Phase III of our reopening plan. On-site research and general operations are allowed, but all staff and researchers must follow state, local, and university guidelines to minimize the risk of COVID-19 spread. This includes social distancing, wearing face masks when distancing is not possible, limiting numbers of individuals at one time in labs, office, and other on-site facilities, washing hands often, and disinfecting surfaces between uses. Gatherings are limited to no more than 50 people without prior authorization and a valid permit from the county. On-site lodging is available for visiting researchers, but at a reduced capacity and with restricted use of shared space by different visiting research groups. If you are an off-campus visitor or have questions about conducting research on Konza, please contact the Director (John Blair, jblair@ksu.edu) for additional information and guidance.
Non-research activities on Konza remain restricted until further notice, with the exception of the use of the Nature Trail (see below). Most meetings, tours, group visits, and on-site K-12 educational activities have been canceled through the fall semester. Docent-led activities and tours are also prohibited until further notice. KPBS offices are open and staffed, but non-essential KPBS staff should continue to work remotely when possible.
The Nature Trail remains open to the public. However, please consider risks and use appropriate measures to limit potential disease spread while using the Nature Trail. Do not use the trail if you are or have been recently ill; Do not use the trail if you have traveled to a high-risk area or had contact with a COVID-19 positive person in the past 14 days; Practice social distancing and do not gather in large groups; Minimize person-to-person contact and follow other CDC, state, and local guidelines. Of course, please also follow the posted rules (no dogs or bikes, stay on the trail at all times, etc.).
We expect additional changes to our site use rules and policies as the local situation evolves and as state and university guidelines are modified. We will update as necessary.
