AGP Executive Report

Tick-bite surge: Kansas and the Midwest are seeing more ER visits tied to tick bites, with Kansas tracking higher tick-borne illness activity since 2020; health officials stress prevention—repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, staying out of brush, and checking pets and skin after time outdoors. El Niño watch: NOAA has officially declared El Niño conditions underway, with forecasts warning it could strengthen into a very strong event later in 2026–27—raising the odds of major weather swings that could affect summer plans across North America. World Cup heat and climate pressure: As the 2026 tournament begins, coverage highlights extreme-heat risks for players and fans, with climate impacts and El Niño cited as factors behind hotter conditions and storm disruptions. Kansas outdoors education: KU’s Native Medicinal Plant Garden is hosting a summer solstice tour on June 21, spotlighting native species and research plantings in an ADA-accessible setting. Local community health: HaysMed’s Lifelong Vitality Project is moving forward with a $1.1 million outdoor fitness and recreation build aimed at free, all-ages wellness access. Local safety and environment-adjacent: Law enforcement is investigating a body recovered from Perry Lake in Jefferson County; authorities reported no apparent foul play.

Water Safety Alerts: KDHE rescinded a Do Not Drink order for Qwik Fuel, LLC in Thomas County after lab results showed no bacterial contamination, but it still warns against giving the water to infants and says boiling won’t reduce nitrates. Public Health: Kansas tick season concerns are rising, with Kansas and Midwest ER visits for tick bites tracking higher; officials urge prevention like long sleeves, repellents, and prompt tick checks. Agriculture & Climate Resilience: Sen. Jerry Moran pushed for stronger Conservation Reserve Program flexibility so drought-hit producers can hay and graze CRP acres without turning them into wildfire fuel. Wildlife & Yard Management: A K-State wildlife expert cautioned that bird feeders can draw in predators and increase disease risk for backyard birds. Invasive Pest Watch: USDA livestock officials reported new New World screwworm cases in Texas, underscoring the threat to Kansas agriculture. Community & Environment Funding: Russell County USD 407 approved sewer/water pipe liner work and discussed grants, including a Kansas Clean Vehicles Program match to retire an old diesel bus.

Tick-Bite Surge: Kansas and the Midwest are seeing more tick bites this spring, with ER visits rising and Kansas tracking tick-borne illnesses like ehrlichiosis; health officials stress prevention—proper clothing, repellents, permethrin-treated gear, and quick tick checks. Severe Weather Readiness: A Riley County tornado on June 4 drew scrutiny after officials said no watch was issued because the threat for tornadoes wasn’t high enough at the time; the National Weather Service noted some tornadoes spin up fast and warnings can rely on spotters. Data Centers vs. Communities: In Edgerton, a proposed data center was rejected by the planning commission after residents raised concerns about impacts on water, energy, noise, and light; nearby Lawrence is also weighing a data-center moratorium. Heat and Climate Risks: World Cup coverage highlights how extreme heat and storms could disrupt play, with climate analysis finding most matches likely to exceed performance-stressing temperatures. Kansas Lawn Care: Kansas State horticulture experts say the best weed control is a healthy lawn—mow at the right height, avoid scalping, water deeply and less often, and keep turf vigorous to crowd out weeds.

Data Center Fight in Kansas: Edgerton’s planning commission rejected a proposed DAMAC Digital data center, after residents raised concerns about impacts on neighbors and the environment, including energy and water use; the pushback is part of a broader wave of local opposition across the metro, with Lawrence residents urging a temporary moratorium while the city studies permanent rules. Local Governance & Public Health: In Overland Park, a family says mold forced them out of a nearly $10 million home, sparking “public health alert” signage and lawsuits tied to the builder. Livestock Health Watch: USDA confirmed New World screwworm detections in the U.S., with cases in Texas and a pet in New Mexico; Kansas officials say cold winters likely limit survival, but the risk to livestock remains a concern. Outdoor Safety: Kansas health officials warn tick activity may rise with warmer weather, urging prevention steps like proper clothing, repellents, and quick checks after outdoor time. Climate & Heat Context: A new analysis says climate change will raise the chance of performance-impairing heat in most 2026 World Cup matches, including in host cities like Kansas City. Wildlife & Nature Notes: Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission set a June 18 meeting with public comment and proposed regulation updates, including night vision hunting and boating fees. Community Outdoors: A Hayden High Girl Scout mapped local trails with GPS coordinates so first responders can find people faster in emergencies. Weather Snapshot: Stacker ranked the coldest Junes in Kansas since 1895, using long-term temperature records.

Water Quality Update: KDHE rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Goff in Nemaha County after follow-up testing found no bacteriological contamination. Wildlife & Outdoor Health: Kansas health officials are urging extra tick precautions as warmer weather boosts tick activity, emphasizing repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, and prompt tick checks. Public Lands & Wildlife Management: The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission will meet June 18 in Lindsborg, with proposed regulation changes on night vision hunting and duplicate boat decal fees, plus updates on fishing, deer seasons, and trail cameras. Agriculture & Drought Resilience: A Farm Service Agency Kansas update explains how the Livestock Forage Program works, including drought-monitor triggers that can lead to indemnity payments for forage loss. Invasive Species Watch: Kansas continues its response plan for the “new world” screwworm after a detected case in Texas, with Kansas monitoring and preparedness steps for livestock. Grasslands Conservation: NFWF announced nearly $18.5 million in Great Plains grants to conserve grasslands and support ranching communities, targeting species like grassland birds and pronghorn.

Invasive pest alert for Kansas agriculture: The USDA confirmed new New World screwworm cases, including a dog in New Mexico—far beyond the earlier Texas cluster—prompting heightened inspection and outreach as Kansas tracks the threat and response planning continues. Heat risk at major events: Multiple reports warn FIFA’s 2026 World Cup heat protections may fall short, with scientists saying many matches could exceed safety limits and calling for stronger safeguards for players and fans. Tick season guidance: Kansas health officials urged residents to prevent tick bites as warmer weather boosts tick activity, recommending repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, trail precautions, and prompt tick checks. EV charging for wildlife visitors: Rolling Hills Zoo installed new Level 2 EV chargers funded through a Kansas DOT community program, aiming to support visitors while backing wildlife stewardship. Local environment-adjacent community news: A Hays boutique, ThyWovenPeacock, opened with a nature-inspired focus on handwoven jewelry—small, but a reminder that Kansas communities keep building.

Water Safety Alert: KDHE issued a boil water advisory for the City of Goff (Nemaha County) after integrity issues with a storage tank raised the risk of bacterial contamination. Invasive Livestock Threat: The New World screwworm—an old-world “flesh-eating” parasite—was confirmed again in Texas, with officials warning it could spread quickly as animals move across states, including Kansas. Tick Season Reminder: Barton County health officials say warmer weather is driving more ticks and urge prevention: long sleeves, repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, and prompt tick checks/removal. Data Center Watch (Emporia): Questions continue around the Flint Hills Digital Campus, including timelines, power needs, and water/cooling impacts, after a new Q&A from the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas. Local Clean Energy: Rolling Hills Zoo installed four Level 2 EV chargers funded through KDOT’s Community Chargers Pilot Program. Community & Nature: The Kaw Valley Almanac highlights seasonal cycles and local nature observations, including elderberry uses.

Public Health: KDHE issued a boil water advisory for the City of Goff (Nemaha County) after integrity issues with a water storage tank raised the risk of bacterial contamination. Wildlife & Health: Barton County health officials warn Kansans to expect more tick activity after warmer weather, urging repellent, protective clothing, and quick tick checks to reduce Lyme risk. Invasive Species Watch: Kansas agriculture officials are stepping up outreach after New World screwworm was confirmed in a Texas calf, stressing it’s an animal health threat and urging ranchers and vets to watch for infestations. Local Water Planning: Derby city leaders discussed growth-driven staffing needs tied to a new water treatment facility planned to come online by 2027. Community & Nature: Friends of Konza Prairie are hosting a behind-the-scenes butterfly trail walk this weekend, with limited sign-ups. Entrepreneurship: Dickinson County earned E-Community status from Network Kansas, gaining tools and connections to support startups and small businesses.

Public Health: KDHE issued a boil water advisory for the City of Goff in Nemaha County after the integrity of a water storage tank was compromised, with residents told to boil water for one minute before drinking or cooking and to follow KDHE’s cleanup and disinfection steps until the risk is resolved. Invasive Species & Livestock Health: Kansas agriculture officials are stepping up outreach after New World screwworm was confirmed in Texas calves, warning ranchers and veterinarians that the parasite can destroy livestock herds and stressing it’s an animal health threat, not a food safety issue. Local Water & Growth Planning: Derby city leaders discussed staffing and infrastructure needs tied to growth, including a new water treatment facility expected to come online by 2027, with water demand and drought recovery driving the push. Data Centers & Water Use Concerns: Emporia residents and officials continue pressing questions about the Flint Hills Digital Campus, including power delivery, construction timing, and potential strain on local water capacity and the Neosho River. Wildlife in Kansas Backyards: A Wichita backyard caterpillar photo went viral after people mistook it for a snake; it was identified as an Eastern tiger swallowtail caterpillar, highlighting how native habitat supports wildlife even in suburban areas.

Invasive Species Watch: Kansas agriculture officials are educating ranchers after New World screwworm was confirmed in a Texas calf, with the Kansas Department of Agriculture warning the parasite can devastate livestock and can spread as animals move across the country. Severe Weather Safety: A new guide explains what to do if you’re stuck in a car during a tornado warning, urging drivers to prioritize finding shelter and avoid treating the vehicle as safe. Wildlife in Your Backyard: A Wichita resident’s “snake” photo turned out to be an Eastern tiger swallowtail caterpillar, a native butterfly species whose false-eye spots can startle people and signal nearby habitat. Climate & Sports Heat: Multiple reports highlight how extreme heat, humidity, and thunderstorms could disrupt the 2026 World Cup, with Kansas City and other host cities flagged for weather risk. Green Stadiums: Most World Cup venues have earned LEED certification, citing solar power, water savings, and reduced single-use plastics.

Invasive Species Alert: Kansas agriculture officials are stepping up outreach after scientists confirmed a New World screwworm case in a Texas calf, a parasite that can devastate livestock herds; Kansas says the threat isn’t about animal-to-animal spread, but about fly larvae burrowing into wounds, and it’s urging ranchers and veterinarians to watch for symptoms and report concerns. Wildlife & Habitat: Kansas State University extension shared practical tips for rabbit damage in gardens, recommending barriers like fine-mesh fencing and floating row covers, plus careful use of repellants and trapping. Outdoor Recreation: Kansas Free Fishing Days are set for June 6–7, letting anglers fish without a license while creel and length limits still apply. Climate Context: A new ranking of the hottest Junes in Kansas since 1895 highlights how recent heat trends are pushing averages upward. Local Growth & Industry: Wichita State broke ground on a new Hexcel Applications Center at NIAR, expanding Kansas’ aerospace research and composite manufacturing capacity.

Wildlife & Public Safety: Kansas officials are warning ranchers about a New World screwworm case found in a Texas calf, and the Kansas Department of Agriculture is rolling out guidance on how the fly larvae infest warm-blooded animals and what producers should watch for. Water Quality: KDHE rescinded a Do Not Drink order for part of Reno County’s RWD 101 after lab tests found no bacteriological contamination and pressure/chlorine risks were resolved, but infants under six months still must avoid tap water due to ongoing nitrate concerns. Outdoor Recreation: Kansas Free Fishing Days run June 6-7, letting anglers fish without a license by legal means while creel and length limits still apply. Heat & Climate: A new ranking of the hottest Junes in Kansas since 1895 highlights how recent months are running hotter than historical norms. Community Environment: Rosewood ECycle is expanding electronics recycling in central Kansas, aiming to keep hazardous e-waste out of landfills while processing about 3,000 pounds monthly.

Heat and drought in Kansas: A new Stacker look at the hottest Junes since 1895 shows Kansas is running hotter than historical norms, while a June 2 drought monitor update reports some improvement statewide (with extreme drought shrinking). Livestock protection: Kansas officials are warning ranchers about a newly detected New World screwworm case in Texas and rolling out a response plan so producers and vets can spot and stop infestations early. Soil and gardens: Kansas State University shared practical rabbit-control tips for home gardens, and another piece breaks down what soil can reveal about land health—useful for anyone planning summer planting. Local environmental services: Rosewood ECycle says it’s expanding e-waste recycling across central Kansas, taking everything from electronics to TVs and helping keep hazardous materials out of landfills. Water safety: Russell County Rural Water District #4 issued a boil water advisory after a pressure loss from a leak, urging residents to boil water and follow KDHE guidance.

Data Centers & Local Impacts: Residents packed De Soto’s city council meeting to oppose two proposed data center developments, citing pressure on water and energy and pollution concerns. Local Governance: Dickinson County officials heard Kansas is “late” to the data center boom, with state leaders saying they’re often among the last to learn about early plans. Public Health & Water Safety: Russell County Rural Water District #4 issued a boil water advisory after a loss of pressure from a leak, warning customers to boil water and follow sanitation steps until further notice. Invasive Species Threat: Kansas is continuing its response planning after New World screwworm was confirmed in a Texas calf; officials say there’s no confirmed case in Kansas yet but are updating veterinarians and livestock owners about possible movement restrictions. Air Quality & Waste Concerns: Galena residents are pushing back on a landfill they say is producing hydrogen sulfide and smoke from a smoldering area, raising health and property-value worries. Heat & Livestock: K-State shared practical guidance for managing cattle heat stress, emphasizing monitoring conditions and animal comfort during hot, humid stretches.

Climate & Health: A new report warns Americans face a more dangerous summer of climate disasters, with extreme heat getting worse and arriving earlier—part of a broader pattern tied to fossil-fuel pollution. Kansas Water & Drought: Kansas received its Republican River water allocation for 2026, while a wider drought outlook shows parts of the country staying abnormally dry. Local Governance & Water Use: Osawatomie’s mayor, Nick Hampson, finally addressed residents’ concerns about a major data center proposal, including potential impacts like water use, noise, and tax abatements. Kansas Environment & Infrastructure: Rolling Hills Zoo near Salina installed new EV charging stations using federal KDOT grant funding, adding cleaner travel options for visitors. Kansas Water Storage Threat: A look at Tuttle Creek Reservoir highlights sedimentation as a growing threat to maintaining water supply and habitat in Eastern Kansas. Defense & Drones: Kansas and North Dakota airmen ran VAPOR 26.1 to test passive defenses against sUAS threats using camouflage, concealment, deception, and hardening.

Kansas Water: Nebraska delivered water to the Kansas account in Harlan County Lake to meet Republican River Compact obligations, cutting administration days to 16 versus an estimated 81 under a traditional approach. Local Environment & Energy: Rolling Hills Zoo near Salina installed four Level 2 EV chargers with federal support via KDOT’s Community Chargers Pilot Program. Public Pressure on Data Centers: Emporia residents packed a City Commission meeting to oppose the proposed Flint Hills Digital Campus, raising alarms about water use, power demand, noise, environmental impacts, and who’s behind the project. Wildlife & Community Science: Kansas wildlife officials are seeking volunteers to survey bumble bees, part of broader efforts to track pollinator health. Health & Community Support: Douglas County behavioral health leaders are exploring a “clubhouse model” to support adults living with serious mental illness through non-clinical, work-ordered community programming. Infrastructure & Safety: A CPKC derailment west of Thunder Bay involved cars carrying propane, asphalt, crops, and lumber; cleanup teams were on scene and the line reopened after repairs.