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The Need for Additional Land...

Development pressures threaten KSR:

The impact of increasing urbanization north of Lawrence is a genuine threat to KSR. Encroaching development compromises the delicate natural and research areas that KSR seeks to protect now, and curtails any expectation of their expansion in the future.

If development of the landscape immediately surrounding it continues at the present rate, KSR's value and future potential to function as an important resource for both KU and the Lawrence community will be greatly and forever diminished.

KU has been offered a rare opportunity to purchase 160 acres of highly desirable land immediately adjacent to KSR (yellow outlined area above) and bordering the important Rockefeller Prairie. Successful acquisition of this strategic property will afford multi-purpose benefits:

Protecting a priceless remnant of original prairie near Lawrence and its rich diversity of more than 200 native plants.
Protecting two threatened plant species, the Western Prairie Fringed Orchid and Mead's Milkweed. KSR is one of only four sites worldwide where both occur.
Preserving and buffering many of KSR's sensitive natural and research areas by expanding the field station's permanent acreage.
Establishing propagation sites for rare and medicinal plants to support habitat restoration and pharmacological research.
Creating public walking trails and enhancing opportunities for nature and science education.
Providing new space for emerging research and education initiatives at KSR.
Preserving the aesthetics of open space and local natural heritage for the long-term benefit of the entire community.

New 160-acre parcel as it appears now...

...and after new features are implemented