Join us for Community Days at Marty Bender Nature Area in Salina, Kansas! The third event in our new series takes place on June 6, 2026, from 10 am – 2 pm at the Marty Bender Nature Area located at 3028 S Holmes Rd, Salina, KS 67401.

Dr. Benjamin Reed (Washburn University) and his Washburn University turtle research team are the special guests for this event. Dr. Reed will discuss Ornate Box Turtle conservation efforts in Kansas and the Great Plains Region. The team will also explore the connections between their research, native biodiversity conservation, and perennial and regenerative agriculture throughout the day.

The Community Days series focuses on experiential learning, community building, land stewardship, and creative placemaking. Community Days are designed for those interested in the intersections of agriculture, ecology, and art, offering ways to build a more sustainable future through hands-on engagement near our campus headquarters.

The schedule for this event includes:

• 10– 11 am: Dr. Benjamin Reed and the Washburn turtle research team will talk about Ornate Box Turtles and how Kansans can better share the land with them. Attendees will also receive training to identify ideal turtle habitat and evidence of Ornate Box Turtles.
• 11 am – 12 pm: Free lunch and time for socializing
• 12 – 2 pm: Attendees will split into teams for a civic science field survey activity, with the goal of using what they learned in the morning to collect data about the local Ornate Box Turtle population.

We welcome guests of all ages and abilities. All activities are free to attend and allow people to come and go as they please. Seating will be provided for the morning and lunchtime activities, and a restroom will be available throughout the day. You can also bring your own blanket and supplies (toys, cooler of food and drinks, etc) to fully enjoy the day with us!

Please RSVP using the form below so that we have a good estimate of total numbers. This will also allow us to communicate to you via email on the day before the event with instructions and final details. Note that this event is subject to the weather.