Governor Sam Brownback outlined ongoing activities in the Flint Hills, including efforts to enhance the Flint Hills Nature Trail so it will connect with the Katy Trail in Missouri and allow people to hike and bike from St. Louis to Herington, the success of the First Governor’s Flint Hills Freedom Ride for motorcyclists and his discussions with the Kaw Nation Indian Tribe to plan a visitor experience outside of Council Grove.  

 

“We've come a long way in the last couple of years,” Brownback said. “The energy shared by the participants was truly infectious. To get enduring results, we have to continue our collaboration to move our efforts forward. Only then will we be able to revitalize the thriving communities that grace the Flint Hills. In the end, that means positive things for our state.”

 

Raymond Lasley, Executive Advisor of Programs for the Osage Nation, traveled from Oklahoma for the Summit and later said, “I came away from the conference with so much information and as I drove home through the Flint Hills, my mind was abuzz with possibilities.”   

 

At the moment, the Flint Hills Nature Trail holds the No. 7 spot for longest trail in the United States.