LARGER ISSUES

The recent discussions about the proposed Kansas Nebraska Heritage Area Partnership (KNHAP) sparked input from individuals, organizations, and politicians who weigh in showing support or opposition to the proposal. Supporters of the KNHAP note the potential for increased tourism and revenue to rural areas, while opposition see a lack of transparency and threats to property, with some even proposing the KNHAP is linked to the Biden Administration’s 30x30 plan to address climate change. With all of these stories circulating, I could not help but weigh in by talking to two prominent leaders on this topic: Kim Wilson, Executive Director of the KNHAP, and Norman Kincaide, organizer for the Western Regional Property Rights Coalition. Here, I provide a brief synopsis of those interviews and provide further questions to think beyond the narrative at hand and examine underlying issues.