January 16, 2026
Keep ’Em in the Wild
As Extension agents, you play an important role in helping communities align fair traditions with research-based best practices. One timely opportunity is protecting Kansas’ native ornate box turtles as summer fair planning gets underway.
Concerns have been shared about turtle races, an activity still sponsored by some community events. While many Kansas fairs and 4-H clubs do not host turtle races, research shows that removing turtles from the wild—even temporarily—can contribute to population declines due to their strong homing instincts.
To address this awareness gap, the Kansas Chapter of the Sierra Club is launching its “Leave ’Em in the Wild” Campaign, focused on education and voluntary change. Extension agents can help by sharing this information with fairboards, 4-H clubs, and community organizers early in the planning process and encouraging wildlife-friendly alternatives.
This effort aligns well with Kansas 4-H’s Environmental Science and Natural Resources programming and reinforces 4-H’s leadership in conservation, youth education, and community stewardship.
Sidebar: Fair‑Friendly Alternatives to Turtle Races
- Mascot, toy, or wind-up turtle races
- Turtle or wildlife education booths
- Nature-themed scavenger hunts
- Conservation pledge or “Adopt‑a‑Turtle” programs
- Youth art, poster, or coloring activities
- Environmental trivia or quiz challenges
These options preserve fair fun while keeping wildlife in the wild.
For more information, contact Felix Revello, Conservation Chair, Kansas Chapter of the Sierra Club, at plains.talker@gbta.net or 620-804-9077.