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1. Does Great Bend provide scheduled commercial air service?

There are currently no commercial flights in or out of Great Bend. The closest airports offering commercial flights are Hays,  Dodge City, Salina, and Wichita.

2. Does the airport have an industrial park with room for development?

The airport currently has approximately 500 acres of land available for industrial development and aviation-related business.

3. Are tours available at the airport?

The Great Bend Municipal Airport will host tours on a pre-arranged basis. Please contact the Airport Manager’s office for staff availability at (620) 793-4168.

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1. What are the hours at the Wetlands at Great Bend?

The Wetlands is open daily from 12:30 pm to 5:30 pm. The facility is also open on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm for family night.

Hours are subject to weather conditions.

For more information, please visit Wetlands Waterpark.

2. Can the Wetlands at Great Bend be reserved for private parties?

The Wetlands is available to groups wishing to hold private parties. Private parties will be available on most weekdays from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm and on weekends from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The fee for renting the facility is $150 per hour.

In addition, any group that has more than 100 people in attendance will be charged an extra $1 for every person in excess of 100. A deposit of $50 will be required when reserving the facility and will be applied to the total cost of renting the pool. Sales tax applies.

Please contact (620) 792-1516 to reserve the pool during the pool season. Outside the pool season, contact (620) 793-4160.

For more information, please visit the Wetlands

3. How can I find out if the pool will be open due to weather conditions?

Weather often interrupts the opening of the pool. To find out if the pool will be open when weather may be a concern, please call (620) 792-1516.

If the pool will be closed or if the opening will be delayed, we will provide a recorded message indicating the plans for the day.

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1. How do I get my gas turned on?

If your gas has been off for a while, Kansas Gas Service may require an inspection. Prior to an inspection being completed the gas lines must be pressured while gauge is attached to check for leaks and pressure consistency. Licensed plumbers can complete this work and must complete the work for rental and commercial properties. Homeowners who occupy the residence may take out the permit, perform the work and call for the inspection. Structures may not be built over gas lines.

2. Do I need a permit?

A permit is required for all work performed by contractors or homeowners if the cost of labor and materials equals $250.00 or more. Common work that requires permits include, but are not limited to: decks, fences, finishing basements, remodeling rooms, building garages and/or sheds, roof repairs, porches, heat and air units, plumbing and electrical.

3. Can I build in a utility easement?

No, structures cannot be built in easements. Plot plans submitted for approval with the permit application must show these easements and indicate where the structure will be located outside of the easement.

4. Do I have to be a certified tradesperson to work on my own home or a friend/relative’s home?

You may perform construction work without having a trade certificate provided you are both the owner and occupant of the home. However, you must still obtain a permit, if required, and have inspections completed during construction. If you are doing work on your secondary residence or a friend/relative’s property, you need to have a contractor or trades license as well as the proper permits and inspections.

5. Who issues permits for work done in the public right-of-way (i.e. curbs, sidewalks, etc.)

Permits for work done in the public right-of-way are issued and inspected by the City Engineer’s office. The City Engineer can be reached by calling (620) 793-4111.

6. What contractor’s licenses are issued by Building Inspections?

The following licenses are issued by Building Inspections: Class A General Contractor, Class B Building Contractor, Class C Residential Contractor, Class D Roofing Unlimited Contractor, Class E Roofing Limited Contractor, Class F Limited (Specialty) Contractor, Moving Contractor, Demolition Contractor, Sign Contractor, Mechanical Contractor, Plumbing Contractor and Electrical Contractor. Most licenses require successful completion of the Block and Associates exam.

7. What certificates does Building Inspections issue to tradespersons?

Building Inspections issues certificates for the following trades, upon successful completion of the Block and Associates exam: Journeyman Plumber w/ Gas, Master Plumber w/ Gas, Journeyman Electrician, Master Electrician, Journeyman Mechanical, and Master Mechanical. The following certificates are issued without successful completion of the Block and Associates exam: Employing Electrical, Apprentice Electrical, Helper Electrical, Employing Mechanical, Apprentice Mechanical, Helper Mechanical, Employing Plumber, Apprentice Plumber and Helper Plumber.

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1. How can I purchase a cemetery lot?

To purchase a cemetery lot, please contact the Cemetery Office at
(620) 793-4167. We will be happy to assist you with your questions.

2. When do we need to pick up Memorial Day flowers?

Memorial Day flowers need to be removed from graves by 8:00 am on the Monday following Memorial Day. This will allow the cemetery staff to continue mowing and perform the necessary maintenance at the cemeteries. We will not be responsible for any items left after this day.

3. What are your rates?

The rates vary depending on the day of the week for the burial.

For more information, please call (620) 793-4167 or view our Fee Schedule

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1. How do I request an item be placed on a City Council Agenda?

The Great Bend Mayor sets the City Council Agenda. Requests to place items on the agenda must be submitted to the Great Bend City Administrator or a Department Head. The requests can be made by mailing or delivering the request in writing to the Great Bend City Administrator, 1209 Williams, P.O. Box 1168, Great Bend, KS 67530. Please include your contact information and a detailed description of the requested item. This must be at City Hall by 10 am the Tuesday prior to the city council meeting. City staff will notify you when and if the item will be placed on the agenda.

2. How do I report a concern or complaint to the City of Great Bend?

There are two ways to report a complaint / concern to the City of Great Bend. The first way is visit the home page and click on the link that says “Report a Concern”. Here you will be given a list of more frequent concerns that are received. You will be required to give some basic information about yourself mainly so you can receive a follow up communication on your concern or complaint. If the concern is not listed or you feel more comfortable contacting staff directly then you can also call the Administrative Office at (620) 793-4111. Report A Concern

3. How do I sign up to receive council meeting agendas and/or minutes or other information from City?

By clicking on the link on the Home page that states “Notify Me Signup" you can sign-up to be notified digitally when council meeting agendas or minutes or other news items become available. Under the “Notify Me” module you can pick and choose what news and information you wish to be notified about. You have the option of unsubscribing at anytime when emails are received. Notify Me.

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1. Which classes are available?

Sys Admin, Fundamentals, Advanced

2. Has the Director position been filled?

We have hired Simon WIley as Asst. Director of Public Works.

3. What will I learn in Fundamentals 101?

Creating, editing and deleting pages

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1. Why do I have to pay for a public service like EMS? Don't I already pay taxes for that?

Very little of our EMS operational budget comes from tax-based funding so the majority of our EMS operational budget comes from billing for our services.

2. Why didn't Medicare cover my ambulance bill?

Unfortunately, Medicare does not always cover ambulance charges to the hospital. It is important to remember that Medicare is a benefit, not an insurance plan. Medicare determines whether an ambulance trip is medically necessary by an established set of guidelines. If it is deemed not medically necessary by these guidelines Medicare will not cover the ambulance trip. Many factors contribute to this decision by Medicare. Some of these factors include: 

•Did the patient’s condition at the time 911 was called warrant immediate medical attention? Remember, this decision is made by Medicare, not by the EMS staff attending to the patient. 

•Could the patient have been taken to the hospital by any other means of transportation other than an ambulance? 

•If the patient was being transferred from one hospital to another hospital by ambulance, could the patient receive the same level of care from the transferring hospital? Also, in many cases Medicare will not pay for transport from a greater facility to a lesser facility, which includes being transported from a hospital back to a residence.

3. What do I do if Medicare does not pay my ambulance bill?

If Medicare does not cover your ambulance bill, you have the right to file with Medicare for a Medical Review. This process is explained in the Medicare Remittance Notice that the patient receives from Medicare in the mail. 

When filing for a Medical Review, it is recommended that the patient provide the following documents to Medicare: 

•A letter from the patient’s family physician explaining why the ambulance transport was medically necessary. 

•Copies of the patient’s ambulance transport medical records. The patient may contact the Great Bend Fire/EMS Billing Office at 620-793-4140 to obtain a copy of his/her records. 

•Copies of the patient’s medical records from the hospital that the patient was transported to. 

•A letter from the patient explaining why 911 was called for medical assistance. Notice: Filing for Medical Review does not guarantee that Medicare will reverse their original decision, but it is an option available to all patients covered through Medicare.

4. Why wasn't a claim filed with my secondary insurance company after Medicare denied my claim?

Most patients have insurance coverage secondary to Medicare. However, most of these secondary insurance policies are Medicare Secondary Supplement Policies, such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plan 65. These secondary insurance coverage plans will only cover balances after Medicare pays their coverage rates. Therefore, if Medicare does not cover the charges, then neither will most of the secondary insurance plans.

5. The hospital filed with my insurance company, so why didn't Great Bend EMS?

If a patient receives a bill for their ambulance transport without insurance being filed, it is most likely because the EMS Billing Office does not have complete insurance information on file for the patient. Please contact the Billing Office at 620-793-4141. This information can also be dropped off at or mailed to: 

Great Bend Fire/EMS 1205 Williams Great Bend, KS 67530 

Once all insurance information is on file with our billing office, we will gladly file a claim with your insurance provider.

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1. Where does my sewer line connect to the City sewer main line?

The City Engineering Department can provide the location of sewer wyes. Call (620) 793-4111 or see us at 1209 Williams St.

2. Does the City have copies of maps available?

The City Engineering Department does have maps available for a fee. Call (620) 793-4111 or see us at 1209 Williams St.

3. Does the City have Plat information?

The City Engineering Department can provide Plat information such as lot dimensions, easements, addition lot and block numbers. Contact us at (620) 793-4111 or see us at 1209 Williams St.

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1. Where can I register to vote?

City residents can register to vote at the Barton County Clerk's Office.

2. What is the population of Great Bend and other cities and townships in Kansas?

This information can be located by selecting economic and demographics from the Kansas Department of Budgets website.

3. Can I pay my water / sewer bill at City Hall?

You may drop a payment in the drop box at the City Hall which is picked up the following morning. All cash payments and customer service needs to be done at the Front Door Building at 1615 10th Street.

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1. Why may a fire truck and police officer come when I call for an ambulance?

All fire apparatus are Advanced Life Support (ALS) equipped and staffed at a minimum level of an EMT. In the instance that all four ambulances are busy with other medical calls or may be too far away to respond within the average 3 ½ minute response time an engine or fire truck is dispatched to respond. 

Police officers may respond to ambulance calls depending on the nature of the call. Police officers often respond to assist with scene safety or to assist if additional manpower is needed.

2. Why are fire trucks used to block lanes on the highway when there is an emergency?

This is done for everyone’s safety. By blocking the lanes, all individuals involved are able to work more diligently to clear the incident and provide assistance quicker.

3. How do I report a leaking or broken fire hydrant?

If it is a public fire hydrant, please call City of Great Bend Water Department at 620-793-4150. If it is a private fire hydrant, the property owner is responsible for all repairs. It is advised that they contact a licensed plumber.

4. Can I schedule a visit to the fire station?

Yes, station tours can be scheduled by contacting us at 620-793-4140. See our Community page for more information on station tours and other community involvement activities.

5. Does the Fire Department inspect child car seats?

No, special training is required in order to install child car seats and none of our firefighters are certified. 

The Great Bend Police Department does have individuals trained to install car seats. The Police Department can be contacted at 620-793-4120.

6. What are the requirements to become a firefighter/EMT with the Great Bend Fire Department?

A full list of requirements can be found under our Employment page.

7. Can the Great Bend Fire Department unlock my car if I leave the keys inside?

The Great Bend Fire Department will only gain entry to your vehicle if there is a child or pet inside the vehicle.

8. Does the Fire Department fill private pools with water?

No we do not.

9. Can the Fire Department come out and change the batteries in my smoke detector?

Yes, if the smoke alarm is too high for the resident to reach, if the resident is disabled or elderly or if they are unable to climb on a ladder to replace the batteries contact Station #1 at 620-793-4140 to schedule a time.

10. Does the Fire Department provide both fire and ambulance service?

Yes, all fire personnel are also trained to a minimum level of an EMT. This allows all firefighter/EMS staff to provide both fire and EMS care as situations may require.

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1. How big of a LP tank can I install?

LP tanks may not be used in the City of Great Bend except for barbeque grills and for roofing (by permit only). Food wagons are allowed to have LP tanks but they are limited to 200 pounds. These will be looked at upon inspection by the Fire Inspector.

2. Is training available?

The Fire Department provides hands-on live fire extinguisher training. The Fire Inspector can come to your workplace and train your personnel. Our department recently obtained a Bull-Ex Lazer Digital system that allows us to provide realistic scenarios and training indoors.

3. Who inspects my proposed day care?

The Great Bend Fire Department Fire Inspections division works closely with State of Kansas agencies and the Barton County Health Department in regards to daycares. Home operated daycares and daycare centers are required to be licensed by the State of Kansas. Part of this licensing process involves the Fire Inspector completing initial and annual fire inspections of the residence or facility to ensure that minimum State standards are upheld to provide further protection of our younger citizens. The Fire Inspector will complete the inspection by following the Fire and Life Safety Agreement inspection checklist. Some of the more common items checked are exits, smoke detectors, documentation, fire escape plans, lithium batteries and protective covers. The full Fire and Life Safety Agreement inspection checklist can be obtained from Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) as part of the licensing process.

4. What regulations govern fire codes?

The Great Bend Fire Department has adopted the 2006 International Fire Codes. City Ordinances also govern the Great Bend Fire Department.

5. Is a permit required for fireworks? When may fireworks be discharged?

Yes, the Great Bend Fire Department has a list of fire safety guidelines and regulations for fireworks stands. Fireworks stands must be inspected and permitted prior to opening and selling fireworks in the City of Great Bend. 

Fireworks may be discharged in the City of Great Bend on July 4th of each year from the hours of 10:00 am to 12:00 am (midnight). If July 4th falls on Sunday fireworks may be discharged from 12:00 pm (noon) to 12:00 am (midnight).

6. Are tent permits required?

Yes, tents, both temporary and permanent, that are open to the public require a permit and an inspection by the Fire Inspector to ensure that regulations and fire safety codes are met. A site plan will be required for issuance of the permit.

7. When is my business inspected for fire safety?

The Fire Inspection division is responsible for conducting fire inspections of commercial buildings, industrial buildings, businesses, restaurants, schools, churches and multi-family housing that are open to the public. The majority of these inspections are completed on an annual basis. These inspections are completed to ensure and encourage fire safety, access and proper storage and containment of hazardous materials to protect the building occupants, firefighters and the community. 

The Fire Inspector inspects both existing and new businesses under all occupancy types. These inspections cover a variety of items throughout the establishment but some of the more common items checked are exits and locks, clear corridors, fire extinguishers, maximum allowable occupancy and exit lighting. Two of the most common violations found are expired fire extinguishers and inoperative exit signs.

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1. Is internet access available in the meeting rooms at the Front Door?

Wireless internet service is available in both meeting rooms at the Front Door.

2. How do we make arrangements to schedule the meeting rooms at the Front Door?

To schedule the meeting rooms at the Front Door, please contact Laryssa Howard at (620) 793-4111. For more information on the fees and procedures to use of the building, please refer to the additional information provided.

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1. Can we fill out an application or send a resume for City of Great Bend job openings at any time?

Thank you for your interest in employment with the City of Great Bend. An application is required for each position. Unsolicited or partially completed applications or resumes for positions not currently open will not be considered. Department heads will review applications and interview those applicants he/she determines will best meet the needs of the City, their department and the essential job functions of the position. Should your application be selected you will be contacted by Human Resources to arrange an interview.

2. What benefits are offered to City employees?

The City provides competitive benefit packages for the employee and family. For more information, please see Employee Benefits.

3. Is the Great Bend Police Department hiring?

The City of Great Bend accepts applications throughout the year for the Police Department. Applications are kept on file to develop a test group. When an opening occurs and the department is prepared to test, those who have applications on file may receive an invitation to test. Applications are unique to the test group and another application must be submitted for future test groups.

4. What does it mean when a job application deadline is “open until filled”?

Open until filled means that there is no application deadline. We will continue to accept applications until a candidate is selected, at which time the job posting will be removed.

5. How will I know whether I am being considered for the job?

Applications are screened at different times depending on the job title and application deadlines. Please do not call to check on the status of your application. You will be notified as soon as we determine whether or not you are being considered for a position.

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1. What is the function of the Municipal Court?

The Municipal Court has jurisdiction of violation of City ordinances for traffic cases, certain criminal misdemeanors, and other types of cases such as violation of fire codes, nuisance codes, building codes, and parking violations.

2. Where is the Municipal Court located?

The Great Bend Municipal Court is located at 1217 Williams and can be reached by calling (620) 793-4124.

3. What are the hours of the Municipal Court?

Municipal Court is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Municipal Court offices are closed on holidays.

4. Who is the Municipal Judge?

The Municipal Judge is Charles Pike.

5. When is court in session?

The Municipal Court is in session at 8:30 am on Mondays for arraignments. The trial session of the Municipal Court is at 8:30 am on Thursdays.

6. What is a no contest (nolo contendere) plea in the Municipal Court?

Although a no contest plea entered is not an admission of guilt, the defendant does not contest the facts and will be found guilty without a trial and a sentence will be imposed. As with a plea of guilty, one may present mitigating matters to the court after being found guilty.

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1. How do I reserve Jack Kilby Square?

Jack Kilby Square and the band shell can be reserved for special events on a first-come, first-served basis.

The special events form can be found under Departments-Public Lands- Park Department: Events AT LEAST 14 business days in advance, be detailed and specific on location and needs, turn it into City Hall and approval will be made by the Public Lands Director and/or city council if necessary. 

Or to have a form sent,  you can call (620) 793-4160 or visiting:

1209 Williams

Great Bend, KS

2. Can we reserve the shelter house at Vet’s Park?

At the present time, the large shelter at Vet’s Park may be reserved by calling (620) 793-4160. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis.

3. What time does the Park Close?

Midnight

4. Are alcoholic beverages allowed in the parks?

City ordinance allows 3.2 alcohol content beer in the shelter houses and picnic areas of the parks. Glass containers are not allowed.

The Great Bend Recreation Commission prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages in any area where their activities are being held, such as ball fields, soccer fields, and other sports fields.

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1. What steps do I have to follow to get a property rezoned?

To rezone a property an individual must start by completing an application for rezoning. There are two separate applications depending on whether the property is located in the Great Bend city limits or in the three-mile extra-territorial zoning authority around Great Bend. There is a fee associated with these applications.

The applicant must also submit a Certificate of Ownership provided by a qualified title company that lists the owners of record within 200 foot radius (for properties in Great Bend) and 1,000 foot radius (for properties in the three-mile radius) around the subject property. This certificate of ownership is used to notify nearby property owners of the proposed change in zoning. The City of Great Bend must abide by state statutes that requires certain public and private notifications which in turn makes it essential for us to have a completed application and certificate of ownership data no less than 22 days in advance of a public hearing which is held during the Planning Commission meeting which regularly falls on the last Tuesday of each month.

The process for a conditional use permit is the same as it is for a zoning request.

2. How long does it take to get a property rezoned or receive a conditional use permit?

Overall the process of rezoning or getting a conditional use permit generally will take approximately two months. This of course depends on a number of factors including but not limited to:

• Timing of submittal of applications and certificates of ownership (both must be in our possession 22 day in advance of the Planning Commission meeting
• Action taken by either the Planning Commission or the City Council; and
• Any protest petitions filed or legal action taken by adjacent land owners to block the change

20 days prior to the required public hearing a notice must be placed in the official city newspaper and a notification letter must be sent to adjacent property owners (those within 200 feet in the City and those within 1,000 feet in the three-mile radius).

The public hearing is held at the Great Bend Planning Commission Meeting which regularly meets the last Tuesday of each month. The Planning Commission will make their recommendation at the meeting. Following the planning commission recommendation there is a required 14 day period in which individuals can file a protest petition against the request.

After the Planning Commission makes their recommendation and the 14 day waiting period expires the item goes to the Great Bend City Council for their decision. Generally the item will be placed on the council agenda for the third Monday of the month following the public hearing. When the Great Bend City Council hears the request they have three choices: approve the recommendation of the Planning Commission, deny the recommendation of the Planning commission, or send the item back to Planning Commission for further discussion or review.

If they send it back for further discussion to the Planning Commission it will be placed on the next Planning Commission agenda and then returned to City Council on the next regular meeting following the return to the Planning Commission. If the City Council approves the item, it becomes official upon both signature and publication of the ordinance or resolution in the official city newspaper.

3. How do I find out whether a use complies with planning and zoning regulations?

If you know the zoning district designation for a property, you can generally find out what is allowed by looking in the Great Bend Zoning Regulations. Part 3 through Part 6 of these regulations discuss what is allowed in the specific zoning districts.

When looking at these regulations, you will find that most uses can be clearly defined. However, there are sometimes uses that do not fit perfectly into any description. If there is any question as to what category a use fits into contact Building Inspections at (620) 793-4106.

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1. Where does the water go after it is flushed or dumped down the drains from my home?

It goes into the sanitary sewer system to the Wastewater Treatment Facility.

2. What happens to the treated water when it leaves the wastewater treatment plant?

The water is released into the Arkansas River for irrigation and aquatic life.

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1. Is an ordinance in effect for keeping motorized vehicles off the hike and bike trail?

Yes. The flood control dike north and south of the Arkansas River is in the city limits.
City Ordinance 10.32.010 states:


A.It is unlawful for any person to drive or operate a motor vehicle, as defined by the standard traffic ordinances of the city, upon any dike or upon any levee system located within the city limits of the city. This section shall not apply to the operation of authorized maintenance or emergency vehicles upon said dikes or levee system.


B.Violation of this section shall be considered a Class A misdemeanor as defined by the Uniform Public Offense Code and it shall be punishable by a fine of up to $2500, a jail sentence of one year, or both said fine and prison.

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1. Who do I call if I need my water turned off for repairs?

During business hours, you should call (620) 793-4100.

If it is an emergency, after-hours, or on a weekend or holiday, you should call (620) 793-4100 and follow the instructions for a water emergency.

2. Who do I call if I have a sewer line problem?

For all sewer emergencies, regardless of the day or time, you should call (620) 793-4170.

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1. Who is responsible for the water line from the meter to the house?

The property owner is responsible.

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1. What should I do if I find an injured bird?

The Great Bend Raptor Center is one of the premier rehabilitation centers in the U.S. The first step is call for assistance. However, your help is needed. Please stay with or get a good location on the bird. Call Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks at 1-800-344-9453, if you need the bird to be picked up and brought to our facility.

2. Should I give the bird water or food?

Please do not attempt to feed or water the bird, it could result in choking.

3. Can I keep a baby or injured bird?

All raptors are protected by federal law. In order to raise a bird it is necessary to have all of the federal permits and follow the rehabilitation procedures.

Young birds need special attention very quickly. Please never attempt to do it on your own for a couple of days. By then, it is too late.

4. What do I do if I have seen the bird down on the ground for a while?

Time is critical in rehabilitation work. Call as soon as possible. Old injuries heal poorly.

General Ph: (620) 793-4226

5. Can I pick up a baby great horned owl?

If you see a young great horned owl on the ground, be aware that mom probably is near by and more than willing to defend her young. This will result in an attack. Owls are very aggressive.

6. What is The Raptor Center going to do with the bird?

The goal of The Raptor Center is to rehabilitate and return to the wild all bids brought to the Center.

7. What do raptors eat?

Raptors are predators. It is very important to feed a species appropriate diet of whole body prey in order to maintain proper nutrition.

8. How do you become a falconer?

For information regarding falconry, please consult Kansas State Wildlife and Parks.