The Kansas Environmental Leadership Program (KELP), in conjunction with the Kansas State Research and Extension Office, is designed to help participants enhance their knowledge of water resources and water quality concerns, regulations, and methods of treatment. This knowledge is then combined with skillwork that will help these individuals become more articulate and effective leaders. KELP training is patterned after other nationally-recognized leadership training programs, with an emphasis on Kansas water issues. Graduates of KELP training are able to establish networks, educate the public, develop plans, and begin improvements within their communities and watersheds across Kansas.

Structured in five sessions over 10 months (each in different locations throughout the State), KELP training highlights regional differences in water resources and problems, and is designed to prepare individuals to practice environmental leadership within the State. Leadership is predicated on the influential relationship between people; it is the sharing of a vision and collaborating with others to bring about change. In this time of increasing demand on water resources, leadership is needed to improve water resource management and protect water quality for the future. The environmental leadership gained through the KELP program will benefit every Kansan and the environment that we depend on.