International Forest of Friendship

04/05/2026

Wishing you a bright and joyful Easter from the International Forest of Friendship. Come visit and explore our newly opened trails—spring is the perfect time to enjoy them.

04/04/2026

Did you receive a Half Moon Tree at last September’s annual celebration? We’d love to see how it’s doing—share a photo of your tree and help us celebrate its growth. Shared by Cindy Apple

04/04/2026

Forest trails may experience temporary closures from May 6 through mid-May due to road and parking lot repairs.

03/26/2026

We are saddened to hear of Larry's passing. He was such a valuable resource and supporter of the International Forest of Friendship. His knowledge, dedication and passion made a lasting impact, and he will be deeply missed

We are deeply saddened to share that former State Forester Larry Biles passed away on Saturday.

Larry served as State Forester from 2008 to 2019, when he retired. Larry had previously worked for the Kansas Forest Service as a regional forester in Hiawatha beginning in 1970. He also served in the United States Army and worked for the USDA Forest Service and the USDA Extension Service. Through his many roles, Larry served for more than 50 years in forestry, conservation, and natural resources.

Larry was vital to shaping our agency in its modern form, including growing federal funding by 44%, and, through his leadership, we were allotted the first line item in the state budget since 1909 to address wildfire concerns in Kansas.

Larry served on committees and in leadership roles with the Society of American Foresters, the International Society of Arboriculture, the Urban Forestry Working Group for the Society of American Foresters, the National Capitol Section of the Society of American Foresters, and various other boards and organizations.

Those who worked with Larry describe him as a mentor, a dedicated leader, and a servant to the people of Kansas. On behalf of all former and current Kansas Forest Service staff, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Larry Biles.

https://buff.ly/skABjq2

03/20/2026

03/20/2026

Stop by and see all of the changes to the International Forest of Friendship on this beautiful day!

03/17/2026

The International Forest of Friendship will reopen to visitors on March 20, the first day of spring, following temporary closure for sidewalk replacement along the walking trail. Funded by a Kansas Department of Parks and Trails grant, the project also included resetting 1,600 honoree stones. Visitors will see a limestone table with childfriendly seating in the Forest and a revived Memory Lane with a large round bench at the lane’s end.
Visitors are asked to remain on sidewalks while new grass is established. A new welcome sign, landscaping, and a renovated entrance kiosk will be completed in the coming weeks. Additional summer projects include planting new trees, repairing damaged stones, installing new honoree stones, and repairing the road and parking areas.
Honoring aviation and space past and present, the Forest symbolizes world friendship through flight. The community is invited to celebrate the Forest’s 50th anniversary with a full day of festivities on Saturday, September 12. For more information, visit ifof.org.

03/04/2026

02/13/2026

✈️ Save the Date! ✈️

Join us as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the International Forest of Friendship!

We’re planning a fun-filled weekend packed with events honoring aviation and friendship. Come help us commemorate this incredible milestone and celebrate those who have helped our shared love of flight take root and soar!