Barton County Commissioners have approved a message of thanks to former Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Secretary Mike Hayden for his efforts that brought improvements to Cheyenne Bottoms, South Hoisington and other areas in the county.

County officials began discussion of changes that are being made in state government during last week’s Barton County Commission meeting.

Hayden was important in the development of the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and his support was important for work on townships roads "in and around Cheyenne Bottoms."

"During his tenure, Barton County benefited from grant funding that allowed for improvements to the Wetlands and Wildlife National Park and to township roads in and around Cheyenne Bottoms," the county agenda stated.

Hayden’s support for the county and the Bottoms was discussed by County Administrator Richard Boeckman at the commission meeting this week. He led work on the K-4 overlook and on bridge replacement near the Bottoms.

Commissioner Kenny Schremmer added that Hayden was instrumental in the South Hoisington clean up effort as well.

Gov. Sam Brownback had chosen Robin Jennison as his KDWP secretary.