WIHA get hunted really hard in those areas last I heard. Also, a lot of the habitat has been mowed from what I've seen in other areas of KS.. I'm guessing it's no different there.
CRP is mostly gone and spots are limited but we have had some decent luck on the few spots that don't have cattle and/or haven't been baled.
Having a great time hunting with the in laws.
We were remodeling the kitchen when I picked up my dog and he would sleep through the loud tools and noises as a pup. Never had any issues with him and gunfire that's for sure.
I've had a very similar experience although not hunting. A group of us were at some railroad tracks in the middle of nowhere one night and saw what I thought was a satellite but it started moving at tremendous speeds. It kept going up and down and left and right making a cross type pattern...
I saw a military helicopter today fly right directly over me while hunting. It was flying very low due to the high winds I'm guessing which made for a unique experience.
I'm not completely sure how to convert steps to miles to be honest. I'm a short guy so I take more steps than someone who is over 6' traveling the same distance.
I switched from Ruff Tough to the Gunner and there is a huge difference in quality (and price to be fair). For the peace of mind it was worth it to me... Spend a lot of money/time on a dog so it only seems right to protect it as best you can.
I was just around there and wasn't really impressed with most of the public land I saw. I think you would want to stay to the northern part of the county if you're set on that area.