The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks invites the public to attend the opening of Kansas' newest state park, the Kaw River State Park, on Saturday, Sept. 4. The celebration will begin at 8 a.m. with the "Race for the Kaw," a 4-mile walk/run sponsored by the Topeka Sunflower Striders. All proceeds will benefit Let’s Help, an organization that helps families struggling with poverty.

At 10:30 a.m., Gov. Mark Parkinson and his wife Stacy will address visitors and then dedicate the Kaw River Access Road at 11:30 a.m. This will be followed by dedication of the Kaw River boat ramp and a canoe flotilla on the Kansas River.

Visitors may participate by renting canoes for $25. To reserve a canoe, phone Friends of the Kaw at 913-963-3460.

For more information about the dedication, phone KDWP at 785-273-6740.