Prairie: More than a bunch of weeds...

June Morning Photo by Ellen Macdonald

Prairie originally covered almost one fifth of North America and 85% of the state of Iowa. The prairie ecosystem is home to an exceptional variety of native plants and animals. Within an original prairie one can find over 500 species of plants. The plants included both grasses and wildflowers known as "forbs." There were also countless species of insects, 34 species of amphibians, and 90 species of reptiles.

Compass Plant Photo by Ellen Macdonald

Some prairie plants, such as big bluestem and compass plant, may have roots extending up to 25 feet deep. In comparison, non-native grasses and crops, such as corn, struggle to grow even one foot into the soil. These deep roots are able to hold soil from erosion, and reach nutrients and water that are not accessible to other plants, allowing them to thrive under extremely hot or dry conditions. This explains why prairie plants remain green, even through hot, dry summers.

Bee with Pollen on Wild White Indigo. Photo by Ellen Macdonald

Prairie also provides habitat for wildlife, builds new topsoil and adds organic matter to the soil. It provides this natural area for our recreation, contemplation, and enjoyment. One primary reason the Decorah Community Prairie was established was to slow runoff and stop soil erosion during flooding of the Upper Iowa River. This improves ground and surface water quality.

Photo by Nancy Sojka