This site is designed to be a hub of information about prairies, especially Nebraska prairies, for landowners, biologists, and communtiy members. It addresses all aspects of the prairie, including resources, events, management , guides, restoration techniques, research, outreach, contacts, and much more. Just click on one of the categories at the top of this page or on one of the links to the right to get started.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Saturday, February 11 10:00 a.m.-12:00 noon Using magnifiers, microscopes, and mindful techniques, adult/child teams will probe through leaf litter and logs to discover a variety of spineless wonders wiling away the winter. Activities include a short hike, weather permitting, and an indoor investigation session.
Friday, February 17 9:30-11:30 a.m. The Great Backyard Bird Count is a nationwide four-day-long bird survey that takes place each February. Take part this year as an experienced guide will lead a tour along the prairie trails to count every bird seen.
Saturday, March 24 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon (Starting times every 20 minutes) Teams of two to ten participants outfitted with a treasure map and clues will search for hidden treasure chests along the trail. At each chest they will use observation skills, deductive reasoning, special equipment, and common sense to investigate the sights and sounds of the prairie and discover the subtle and sometimes elusive treasures of spring.
Sunday, April 15 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. A fun kite-flying event for the whole family. $2/person. No reservations are needed.
Cottonwood Comeback The Nebraska Chapter of The Nature Conservancy is looking for volunteers to help collect 30,000 cottonwood stem cuttings for riparian forest restoration projects along the Missouri River in 2012.
Cottonwood forests serve as critically important habitat for many types of wildlife, including Bald Eagles, migratory songbirds, and woodland mammals. Riparian forests can improve water quality, control flooding, and provide valuable recreational opportunities. Unfortunately, 40-80% of Missouri River cottonwood forests have been lost due to land conversion and bank stabilization, and cottonwood forests are dying faster than they are being regenerated… But you can make a difference!
Workdays for 2012 are:
Saturday, February 11th, 2012 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 18th, 2012 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
We will meet at the USDA Service Center parking lot, 988 11th Street, in Syracuse, Nebraska and go by van to the volunteer site. Please RSVP so that we may plan accordingly and alert you to weather cancellations. Interested? Contact Jill Wells for more information and to RSVP at (402) 342-0282 x 1002.
