Native Prairie Project

Native Prairie Project – Recognition and Restoration

 
This is an ongoing project to promote the restoration of native species of grasses in pastureland in our area. The purpose is to increase the diversity of plant species and improve habitat for wildlife. We will identify and encourage preservation of prairie remnants in our area and work towards developing restoration techniques for land that has already been “disturbed,” or cultivated. Contact Charlotte vonRosenberg for more information.

Prairie Evaluation Process

Once a landowner expresses interest in evaluating his or her property as a potential native prairie remnant, the chapter team starts a process that involves multiple steps. One of the tools that we have developed is a checklist of various plant species and conditions of the land that are good indicators. This list was developed in cooperation with Dr. Fred Smeins of TAMU and representatives of Texas AgriLife and USDA NRCS staff. The landowner must also provide some historical information about the land that supports the likelihood that the land has not been cultivated or grazed beyond reasonable limits for a native prairie plant community to survive. A copy of the form can be downloaded below.
Download Prairie Remnant Process PDF file

The committee has also prepared a really informative brochure that describes the value of native prairie remnants, how to maintain them, and how to restore abused land to more natural conditions. There is also an invitation to property owners to have their native prairie remnants recognized under our program.
Download Native Prairie Brochure PDF file