What The Prairie Enthusiasts DoInventory and Protection Our inventories have cataloged hundreds of prairie and oak savanna sites and rare species locations. As of January 2010, we have protected, or are managing, almost 4,000 acres. We own 24 sites totaling 1149 acres, hold easements on 9 sites totaling 834 acres, have acquired and transferred to conservation partners title or easement on another 290 acres, and we carry out management agreements that benefit another 70 sites that total nearly 2,000 acres. We hope to be able to accomplish much, much more. Management and Restoration We love watching prairies and oak savannas grow and flourish year after year as they respond to proper management and species enrichment. Surviving remnants of prairie and savanna are often small isolated patches which require active management to remain healthy. By sponsoring work parties, The Prairie Enthusiasts assist both public agencies and private groups in managing remnant lands through our stewardship program of prescribed burns, brush removal and exotic plant control. Some chapters are also active in planting new areas as buffer zones or replacements for lost ecosystems. To date, over 500 acres have been planted with seeds collected from local sources by Prairie Enthusiasts volunteers. Education We offer educational opportunities through presentations, publications and field trips. Our members enjoy learning about identification, conservation and management through the many field trips we conduct from April through October. We host an annual TPE Prairie Conference in late winter (check the TPE Events page) to provide attendees with information related to prairies and prairie management. We share information relevant to management of prairies and savannas by producing tools, tips, and educational materials. management. Members Opportunities
|