The state of Michigan has only a few small remnants of its original grasslands, and many associated wildlife species are in trouble as a result. Since purchasing our land in 1998, the Institute has converted over 70 acres (1.78kb PDF) of fallow farm field into native, tall and short grass prairie habitat. We have been committed to using Michigan genotype seed whenever feasible and only introduce species that were historically found in Barry County.

The process of converting a fallow farm field into a prairie ecosystem is a multi-year process. It begins with the removal of existing vegetation through the application of herbicide. The removal of existing non-native vegetation allows native grass and flower seeds to access the space, light, nutrients, and water that would otherwise be unavailable. Other methods can also effectively remove existing vegetation, but herbicides have the added benefit of minimizing soil disturbance and preventing erosion. After a few herbicide applications, the field is ready for planting. Unlike the flower bulbs buried in the ground at home, prairie seeds are often planted right at the ground surface. These plants invest their energy in developing an extensive root system before their leaves and stems develop, and are typically quite discreet for the first year or two following planting. Once their deep root systems are developed, the prairie grasses and flowers begin to visibly dominate the area. The planting will continue to mature over time as a result of natural disturbances and the recruiting of plants in their preferred microhabitats.

The Institute manages our prairie plantings with prescribed fires that are intentionally ignited under a strict set of weather and site conditions. These fires help reduce competition from non-native plants. Prior to widespread European settlement in Michigan, fires were commonly ignited either by Native Americans or by lightning strikes. Because fires have been suppressed in our landscape for nearly 200 years in order to protect our homes and crops, Michigan’s prairies, savannas, and other fire-dependent ecosystems are quickly disappearing. The controlled fires we ignite help set back encroaching shrubs and trees, stimulate native plants while reducing competition from invasive plants, and fertilize the soil with ash.