Prairie Restoration

A prairie is a complex natural community primarily consisting of grasses and wildflowers.

Benefits of Prairies

Cost Savings:  Depending upon the level of landowner participation, the initial cost to restore a native prairie can be less than the annual cost to mow and maintain turf grass. Therefore, the project could potentially pay for itself in the first year. Because of the significant environmental benefits, State and local cost share funds may be available to help pay for the installation.

Non-native plants, including lawn grass, generally require a great deal of water, fertilizer and human labor to  maintain. The native plants used in native prairies have evolved in our area so they are better adapted to our soils, weather, and other biological and physical conditions. As a result, the deep root systems which provide tremendous environmental benefits also allow them to grow well on poor soils and do not require fertilizers or watering.  Furthermore, the native prairies would not need to be mowed once established. Therefore, native habitats can provide significant long-term cost and resource savings.

Attract Wildlife: Hamilton County has experienced rapid growth over the last several years.  This development has not only impacted the environment, but has also resulted in a tremendous amount of wildlife habitat loss.  Songbirds and butterflies find it increasingly difficult to find food, cover, and nesting sites in our area.  Native prairies are comprised of native grasses and wildflowers that provide food and shelter for many species of butterflies, songbirds, and other wildlife. Therefore, the addition of a native prairie could attract wildlife to the area.

Environmental Benefits:  Due to the deep root system of native plants, native prairies help improve water quality, soil quality, and air quality which ultimately improves the environment (see riparian buffer link for information on environmental benefits).

Improved Aesthetics:  Native prairies contain a variety of wildflowers that will provide a floral display throughout the year which could enhance the appearance of your Community.  We have developed seed mixes which are offered through Pheasants Forever.  Click to see info on our basic seed mix and our bird and butterfly mix

Outdoor Recreation and Education: Prairies provide an area where families and neighbors can gather for outdoor activities.  In addition, prairies provide areas where children can interact and discover nature.

Examples of Prairies in Hamilton County

Carmel
Cool Creek Park: Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000 East 151^st Street (East of Highway 31 and 151^st Street intersection)

River Road Park: 12575 River Road (River Road, South of 126^th Street)

West Park: Prairie Maze Garden, 2700 West 116^th Street (West of 116^th Street and Towne Road intersection)

Ridgefield Subdivision Nature Park: Promise Road (Southwest corner of 131^st Street and Promise Road)

Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve: 10410 Hague Road (Hague Road, South of 106^th Street)