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Prairie Creation

Controlled burns are a useful tool in prairie establishment and management. Many prairie species have deep roots which are adapted to survive the fire, providing an advantage over woody species. The burn promotes seed germination by removing the top layer of thatch, releasing essential nutrients and exposing the soil surface to the sun.

Prairie grassland habitat is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the US.

Although prairies were not a large part of the post-glacial landscape in Southeastern Ohio, the disturbance from agriculture and coal mining has resulted in the formation of large-scale non-forested landscapes. The grasslands that were introduced as part of the reclamation process mostly consist of cool-season non-native grasses and few flowering plants.

The introduction of warm-season prairie grasses and forbs at the Wilds are creating a more diverse landscape. Prairies have been established in many of the open areas with the hopes of accelerating the regeneration of healthy soil and nutrient cycling as well as providing increased aesthetic and educational value.

Planting is done on a large scale, but requires attention to detail to ensure the area will thrive.

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