Dave Mahlke’s restored prairie in Cedar Rapids will be the subject of a free prairie walk on Tuesday, July 23, 2013. (photo/Dave Mahlke)
More than 30 million acres of prairie enhanced Iowa’s terrain before development drastically reduced that amount. According to the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, 150 years ago, nearly 85 percent of the state was tall-grass prairie. Today, less than .1 percent of that prairie remains.
Some Iowans have turned to prairie restoration to literally return the land to its native roots, not only for beautification, but to prevent erosion, rebuild soil nutrients, reduce maintenance costs and provide wildlife habitat.
One of those, Linn County Master Gardener Dave Mahlke, will explain the process during a free prairie walk on Tuesday, July 23, 2013, at 6:30 p.m.
Dave will discuss what types of flowers can be seen on his 1/3-acre of restored prairie. Like most vegetation this year, Dave said some prairie flowers could blooming later than normal.
The event is at 5791 Michael Drive in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. To register: call (319) 377-9839 or email Michelle Kenyon Brown at: mkenyonb@iastate.edu
Read more about the history of Iowa’s prairies and tips for prairie restoration from the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.
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