Tall Grass Prairie Tour

Did you know that the Tall Grass Prairie is among the most threatened of North American Ecosystems?   Less than 1% of the Tall Grass Prairie remains.  Sadly, with it has gone many plant and animal species which are extinct, threatened, or endangered.  But, in our times, we are finding that many people are seeking to protect it and bring it back.

Most Folks don't even know what Prairie is or they label it as "weeds".  Fortunately, we have pockets and pieces of Prairie in Northeast Missouri.  And fortunately for us on this little Farm, we have many species returning.  That had begun to happen before we moved here and it is continuing to happen as a part of our long term intentions and designs.

On Saturday, July 30, 10am-noon, Richard and Melanie will be hosting a Tall Grass Prairie Tour here at the Farm.  (I will be out of town and am sorry that I will miss being a part of it.)  The Tour will feature an overview of prairie ecosystems and plant identification.  We will do a walk about on the Farm to see what is blooming and to see what animals and insects will be putting in special appearances during our walk.  Richard will also discuss the use of Prairie Plants in small scale gardening.

Should you come, be sure to dress in consideration of the weather.  Looking at the long term forecast, it is predicted to be cooler and there is a chance of thunderstorms.  It still will be warm.  Wear lightweight, light colored cotton clothing.  This is actually "cooler" and less taxing on bodies than bare skin.

We will be walking on a mowed path that actually is quite wide.  However, we do live in a land featuring all kinds of natural elements, which includes ticks and poison ivy.  We would prefer that these are not your only memories of your visit, but be prepared to make your visit as pleasant as can be.  For ticks and poison ivy, full covering is important.  We especially like to wear light colored clothing to be able to see the ticks more easily.  I usually wear boots. Ticks have a harder time crawling up boots. Yes, I try to make things difficult for them. At the very least, closed toe shoes and socks are important.We also do a tick check immediately after walks.  When we head back to the house, we often head right to the shower and put clothing immediately in the wash.  That helps with both ticks and poison ivy.

We love our Prairie and we are eager to share it with others.  This tour offers a glimpse of some of what was here before settlement.  And that is very special indeed.

Any changes or notes of consideration for the Tour will be posted here, so stay in connection if you plan to attend.