2020-2021 Tallgrass Prairie Center Highlights

Tallgrass Prairie Center. University of Northern Iowa.

Abstract

The Tallgrass Prairie Center empowers people to value and restore diverse, resilient tallgrass prairie. Our goals are to: 1) build the capacity of our partners and stakeholders to plant prairie and 2) expand public awareness of and appreciation for the prairie ecosystem.

The need for more diverse, native, perennial vegetation on the landscape has never been greater. Prairie is ideal wildlife habitat. Its deep roots hold the soil during even the heaviest rainfall, increase water infiltration and reduce nutrient pollution in our rivers. Over time, prairies can trap and store carbon. And let’s not forget the mental health benefits of spending time in nature. There is a lot of work to do if we want to see enough prairie on the landscape to provide these important services to everyone.

The TPC is committed to the University of Northern Iowa’s unifying goal: student success. Ultimately, our students can only be successful when Earth’s ecosystems remain healthy. On a more immediate level, the TPC provides hands-on experiences for students who want to pursue diverse careers in biology, conservation, ecological restoration, horticulture and environmental science.