The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Wild Bergamot at Dunn Ranch Prairie © Hilary Haley

The Facts

Grasslands are the landscape of America’s heartland. Deep-rooted prairie plants anchor soil, sequester carbon, and secure freshwater. Most of these lands have been converted for agriculture and ranching; today, tallgrass prairies are among the most endangered habitat types on Earth.

< 1: Percent of native tallgrass prairie left in Missouri

5,114: Acres protected in the Grand River Grasslands

70,000: Acres where we work with farmers and ranchers to conserve Missouri prairies

> 200: School children who visited the Conservancy’s new bison herd this year

The Solution

The success of our work is evident at Dunn Ranch Prairie in the Grand River Grasslands, where restored prairies remained green despite a record-breaking drought in 2012. These resilient grasses provide vital forage for bison and habitat for native birds.

The Conservancy balances conservation goals with the needs of working farms and ranches. We:

• Restore and protect prairie remnants to support native species
• Demonstrate how conservation can improve the health of working lands
• Help farmers and ranchers use conservation practices effectively

Act Now

Cost of Conservation 2012-13
Missouri Grasslands

On-the-Ground Activity $598,383
Outreach Activity $239,353

Total Conservation Cost $837,736
Fundraising Goal $450,000

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