Description
The Nature Conservancy has protected approximately 160 acres in Polk County. This property contains native wet prairie that provides important habitat for grassland-dependant birds including greater prairie chickens that perform their booming courtship displays there.
The property provides a vital wildlife corridor as it connects Tympanuchus and Thorson Prairie Wildlife Management Areas, and also is close to TNC’s Pankratz Memorial Prairie, Pembina Trail Preserve and Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge.
The Nature Conservancy acquired the land through the Conservation Partners Legacy Program administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The program funds projects that restore, enhance or protect forests, wetlands, prairies and habitat for fish, game and wildlife in Minnesota.
Funding for the Conservation Partners Legacy Program was provided by the Outdoor Heritage Fund, which was created under the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, through an appropriation by the Minnesota Legislature as recommended by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council.
TNC manages Conservation Partners Legacy Program properties using strategies including prescribed fire, conservation grazing, and the removal of encroaching trees and brush. These methods will benefit wildlife, preserve clean water and provide recreational opportunities.
