MSUM’s experimental planting of native prairie in full bloom this summer

MSUM’s experimental planting of native prairie in full bloom this summer

MSUM’s experimental planting of native prairie is in full bloom this summer.  The area was planted two years ago along 11th Street across from Owens Hall and boasts several varieties of native grasses and wildflowers.  An interpretive sign helps people identify the range of flora that can be seen there. The planting demonstrates what the Minnesota prairie looked like before European settlement at the turn of the century. Also, it has recently become very popular bee habitat.  Bees pollinate over 25 percent of our food crops, and have been experiencing massive die-offs in recent years due to Colony Collapse Disorder. Native prairies require little maintenance, and use no chemicals or fertilizers.

Please take a minute to stroll around the planting site, and see how many different varieties of wildflowers can be identified.  The native prairie planting is a visible, enjoyable, and ecologically friendly project as part of MSUM’s Sustainability Initiative, and was undertaken in partnership between the Physical Plant, Grounds Maintenance, Administration, and the Office of Campus Sustainability.