By Blake Jackson
Missouri Department of Conservation is inviting the public to experience one of the state’s rare natural landscapes during a summer prairie event in Mount Vernon.
The program, called Last Light on Living Landscapes, will take place from 5:45 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, at Mount Vernon Prairie. Participants will first gather at Springfield Conservation Nature Center before traveling to the prairie site.
Before settlement, native prairie covered nearly one-third of Missouri. Today, only about 0.5% of those original grasslands survive, mostly in small remaining patches known as remnant prairies.
Over time, much of the land was converted for farming or planted with non-native grasses, making native prairie one of the rarest ecosystems in the world.
The guided ecology walk will focus on the sights and sounds of the prairie during sunset hours. Visitors will learn about the importance of healthy prairie habitats while enjoying opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and listening to evening bird and insect activity.
Seasonal wildflowers, native grasses, and changing light conditions will also be highlighted throughout the program.
Attendees are encouraged to bring water, walking shoes, binoculars, and cameras for the family-friendly outdoor experience.
For registration, visit https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/217702.
Photo Credit: pexels-jola-kedra
Categories: Missouri, General