Gathering the seeds of native plants in order to be able to restore other areas to more natural habitats is important work. It’s also a very enjoyable and educational activity.  Come and learn more about the native plants in our area parks.

After a brief introduction and training, volunteers will collect native prairie seeds on the restored sandy-soil prairie. The FMR land conservation team will redistribute the seed to areas of nearby Vermillion Falls Park that have lower plant diversity. This seeding will help improve habitat for pollinators and grassland birds.

All are welcome, however capacity is limited, and registration is required. All supplies and training will be provided, and volunteers will work closely with FMR staff. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, engaging Vermillion River Watershed residents to learn about the local watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.

Space is limited, so sign up today!

The short grasses and wildflowers of the dry prairie at the Hastings Sand Coulee Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) offer a unique beauty in the Twin Cities area. Fourteen rare plant and animal species call this coulee home. The deeply rooted prairie plants also help filter pollutants from runoff water before it can enter the nearby Vermillion and Mississippi rivers.

On this spring evening, volunteers will work with FMR staff to identify and pull garlic mustard, an invasive plant that is found in one small area of the oak woodland flanking the prairie. By removing this plant, volunteers will improve habitat for the native woodland plant and animal species in just a couple of hours, ensuring this garlic mustard patch does not spread.

This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, engaging residents to learn about the watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.

Please wear sturdy shoes, long pants and long sleeves, and be prepared to work on hilly, uneven terrain in a dense understory of buckthorn. All are welcome, but capacity is limited and registration is required. As always, all tools and training will be provided and volunteers are encouraged to work at their own pace and comfort level.