Prairie Information

Grinnell College's Athletic Field Complex includes nearly three acres of prairie plantings and 30 species of native prairie plants. The athletic complex, located north of 10th Avenue, combines state-of-the-art turf fields for our talented collegiate soccer and softball teams. The prairie plantings that add structure and diversity to the area is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing soil stabilization and filtering surface runoff.

The Center for Prairie Studies is promoting the establishment of prairie boulevard plantings in the Grinnell community. In May of 2001, the Center planted a prairie demonstration garden in a boulevard near the front door of its office building. Photos show how the garden has progressed. The garden contains over 25 native prairie species and serves as a teaching tool and an example of the minimal maintenance, beauty, and diversity of life and form that even a small urban prairie can provide.