Plum River Native Prairie project to start phase one
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A project by Minot State University in conjunction with Minot Public Schools and Audubon Great Plains to restore the former Erik Ramstad Middle School site to a native mixed-grass prairie is set to begin before the end of this month.
"We are very excited to get under way on a project that will provide a unique space for people to interact with a native prairie ecosystem in an urban setting," said Chad Williamson, MSU assistant professor of wildlife ecology. "This ecological restoration project will not only increase native biodiversity and rare species but promote social well-being and experiential education opportunities for the greater Minot community."
The first phase consists of ground tilling of the 14 acres which will begin within the next few weeks. Heavy equipment is being provided by Gooseneck Implement at no cost to the project.
Next spring and summer ground tilling will resume and the site will be treated with herbicides to prepare for seeding in the fall. Project plans include maintaining the existing walking track, sidewalks and parking areas for the use of prairie visitors. The project is expected to take several years, upon completion the area will resemble a native prairie that can serve as a habitat for species that may not currently be found within city limits.