Tallgrass Prairie Habitat Management Program

Wachiska has long been recognized as one of the only organizations in Nebraska that will accept and protect smaller parcels of prairie as critical habitat for rare plant species and refuge for animals such as the Bobolink and American Badger.  Wachiska sustains nearly 1,000 acres of tallgrass prairies in 20 southeast Nebraska counties that are currently managed solely by volunteers.  However, several of the most knowledgeable, longtime volunteers are now in their 70s, 80s and 90s and even though their hearts are into the work, the physical work is challenging.  Hiring a professional prairie habitat manager now will allow for a smooth and successful transition from a 100% volunteer effort.

Having a professional prairie manager on staff will also help Wachiska develop a  more defined and coordinated access to prairies by groups such as local schools, boy and girl scouts, research groups, and families.  The prairie habitat manager position can act as a first line of communication related to questions and inquiries about a prairie.  In addition, continuing the current work to sustain the tallgrass prairies will ensure these treasures will be around for future generations.

Hiring a prairie manager will enhance Wachiska’s efforts to help citizens experience tallgrass prairies.  People have found solace during COVID-19 as evidenced by notes left at prairies they visited – “..the Prairie was beautiful, quiet and peaceful.  There are some things learned best in calm and some in storm.”  “Beautiful prairie area, thank you.  We were blessed with some fritillary (uncommon butterfly species) friends.”  “Exploring these uncharted seedless prairies have brought a warm light during the darkness of the pandemic Covid-19.  Take good care of each other and love your neighbor.”  

 There is a saying “you can’t save what you don’t know.”  Preserving tallgrass prairies can lead to a better understanding of the importance of natural ecosystems' diversity.

The mission of the Wachiska Audubon Society is to bring people together to preserve and restore native tallgrass prairie and other natural ecosystems, promote birding, support native wildlife, provide nature education opportunities, and advocate for sustainability of the natural community of which  we are all a part.