Somerset WMA Grassland Establishment

This project will be to establish reconstructed prairie on approximately 15 acres of cropland on Somerset WMA and will cover the purchase of native seed, planting, and follow up maintenance of the planting site (ECP CPL prairie habitat activity #1-establish new grassland or prairie) and will include 2 years of follow up control of weeds and invasive plants in the planting site using chemical treatment or mowing as necessary (ECP CPL prairie habitat activity #4-mowing/herbicide for invasive control in newly established prairie/grassland). This project will increase the amount of habitat present along an important riparian corridor using accepted methods for prairie reconstruction. Once established, it is expected that the cover will be permanent. Seed will be purchased consistent with the DNR's Operational Order 124: Plant Material Standards for Native Plant Community Restoration to ensure that to the extent possible local ecotype seeds are utilized for the establishment.

The applicant has a strong history of conservation activities in the area and has helped purchase and enhance many parcels of land in Steele County. This project has the support of the Area Wildlife Office.

This project will provide important habitat to many species of wildlife, both game and nongame. It will also enhance watershed protection for the Straight River, which provides important habitat for wood turtles and several aquatic invertebrates that are species of concern.