Prairies

Prairies

Prairies are relatively treeless vegetated areas that once covered the Central Plains and portions of the Midwest. Usually dominated by grasses, they also contain many forbs or “wildflowers.” Prairie plants are deeply rooted and can withstand drought conditions. Prairie vegetation is generally also fire-tolerant and many species actually depend upon fire to increase germination and reduce competition. Today almost all of the native prairies in North America have been obliterated due to agriculture, intensive grazing, or development.

Only one documented prairie remnant exists within Muskego: Luther Parker Cemetery. This pioneer cemetery still contains oak savanna and prairie vegetation from pre-European settlement. Muskego also has several prairie restorations (more correctly identified as “prairie plantings”) within the city. Engel Conservation Area, Bluhm Park, Denoon Park, and Badertscher Preserve have large areas of planted prairies.

Seeding

Muskego's prairie plantings utilize native seed purchased from plant nurseries that derive their native stock from southern Wisconsin sources. Seed is also hand collected from many of Muskego's conservation sites. A high species diversity in our seed mixes allows for a broad spectrum of native plants to fill various ecological and habitat types, providing better wildlife habitat and lessening the likelihood for invasive species to get a stronghold.

Benefits
  • Superior erosion control
  • Stormwater filtration
  • Groundwater recharge
  • Less long-term maintenance
  • Greater resistance to weeds
  • Increases soil organic matter
  • Rebuilds the soil
  • Provides wildlife habitat
Commonly Found Invasive Species
White Sweetclover
Yellow Sweetclover
Canada Thistle
Cut-leaved Teasel
Common Tansy
Queen Anne's-lace

Controlled Burning

Controlled or prescribed burns are recommended by the City of Muskego Conservation Plan to reduce the growth and spread of invasive non-native plant species. By reintroducing fire as an ecological process, native species are rejuvenated and ecological health is restored to prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Trained and experienced personnel conduct prescribed burns on natural areas throughout Muskego.