Happy winter solstice (and Day 8!) from the nature center!
If you appreciate the work being done to faithfully restore Twelve Hills, there are no three people more deserving of your praise than Annemarie Bristow, Don Pearson, and Marcie Haley. Their knowledge, dedication, and commitment to Twelve Hills are astounding — and enduring. As Master Naturalists, they have devoted countless hours to site restoration, removing invasive species and reintroducing native plants. Annemarie and Don can be found at the nature center on most days, leading restoration projects and offering guidance to other volunteers. Marcie, as board president, steers the overall vision and programs for Twelve Hills on top of her hands-on work. To say we are lucky to have them cannot be overstated.
Their efforts not only sustain the health of the prairie but also set the stage for one of its most striking displays: the beauty of native grasses in winter. During this season, the Blackland Prairie’s grasses — such as little bluestem, big bluestem, Indiangrass, and switchgrass — take on hues of gold, copper, and bronze, glowing as if lit from within. The low winter sun casts a warm light that turns their feathery seed heads and swaying stems into a magical, ethereal sight. Photos do it no justice!
These grasses are more than beautiful; they are vital to the prairie’s health. Their deep root systems, reaching over 15 feet underground, stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and store carbon. Above ground, the dried stalks provide essential food and shelter for birds, insects, and small mammals. For instance, little bluestem offers winter cover for ground-nesting birds, while the seeds of switchgrass and sideoats grama sustain finches, sparrows, and other wildlife.
With less than 1% of the Blackland Prairie remaining, preserving these native grasses is critical. They not only protect the soil and support wildlife but also serve as a connection to the prairie’s history and its seasonal rhythms. Seeing them aglow at sunset is a poignant reminder of the importance of conserving these wild spaces. Protecting native grasses means safeguarding the prairie and the vibrant life it sustains.
