Celebration of the Expansion of Koester Prairie

The Koester Prairie Unit of Prairie Creek WMA has been expanded by 138 acres, bringing the total to nearly 600 acres. A celebration was held on June 20, 2023. The newly added land is cropland, which will be restored to prairie in the coming years. It will provide extended space for the birds, insects, and other species that need large unbroken grasslands to thrive. Species of special concern include bobolinks, meadowlarks, grasshopper sparrows, and the endangered Henslow's sparrow. The expansion will also enhance the value of the site for the many people who visit there to enjoy the open spaces and learn more about Minnesota's rich natural heritage.

The expansion comes through the joint efforts of the Koester family, the Trust for Public Land, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Clean River Partners, and Great River Greening.

Pictured: The Koester family (right) and staff members of supporting organizations