Prairie Maintenance Planned in November

AMES, Iowa - Ames Parks and Recreation staff is planning prairie burns at three local parks and a City facility as weather permits in November. Burns will be scheduled at Moore Memorial Park, Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Christofferson Park, and natural space at the Ames Water Plant.

"Prairie burns provide a healthy disturbance to the native plant ecosystem," said City Forester Gabbi Edwards. "Prairie burns help prevent the build-up of dead vegetation; they discourage weeds from taking over native plants, and they improve the habitat for local birds, animals, and insects."

Notice of prairie burns in process will be posted at each park, and the parks will remain open with restrictions. Areas or trails close to the burn area may be temporarily closed. Visitors with health concerns should be aware of the potential for smoke and particulates.

"A prairie burn is an ecological way to encourage fresh growth in our park's natural places," Edwards added. "By next spring, the prairies will sprout quickly and by summer they will look lush and full again."

The Parks and Recreation Department manages 40 parks and offers approximately 180 athletic, aquatic, instructional, and wellness programs. Indoor programs are provided year-round at the Community Center and Ames/ISU Ice Arena. For more information, visit the Parks and Recreation homepage at www.amesparkrec.org or call the Community Center at 515.239.5350

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