Welcome to the CSU Teaching and Research Prairie Garden

 

What is the pararie garden and why is it important?

According to Dr. Jacobs (CSU biology professor), “Prairies are grasslands that once dominated the landscape of Illinois, nicknamed the prairie state. However, today they cover less than 1% of what used to be 22 million acres. In urban areas, remnant and restored prairies contribute to the biological diversity and green space while offering a needed respite to urban populations.”

Dr. Karel Jacobs, CSU professor of urban forestry, is presently engaged in research in the garden. “My students and I are evaluating the soil health in the prairie. Prairies and native  landscapes help restore and detoxify sites. So, our research involves comparing the health of the prairie soils with adjunct soils.” Dr. Jacobs also uses the garden to instruct students on how to teach biology.

What is the History behind the Prarie Garden?

Dr. Timothy Bell, professor of botany, started the garden in 2003 with a grant from the Illinois
Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Since then, additional faculty have become involved in its development and this year, due to a second IDNR grant, a prairie gardener and a volunteer coordinator have been hired. It was the volunteer coordinator, Ms. Kelly Bolger who entered the prairie garden in the citywide competition.

What are the Grants and Awards bestowed upon the CSU's Prarie Garden?

Grant - Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)

Award - Mayor’s Landscape Awards Program

Faculty Contacts

Dr. Karel Jacobs

kjacobs@csu.edu

Dr. Timothy J. Bell

tbell22@csu.edu

Dr. Floyd Banks

fbanks@csu.edu

Below are pictures of DEER present in the Prarie Garden