Pawnee National Grasslands, Northeastern Colorado
Most folks will tell you that the prairie is boring,
depressing, and certainly not a magical place.
The truth is, although the prairie may appear drab in comparison to more immediately impressive environs such as tall mountains,
clear lakes, or beautiful beaches, it is a fascinating and adaptive setting
which holds many wonderful stories and secrets.
Prairie grass is strong and resilient. It prevents erosion
of the topsoil and can withstand long periods of dryness. It provides food and
a home for many species of marvelous creatures.
beneath the surface
this drab land in its plain dress
full of surprises
~Cie~
Useful resources to learn about the North American grasslands.
Disclosure:
If you purchase one of the books featured in this search, I will receive a small commission. Any commissions earned will be used to fund the restoration of the historic Grover Hotel, which is now proudly owned by my son. Grover is a very small town on the northeastern plains of Colorado.
To follow along with the project and for more about the various ventures of the Ornery Old Lady (me) and the wild cast of characters at the Grover Hotel and Ghostly General Store, please visit the Good Stuff From Grover blog.
I like you you've described the prairie's understated beauty. It make me think of a really pretty slip under a simple but classic dress. I have never been to that part of the US but you've made me curious to experience it's beauty first hand. Good luck with the hotel renovation!
ReplyDeleteYou created a nice contrast in the haiku.
ReplyDeleteI know that beauty can be found anywhere, I'm just (always) too reluctant to leave my Green Mountains to seek it out.
ReplyDeleteI love Sharon Butala's writings about the rich landscape of the prairies. Especially Wild Stone Heart, about her observing the prairies over many years and what the land taught her bout the past.
ReplyDeleteI've never been to the prairie so this is really interesting and informative for someone like me.
ReplyDeleteThis was sooo enjoyable reading, Cie. I grew up on Dad's farm in Eastern Nebraska. He had set aside a preserve, game and native, on a small several acre triangle on a corner of the land across the creek. The nztive prairie pasture over there had never been plowed. Grazed, yes.
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Sometimes you have to really look to see the beauty. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI think often nature has it's own fascinating things if you look closely enough... I have lived in the desert a while and really loved that.
ReplyDeleteMy friend in West Texas took me to see the prairie when I visited there in 2006. In Australia I live near the ocean. 'This is my ocean,' she said. It was indeed fascinating.
ReplyDeleteThis is absolutely beautiful!!💖💖
ReplyDeleteLiked reading this. I really have no knowledge of prairies. You make them come alive.,
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