Prairie Day offers guided walks and presentations

A unique opportunity to learn about the diversity of species that make their home in the tall grass prairie ecosystem comes with Prairie Day, an event scheduled for Saturday at Prairie Shore Trail near Tolstoi and Gardenton Park and Museum.

The Aug. 8 event will include guided walks from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Prairie Shore Trail, approximately three kilometers east of Tolstoi on Provincial Road 209. Prairie themed presentations will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Gardenton Park and Museum under the shade of the oak trees.

Guided walks will highlight a number of plant and animal species listed under Canada’s Species at Risk Act.

“While it’s too late in the season to spot the endangered Poweshiek Skipperling flitting about, you will likely see threatened Riddell’s goldenrod in bloom and an assortment of other provincially rare species,” a press release stated.

Presentations this year will include the Stuartburn Prescribed Burn Association which claims they’re the first such group in all of Canada.

“You will hear about their first official burn, their plans for the coming season and see their stocked-up equipment trailer.”

Attendees will also hear about a new research project on the western prairie fringed orchid which in Canada occurs only on the preserve and surrounding area.

Admission for the day is $10 per adult with children free. Volunteers from Gardenton Park will have hot and cold food available. Admission and food purchases are cash only.

Organizers suggest people bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunscreen and insect repellent. Because trail conditions can vary, attendees should also bring rubber boots or a change of footwear.