Volunteers needed to work on prairie

The Missouri Prairie Foundation will host a work day and campout at 9 a.m. Saturday at Friendly Prairie, nine miles south of Sedalia.

Less than 1 percent of Missouri’s original tallgrass prairie remains, but Sedalia-area residents can experience 40 acres of this all-American landscape. Owned by the Missouri Prairie Foundation, this small but biologically rich native grassland, called Friendly Prairie, needs regular maintenance to keep it free of encroaching trees and brush. 

Missouri Prairie Foundation members from across the state will volunteer with saws and loppers to help clear a fence row.

The Sedalia community may help clean up, take prairie hikes, and participate in a potluck picnic supper and overnight camping. The work day will begin at 9 a.m. Volunteers should bring chain saws, loppers, gloves and other necessary safety gear if they want to help. 

Children and other visitors may enjoy hiking and nature study. Supper will begin at 6 p.m. A large tent for shade and a portable toilet will be available on-site. A limited supply of water will be available. Tent camping is allowed.

Anyone who would like to attend should call the Missouri Prairie Foundation at 573-356-7828.