Va Native Plant Society walk- Piedmont Prairie Habitat

The site we will be visiting features rocky mafic geology has never been plowed, and these areas kept full sun over the past century retain remnant savanna ecosystems given in the absent of fires following the new fire laws of 1910. This site is a great example of the phenomenon we are witnessing throughout the Piedmont region of eastern North America - a region once home to bison, natural fires, and vast old growth grasslands intermingled with phenomenal old growth forests. These remnants are very rare, and likely constitute less than 5% of the Piedmont landscape now due to 300 years of agriculture and development. They are time capsules, glimpses of the past, and potential glimpses of a more resilient future.

The site we will be visiting is an open grassland area at the nexus of Raccoon Ford Road and a high transistor electric right-of-way. The general terrain is flat, and parking will be along Raccoon Ford Road at the designated location (details will be sent to those who register).

This walk will be led by Devin Floyd of Piedmont Discover Center, researcher of grassland habitats and published author.

Host or Publisher VNPS Piedmont Chapter