(INTERNAL RIGHTS – May be provided to partners, media in some instances. See agreement at MNFO) Cone flower in bloom at Glacial Ridge. Glacial Ridge is located in Polk county in northwestern Minnesota. It is the largest prairie-wetland restoration project in U.S. history. In 2000, The Nature Conservancy purchased more than 24,000 acres, most of which had been converted to cropland, drained or mined for gravel. Restoration started in 2001 and since that time 21,000 acres was seeded with native prairie plants, 266 wetlands were restored and more than 100 miles of drainage ditches were filled in to restore the property's natural hydrology.The Conservancy worked closely with a number of partners including the Natural Resources Conservation Service through the Wetlands Reserve Program. Glacial Ridge and its native plants provide great habitat for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation including birding, photography and hiking. Most of the land has been added to the Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge.Photo Credit: © John Gregor/ColdSnap Photography
Read the article: Glacial Ridge Project completes largest prairie restoration in U.S. history
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