June 6

National Prairie Day

Get ready to appreciate the beauty of America's prairies on National Prairie Day! Join in on conservation efforts, discover wildlife, and explore untouched landscapes.

Yearly Date

First Saturday in June

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Mark your calendars for the first Saturday in June because it's time to celebrate National Prairie Day! This day was established by the National Prairie Day Coalition to raise awareness and appreciation for the beautiful and diverse ecosystems of prairies. Did you know that prairies cover about one-third of the United States? They are home to a wide range of plants and animals, making them essential for biodiversity. On this day, let's take some time to explore and learn more about these unique landscapes, and perhaps even participate in conservation efforts to protect them. Let's make this National Prairie Day a truly special one!

National Prairie Day Timeline

1870s

Prairie Land Settlement

In the 1870s, pioneers began settling the prairies, drastically changing the ecosystem and leading to the decline of native plants and animals.

1930

The Dust Bowl Era

During the 1930s, badly managed prairie lands led to severe soil erosion commonly referred to as the Dust Bowl.

1960

Conservation Efforts Initiated

In the 1960s, The Nature Conservancy and other organizations began their efforts to conserve and restore prairie lands across the United States.

1970

Endangered Species Act

The Endangered Species Act of 1973 provided additional protection for species residing in prairies that were threatened with extinction.

2006

National Prairie Reserve Established

The American Prairie Reserve, an independent, non-profit organization was established in 2006, aiming to create the largest wildlife reserve in the lower 48 states.

2016

First National Prairie Day

The first National Prairie Day was celebrated to raise awareness of the importance of prairie conservation and restoration.

How to Celebrate National Prairie Day

1 Explore a prairie

Visit a nearby prairie and take a leisurely walk to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife. Take some photos and appreciate the natural beauty of this unique ecosystem.

2 Support a prairie conservation organization

Donate to or volunteer with a prairie conservation organization to help protect these important habitats and promote awareness about the importance of prairies.

3 Host a prairie-themed picnic

Gather your friends and family for a picnic in a prairie or in a park with prairie-like features. Bring prairie-inspired dishes and decorations to celebrate in style.

4 Read about prairies

Find books or articles about prairies and learn more about their history, importance, and conservation efforts. Share your new knowledge with others and spread awareness about prairies.

5 Create a prairie-inspired art project

Get creative and make a piece of art inspired by prairies. Use materials like grasses, flowers, or natural dyes to add a unique touch to your creation.

Why We Love National Prairie Day

It's a celebration of the Great Plains

National Prairie Day is all about honoring and appreciating the beauty and importance of the prairie ecosystem. It's a chance to learn more about this unique landscape and the plants and animals that call it home.

Prairies are vital to our environment

Prairie lands are not only stunning to look at, but they also play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and providing important habitats for numerous species. National Prairie Day reminds us to protect and restore these precious natural areas.

It's an opportunity to explore and experience the prairie

On National Prairie Day, many organizations host events such as hikes, birdwatching tours, and educational workshops focused on the prairie. This is a perfect chance to get out and enjoy nature while learning more about this important ecosystem.