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County approves DNR and U.S. Fish & Wildlife agreements for 14-acre prairie restoration
Summary
The board unanimously approved cost‑share and landowner agreements with the Indiana DNR and U.S. Fish & Wildlife to restore and connect roughly 14–24 acres of prairie at the Monroe County Nature Preserve; local costs are small and biological expertise will be provided by partner agencies.
Monroe County commissioners approved two agreements to create and expand native grassland at the Monroe County Nature Preserve.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will provide a cost‑share of roughly $3,700 to support seed and establishment of about 14 acres of prairie; a previously approved contract with Gentle Farms for up to $6,500 covers additional planting needs. Presenters said the county will be responsible for long‑term upkeep: the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service requires 10 years of maintenance for its part of the project while DNR involvement covers a 3‑year maintenance commitment concurrently.
Presenters noted technical support from DNR and U.S. Fish & Wildlife biologists, arborists and naturalists, and said the county plans to purchase an additional 10 acres nearby to connect contiguous prairie habitat, resulting in approximately 24 acres of restored grassland overall. Commissioners expressed support and asked about potential involvement from ornithologists to maximize wildlife benefits.
The board voted to approve the DNR cost‑share and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife landowner agreement unanimously (3-0).
