North American Prairie Conference field trips showcase LRTF projects

Several projects funded by the Iowa Living Roadway Trust Fund were on display during field trips at the recent North American Prairie Conference hosted by the University of Northern Iowa. Chris Barber, UNI, is shown here explaining a LRTF research project comparing mycorrhizal inoculant and micronutrient treatment on early prairie establishment.

550 people from 23 states attended the national conference. The LRTF was a major sponsor.

 
 
 
Roadside Opportunities

The native grasses and wildflowers of Iowa’s original prairie landscape are well-adapted for use on roadsides. Hardy and beautiful, native roadsides offer aesthetic, economic, environmental, and educational opportunities. Establishing prairie plants in roadside rights-of-way:
 
  • provides low-maintenance weed and erosion control
  • reduces surface runoff and erosion by improving infiltration
  • reduces snow drifting and winter glare
  • ensures sustainability by increasing species diversity
  • enhances wildlife habitat
  • beautifies the landscape by providing
    ever changing color and texture
    throughout the year
  • preserves our natural heritage

Support Iowa's Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program

The state of Iowa invests in the enhancement and protection of its natural and cultural resources through REAP. The annual REAP appropriation is set by the legislature, and is supplemented by sales of natural resource license plates. The Living Roadway Trust Fund is one of many beneficiaries of the program.  Iowa citizens are the biggest beneficiaries, and have several opportunities to ensure REAP's success. Visit REAP to learn more, or click the license plate for information about purchasing natural resource plates.
 

 
Click here to view this native Iowa plant life.
  Scientific Name:
    Cornus sericea

  Common Name:
    Red Osier Dogwood

  Height:
    6-12'

  Bloom Month:
    May Jun

  Bloom Color:
    White



 

2010 Iowa Wildflower Calendar