Real Projects, Real Restorations

Discover the success stories behind some of our favorite projects—from vast prairies to backyard transformations. Our case studies showcase real places, real people, and real work to make Minnesota’s native landscapes flourish once again. Keep reading to explore what we’re doing to restore native ecology, one project at a time.

Prairie Restorations Demonstration Prairie — Princeton, MN

As part of our expansive 450-acre location in Princeton, our headquarters and garden center are nestled within several acres of beautifully restored native sand plains. These vibrant ecosystems, viewable year-round, showcase a rich diversity of plant life. Native grasses like June Grass, Blue Grama, Big and Little Bluestem, and Prairie Dropseed thrive alongside a colorful array of native wildflowers, including varieties of Goldenrod, Aster, Prairie Clover, Lupine, Milkweed, Thimbleweed, Puccoon, Pasqueflower, and the delicate Prairie Smoke. These resilient plant communities offer a living display of the beauty and strength of Minnesota’s native landscapes throughout the seasons.

closeup photo of yellow and orange flowers with a barn in the background
close-up photograph of purple bee balm with a large greenhouse in the background

Riverside Park Greenhouse Rain Garden/St. Cloud Parks—St. Cloud, MN

The Riverside Park Greenhouse rain garden was created following the construction of the greenhouse in 2009. Prairie Restorations seeded the basin with a diverse native mix, carefully blending upland and wetland species. To ensure long-term success, the area was protected with erosion blankets, and native plants were strategically installed to enhance species diversity. Since its establishment, Prairie Restorations has provided ongoing management, including dormant season mowing, prescribed burns, and targeted treatment of invasive weeds. The result is a vibrant space that offers high-quality pollinator habitat, improves water quality, and showcases natural beauty that evolves with the seasons.

Johnson Residential Installation & Maintenance—Esko, MN

Gloria reached out to PRI after her new house was completed, dissatisfied with her
landscaper’s “no-mow” lawn, which was predominantly clover and weeds with a bit of
fescue. Done in phases, the Johnson property now includes an acre of meadows and
landscaped bends surrounding the property. This project provides a great opportunity to
see the prairie’s evolution from year to year, seeing different stages due to the staggered
installation.

House surrounded by a field of yellow flowers.
photo of butterfly weed

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge—Zimmerman, MN

Established in 1965, the 30,700-acre Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge was created thanks to the efforts of local conservationists and hunters determined to restore the wildlife values of the St. Francis River Basin. This refuge now stands as a wild remnant where the western prairies meet the northern woods, featuring a variety of habitats, including oak savanna, prairie openings, forests, wetlands, and riverine environments.

Designated as a state Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, the refuge lies within the Mississippi Flyway, making it a key stopover for migratory waterfowl, songbirds, and sandhill cranes during the spring and fall. It also provides critical breeding grounds for many resident bird species.

Prairie Restorations has proudly partnered with the refuge for over 40 years, contributing to numerous projects, including the installations around the Oak Savanna Visitors Center and the newly developed Amphitheater.

Ready to Restore Your Landscape?

Whether you're looking to transform your backyard or undertake a larger conservation project, Prairie Restorations is ready to create a vibrant, sustainable landscape perfect for your property. Reach out to our team to discuss how we can help your restoration project!

Smiling person holding a green plant, wearing hat.