ACRE Prairie

Goal:

The reason for removing the Peterson Prairie was understood when the projects were first allocated to their specific groups. But, throughout the semester, the goals for creating the new prairie were identified through many conversations among the group, and with Dr. Bowling and Mrs. Stevens. At first, it was known that a species list, a trail design, and possibly a few signs for the new prairie were needed. So, from this information, a few draft products were created, and after presenting these draft products to the class and professors, considerable changes were made. For example, the species list was only the common and scientific names to begin with, so we added average height, bloom time, bloom color, conservation status, pollinators attracted, ease of establishment, planting time, and years to establish, for each of the species. Furthermore, the draft signage was changed to include aspects such as a QR code to an informational Purdue Extension pdf, more images, and more educative text. After further conversing with Mrs. Stevens, it was decided to make six signs – in total – to highlight the different aspects of the prairie while providing education to its visitors. Through consulting Dr. Bowling, the sizing for the signs was determined, with the five informational signs being (24” x 18”) and the welcome sign being (48” x 32”). The Literature Review, along with additional research on prairies and common interpretive sign designs helped complete the project. 

Community Project Partner:

Rachel Stevens, Purdue University's Agronomy Center for Research & Education (ACRE) 

• Emely Gramajo
• Emerson Lemberis
• Kyrstin Roberts
• Bailey Temple
• Claire Wilson
• Maddi Wilson