A Rare Prairie Needs Your Help This Summer

At first glance, it might not seem unusual.

Just 40 acres in western Madison County, near Edwardsville. But this rare sand prairie is home to threatened frogs and turtles, hundreds of native prickly pear cactus, and a remarkable community of plants and wildlife that has become increasingly uncommon in southern Illinois.

As development continues to reshape the landscape around it, places like the Knoll Family Wildlife Sanctuary are becoming even more important.

They provide food, shelter, and breeding habitat for wildlife while preserving a natural heritage that is disappearing across our region.

When HeartLands Conservancy acquired the property in 2023, we also accepted an important responsibility.

Years of invasive plants had begun crowding out the native flowers and grasses that make this prairie unique. Bradford pear trees and other invasive species were spreading quickly, reducing the habitat that frogs, turtles, pollinators, and many other wildlife species depend on. The pond also needs restoration so it can once again provide healthy habitat for the wildlife that relies on it.

Over the past two years, we’ve made encouraging progress. Invasive plants have been removed from portions of the property, and restoration of native prairie vegetation is underway. But much more work remains. Ongoing stewardship is essential to keep invasive plants from reclaiming the prairie and to help native grasses and wildflowers flourish once again.

This summer, we’re inviting our community to help continue that work.

Your tax-deductible gift will support the hands-on restoration that makes a lasting difference—removing invasive plants, restoring native prairie habitat, improving the pond, and creating a healthier home for frogs, turtles, pollinators, birds, and countless other wildlife species.

Thanks to the generosity of the Prairie State Conservation Coalition, the first $7,000 donated this summer will be tripled. Every dollar you give, including your monthly gifts for a year, will become three dollars for restoration, allowing us to accomplish even more while this matching opportunity is available.

Summer and fall are important seasons for caring for a prairie. 

The work we accomplish now helps native flowers and grasses reclaim the landscape, creating healthier habitat for wildlife for years to come.

We hope you’ll consider making a gift this summer to help restore the Knoll Family Wildlife Sanctuary and protect one of southern Illinois’ rare natural treasures.

You can also support the prairie through gifts of stock, donor-advised funds, cryptocurrency, and retirement accounts.

You can also contact Mary Vandevord, and she will be happy to help you: ma**@*******************cy.org or by phone (618) 566-4451 ex 20.