Trout Hollow Hill Prairie in Monroe County is one of Illinois’ last remaining hill prairies. Hill prairies are found on steep, rocky bluffs where native prairie grasses and wildflowers thrive in full sun. Without active stewardship and periodic prescribed fire, eastern red cedars have invaded the prairie. The cedars have shaded out native flowers and grasses and decreased habitat for the wildlife that depend on the prairie, like badgers and ornate box turtles.
In winter 2024, we took a critical first step in restoring Trout Hollow by beginning to remove the encroaching cedar trees. Although native to Illinois, these trees spread aggressively in fire-suppressed landscapes, casting wide shade that suppresses prairie plants and reduces biodiversity. Clearing the cedars allows sunlight to reach the ground, giving native grasses and wildflowers a chance to recover.
Restoring this site is a slow yet intentional process. Steep slopes on the bluff make the work physically demanding, and careful removal of cedars from the prairie footprint is necessary to give the historic seed bank a chance to rebound. Each step we take brings the prairie closer to its original size, improving habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
July 2024 – Before restoration. Cedars have invaded and are shading the prairie.
April 2025 – Restoration in progress. 60% of cedars removed, opening the prairie to sunlight.
Interested in Helping the Trout Hollow Hill Prairie?
As restoration continues, there will be opportunities for volunteers to get involved. If you’d like to be part of this effort, sign up for our volunteer email list to stay updated on upcoming events.