The Prairy Foundation proudly announces the recipients of its 2023 grants, recognizing organizations committed to preserving and promoting the tallgrass prairie grasslands and its historic communities. The recipients for this year are Dyck Arboretum of the Plains in Hesston, KS, and Pioneer Bluffs in Chase County, KS.
Dyck Arboretum of the Plains, located in Hesston, Kansas, stands out for its mission of cultivating transformative relationships between people and the land. Through native prairie landscaping classes, K-12 education curriculum training, and local hands-on ecological restoration projects, Dyck Arboretum connects the public with the essence of the prairie, fostering a deep appreciation for its ecological significance.
“We are impressed by the depth and variety of ways the Arboretum connects to the public regarding all things prairie,”
said Terri Gaeddert, spokesperson for the Prairy Foundation.
A special feature at the Arboretum is the Prairie Window Project – 18 acres of reconstructed prairie established through outreach with landowners and community partners that visitors can enjoy as a sort of “ecological playground” according to Brad Guhr, Education and Prairie Restoration Director. “I’ve been really excited since the notification of Prairy Foundation choosing Dyck Arboretum as a recipient of its 1% donation prairie conservation initiative,” said Guhr. “That is an admirable commitment for a business to make annually and a really cool connection to the prairie that inspires us all.” Learn more about the Prairie Window Project on the Dyck Arboretum website.
Pioneer Bluffs, situated just north of Matfield Green in Chase County, Kansas, is the second recipient of the 2023 awards. Pioneer Bluffs is dedicated to preserving the ranching heritage of the Flint Hills region. Located in the heart of the Kansas tallgrass prairie, this 12-acre homestead is a cultural gift to both those familiar with the area’s heritage and to the uninitiated eager to learn more about it. Pioneer Bluffs offers educational events, well-designed exhibits, and preserved outdoor spaces accessible to visitors. Through its exploration of the region’s history and contemporary issues affecting Kansas grasslands, Pioneer Bluffs serves as a cultural beacon for both locals and newcomers alike. Its growing collection of videos, stories, photos and music lends fascinating perspectives to life, past and present, amongst the grasses of this region. Learn more on the Pioneer Bluffs website.
“We commend Pioneer Bluffs for its unwavering commitment to preserving the legacy of Kansas ranching heritage,” added Aaron Gaeddert, operating owner of Prairy LLC.
The Prairy Foundation is honored to support these organizations in their efforts to celebrate and conserve the Kansas tallgrass prairie. One percent of Prairy® brand proceeds is dedicated to the foundation. We invite you to give to the Prairy Foundation at www.PrairyFound.org
The Prairy Foundation is a component fund of the Central Kansas Community Foundation.