Prairie Restoration Project
It starts with the land restoration. Work to restore the farmland back to native vegetation will take 5+ years.
About the Project
EWU sits on 300 acres of beautiful, rural land in the heart of Eastern Washington, just on the edge of the Palouse. For decades, farmers utilized more than a third of the acreage on the west side of campus to harvest wheat. Now, in an effort to better serve Eastern and the greater community, we are embarking on a project to restore the farmland to its native “Palouse” habitat.
This major sustainability initiative will preserve natural land, foster research and educational opportunities, increase biodiversity and provide recreational space.
A Living Laboratory
Some of the best learning at Eastern happens beyond the brick and mortar. The Prairie Restoration Project will create an outdoor classroom and living laboratory for student research and hands-on learning experiences. Informational markers will allow inquisitive sightseers to explore tribal culture, floods that once ravaged the area, the native makeup of the land and plants, and the animals that call the prairie home.
Outdoor Recreation
Recreational enthusiasts will have a new place to enjoy the diverse beauty of the Inland Northwest. A multi-use trail system will provide access and fitness opportunities, while also keeping footsteps off the tender, developing prairie vegetation.
A New Place to Enjoy
Take advantage of the multi-use trails by:
- Cross-country skiing
- Mountain biking
- Walking or running
- Hiking
Support for the Prairie Restoration Project thus far:
$100,000 grant from the environmental protection agency
News ReleaseCountless hours of student and faculty research
About the ResearchPartnership with area tribes
Prairie DedicationHow You Can Be Involved
Invest in the main prairie restoration, which will include:
- Weed control
- Mowing
- Seeding and planting
- Grass and forbs implementation and maintenance
Invest in continued maintenance of the prairie site, which will include:
- Re-seeding as needed
- Addition of perimeter pines
- Maintenance and stabilization
Invest in trail development, which includes:
- Grading
- Trail materials
- Trail markers
Naming rights and sponsorship opportunities are available!
- Contact us if you’re interested.
