The Wild side of the Monument
Pipestone National Monument was established to protect the pipestone quarries, but that’s not all the park protects. Pipestone National Monument also has Tall Grass Prairie—“taller than a horse”. There are over 300 different species of plants here. The prairie is also home to the Western Prairie Fringed Orchid, which is a federally listed threatened species, and the Topeka Shiner, an endangered fish. Fire was common on the prairie and was caused by lighting or even by American Indians to help replenish the prairie. Since natural prairie fires don’t happen here anymore, the park has annual prescribed fires that are controlled and monitored by wildland firefighters and studied for their effects on the prairie. But remember, do not start fires! Human-caused fires are dangerous to property and people. The firefighters pre-plan burns and only burn the prairie when the wind, humidity, and other conditions are just right.
While on the Circle Trail, look at the prairie, creek and all of the different living things in the park.
You may see colorful pieces of cloth hanging on trees or on the ground. These are tobacco ties left as prayers. Please do not touch them!
Draw and label 2 plants and 2 animals you see in the park. (They can be inside or outside.)
Putting it all together
This is a journal where you can write down your thoughts, experiences, or what you learned here at the Monument.
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior