Restoring Grasslands
Why Grasslands?
of Tennessee’s native grasslands are gone.
Carbon
Mature grasslands efficiently store carbon, mostly underground in their extensive root systems.
rare bird species in the southeast require grasslands. Dwindling grasslands is a major factor in the decline of these species.
Native grasslands are essential ecosystems in every region of tennessee.
Grasslands are one of the fastest disappearing ecosystems in the world—and the most impacted habitat type in Tennessee. Grasslands are more than barren fields of just grass. Tennessee has several different types of grasslands, many of which include trees, shrubs, and other woody plants. In fact, the Southeast contains more types of grasslands than the Great Plains and Midwestern prairies combined.
Grassland habitats offer many ecological benefits. Native grasses have strong, intertwining root systems that help hold soil together and reduce erosion. Mature native grasslands are also great at storing carbon in their roots and the soil for decades. The key component to all of these benefits is habitats filled with grasses native to the region and properly managing those habitats. Without regular management, critical grassland habitats—and the wildlife that rely on them—quickly disappear.
What we do for grasslands
Native
such as switchgrass, milkweed, and big bluestem provide excellent cover for wildlife.
acres of grasslands restored or conserved.
Prescribed
is critical to maintaining quality native grasslands and helps control competition from woody plants.
Are you a landowner?
Interested in learning if your land is a fit for habitat restoration?
Give
Your generosity helps manage wildlife populations and restore habitats for a more vibrant Tennessee.
More Habitat Restoration
Reviving Tennessee: West Fork Drakes Creek
In Sumner County, a collaborative restoration project has transformed 50 acres of less productive farmland into a healthy, functioning stream and wetland ecosystem which includes 4,400 feet of stream in the West Fork Drakes Creek watershed.
Types of Forests in Tennessee
More than 50% of the Tennessee landscape is forested—but not all forests are the same. Keep reading to learn about some common (and uncommon) forest types and where you can find them in Tennessee.
How Your Donation Improves Conservation
When you donate to Tennessee Wildlife Federation, you become a catalyst for change through our programs that focus on the perpetual improvement of conservation, wildlife habitat, recreation, and more all across our beautiful state.