The purpose of our Photo Gallery is to allow visitors to our website to quickly learn about the research activities that Prairie Biotic Research helps to make possible.
Notice, please, the variety of research sites, the varied topography of prairies. Most surviving prairies are on steep slopes, or on poor soils, or in places with limited rainfall, or so close to bedrock that tillage is impractical. A few survive as accidental reserves along railroad rights-of-way or in pioneer cemeteries. Many prairie remnants are very, very small. Prairie restorations come in all sizes, from small rooftop plantings to landscape scale projects. Every prairie is different and every site offers interesting research opportunities to the curious as well as great beauty, at different scales, to any observer who takes time to appreciate it.
Notice the varied species that these researchers are studying, and the lengths they often must go to in order to answer rather basic questions. Notice the beauty of these living things!
Notice that the frontiers of science are not all on Sumatra, or on Mars, but are quickly reached right here in the wild places remaining or being recreated. Often, all it takes is patient, focussed observation. Discoveries new to science can be made right by the roadside, if only we would be more observant.
Notice the researchers themselves: many are students, some are faculty, some are independent researchers. Often our small grant of $1,000 or less not only helps to support a researcher's work but also allows several assistants to get out into the field, which is a catalyst to learning and appreciation of nature for all involved.
Notice that the researchers seem fully engaged and are enjoying what they are doing. For some of us, studying nature is essential to our happiness. This is not derivative entertainment provided by the media but genuine personal engagement with nature. Prairie Biotic Research fosters curiosity!