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Beginning
in the 1920's, this prairie was used by
Professor John W. Weaver and his students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for their pioneering studies in plant ecology. Today, this prairie is the longest-studied natural area in Nebraska. More than 80 kinds of birds have been seen in theNine-Mile Prairie, as well as mammals such as deer, badgers, squirrels, and mice. In years past, herds of buffalo passed through the site. About 350 kinds of plants are known to grow on the prairie. Most are native and some are now quite rare. These plants host a rich variety of insects, changing with the seasons. The Nine-Mile Prairie is managed by biological science professionals from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and interested citizens. Management techniques include occasional burning, haying, and chemical weed control. All management techniques are carefully planned and scheduled to foster the growth of native species and to inhibit introduced weeds. |