2026.05.02 Native Prairie Planting at Fort Ridgely State Park | Fairfax

Thank you for joining Great River Greening at Fort Ridgely State Park!

Established in 1911, this historic park sits on the bluffs of the Minnesota River Valley and is home to rare oak savanna and native prairie habitats. While logging, farming, and development have shaped the land for over a century, the bluffs still showcase prairie wildflowers and grasses beneath bur oaks, along with deep ravines filled with ash, basswood, sugar maple, and other trees.

During this restoration event, volunteers will plant native plants to add diversity to a recently restored prairie, helping strengthen biodiversity and preserve this unique landscape for generations to come.

Please note registrants will receive updates on any changes and final event details as the date approaches.

This event is open to all, and any necessary training will be provided.

Day of: Please arrive promptly, allowing time for parking and a short walk.

Safety: Ensuring safety is our highest priority. It is important that event participants wear close-toed shoes and long sleeves to protect against the elements. We recommend dressing for the weather; layers are key.

Release of Liability: All attendees at Great River Greening events release Great River Greening and its employees, officers, directors, or agents from any and all liability from claims of any nature whatsoever arising from participation to the extent such liability is directly attributable to the negligence of GRG, or its respective employees, officers, directors, or agents.

Note: By registering online, you will complete both the release of liability and photo release waivers. Please let us know at the event if you wish to be excluded from event photography.

Questions? Contact Jessica Drummond, Education + Outreach Coordinator:

jdrummond@greatrivergreening.org | Learn more: www.greatrivergreening.org

Thank You to Our Partners and founders

Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR)

Minnesota DNR

Fort Ridgely State Park

Photo by: Becca Tucker