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.
[Illustration: Ranger hat]
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.)