Deep Roots; Strong Shoots! Forty Years of Growing Conservation With Grand Prairie Friends

Sarah Livesay, executive director of Grand Prairie Friends, a regional conservation land trust, marked the group's forty years, tracing its origin (six people pooling money to buy Short Line Prairie) through pioneer cemetery prairies, the Warbler Ridge corridor in Coles County, national accreditation in 2025, and about 1,600 acres across eight counties. She then took questions on prescribed fire, mineral rights, and remnant versus restored prairie. Ann Rasmus of the University YMCA and Michelle, assistant director for Diversity & Social Justice Education, opened the session; painter Kim Curtis introduced her prairie exhibition in the Y's gallery and the speaker. Friday Forum + Conversation Cafe.