We’ve received several reports of areas in the Blackhawk Prairie being trampled by visitors posing for photographs. Why is this a problem and how bad is it?

When the weather is nice in the fall, dozens of photographers are taking advantage of the incredible beauty of the Blackhawk Prairie almost every evening. Unfortunately, many of the photos are taken with people standing in the prairie itself. As a result, we’re seeing a number areas where the native grasses are being trampled down. This will not only have a negative impact on the beautiful “look” the Blackhawk prairie has had in the past, but these trampled areas are also more susceptible to invasive weeds created by this disturbance.

The Blackhawk prairie is also home to various wildlife and nesting birds such as sedge wrens. The damaged to the prairies has a negative impact on them, as well.

Photographers using the Conservancy is wonderful, and we kindly ask that all visitors please stay on the trails & mowed paths and refrain from walking out into the prairies. Thank you!