Jack McDowell’s Annual Prairie Appreciation Ride
The Madison Soil and Water Conservation District offers a great opportunity to see key pollinator habitat in action annually during the Jack McDowell’s Annual Prairie Appreciation Ride. The bike tour begins at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 12th at the Prairie Grass Trailhead, located behind the Madison County Senior Center in London (262 W. High St.), and extends 6 miles to the Madison-Clark County border. After the official ride ends, head onto South Charleston or return to London at your leisure.
The Madison Soil & Water Conservation District is leading the bicycle ride. There will be pit stops along the trail to discuss local flora and fauna, history, and conservation practices. The pace will be slow and appropriate for almost all ages.
The prairies have existed since before the time of the pioneer and were kept preserved by the railroad easement because the land could not be farmed. Now the prairies are maintained by volunteers who share Jack’s vision of saving this heritage and providing educational opportunities through stewardship.
Jack McDowell was one of the early “discoverers” of the remnant prairies of Madison and Clark counties and started the efforts to manage these prairie treasures amid threats from invasive woody plant and agricultural weed species. Jack McDowell passed away in 2012, but his dream to inspire others to preserve the Ohio prairie is not forgotten.
If you are interested in volunteering to help maintain the prairie remnants alongside other volunteers and SWCD staff, contact Broc Sehen at broc.sehen@oh.nacdnet.net or (740) 852-4003 for more information.
