Many people associate protected nature with mountains and forests. However, the prairies of Boulder, Colorado, also contain important ecosystems. These grasslands, including rare tall grass prairie remnants, support many native plant species and wildlife. They have existed for thousands of years.
A key feature of these prairies is their deep root systems. Native grasses can have roots up to 10 feet deep. These roots store carbon underground and help the prairies recover from fire. Unlike forests, prairies can regrow quickly after burns and continue to support nutrient cycling and climate regulation.
Several butterfly species live in these prairies, including the Western Dusted Skipper, Ottoe Skipper, Crossline Skipper, and Arogos Skipper. These butterflies depend on Big Bluestem grass for their life cycle. The state has listed all four species as needing protection, which shows the importance of these prairie areas…