Prairie x Design
a field experience
Aug 1, 2025
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Let’s go for a prairie ramble…
Modern, built landscapes trace their roots to the ecology and romance of the prairie—yet prairies are more than a celebrated plant palette. They’re dynamic, interwoven communities that thrive on resilience and cooperation. How do these ever-shifting systems foster such vibrancy? And how can they inspire fresh approaches to design and stewardship?
Join us for a one-day, immersive field experience in central Iowa with fellow landscape designers, landscape architects, horticulturists, and native plant enthusiasts to explore iconic prairies firsthand. Through guided site visits, expert insights, and thoughtful conversation, we’ll uncover how these living landscapes can shape the future of our built environment.
Prairie Tours
Four destinations across central Iowa featuring a kaleidoscope of prairie ecosystems, including sand prairie, wet-mesic prairie, sedge meadows, restorations, and reconstructions.
Expert Guides
Each site visit will feature expert commentary on topics ranging from reading the landscape, plant and insect ID, and ecological restoration.
Happy Hour
After a long, hot day on the prairie, we will enjoy a post-tour happy hour at the Iowa Arboretum.
Networking
Ample opportunities for dialogue, discussion, and good-natured debate among passionate professionals and enthusiasts. This event is designed to promote connections and conversation.
Register today!
Registration closes July 18!
