Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge

The Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area spanning multiple counties across western Minnesota and northwestern Iowa. It preserves native grassland habitats and the wildlife species that depend on them to survive.

This refuge was established to address the rapid decline of American grasslands that once dominated the region's landscape. The protection effort began after natural prairies had shrunk to a fraction of their former extent.

The refuge protects Dakota skipper butterflies, grasshopper sparrows, and greater prairie chickens while maintaining natural corridors for educational and scientific research.

Visitors can explore multiple sections for hiking, bird watching, and photography, with many locations offering information boards about prairie ecosystems. Move slowly through the landscape and allow time for observing wildlife.

The refuge provides habitat for specialized species like Dakota skippers and prairie chickens that have survived in only a few remaining grasslands. These animals depend on this protected space to maintain their populations.

Location: Minnesota

Inception: 2000

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/northern_tallgrass_prairie

GPS coordinates: 43.73370,-96.27380

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:20