Prairie Crossing Park - Rochester, MN

Prairie Crossing Nature Park is an 8.5 acre wooded park in NW Rochester. The land was acquired from a developer through the parkland dedication process and has a large quantity of beautiful mature Oaks but was also infested with Buckthorn, Thistle and other invasive species. In 2019 the City was awarded a $30,000 grant through the Conservation Partners Legacy program for habitat restoration and invasive species management.
Since 2020 a large amount of invasive species have been removed and native plant seeding has taken place. Various management tools have been used in the park including a prescribed fire by the Rochester Fire Department earlier this year. Nature trails have been installed along with two small nature play areas. Work will continue on invasive species management as well as encouraging the continued establishment of native species.