When Davis was established in 1857, about 50% of the area was prairie. The settlers plowed the rich soil and turned it into farmland. In the process, most of the prairie ecosystem was lost.

Native prairie plants provide pollen and nectar for bees and butterflies. Birds eat plant seeds, insects, and rodents.  Rabbits and other wildlife use the grasses for shelter.

Prescribed burns remove the dead plants, return nutrients to the ground, and help to control invasive species. The long roots of native plants not only help them grow back faster after a fire, but also prevent erosion by holding the soil in place.

This former farmland was bought by the Village of Davis, and in 2011, was restored to prairie with the help of Taylor Creek Restoration Nursery.

The village invites everyone to enjoy this beautiful prairie and its quarter mile trail.