American Prairie is a nature reserve in the Northern Great Plains of Montana, preserved by the American Prairie Foundation. The nonprofit conservation group have identified this Great Plains region of the US as one of four temperate grasslands in the world that can be saved from extinction – a necessary move as temperate grasslands are one of the least protected biomes in the world, and are incredibly effective carbon stores. The foundation is aiming to connect three million acres of the prairie, which would make it the largest nature reserve in the US, and to restore its biodiversity to pre-1800 levels. This includes increasing the population of beavers (who are excellent at restoring rivers), bison, prairie dogs, sage grouse, pronghorn and grizzly bears.
How to visit
American Prairie runs multiple huts, yurts and campsites throughout the reserve, offering ample opportunity for remote stays in nature. Set off on safari drives during the day, and take in the night sky after sundown. The region is one of the most remote in the US, so consult the website for maps to download ahead of arrival – you will not have phone signal once you enter the reserve. The closest airports can be found at Bozeman, Billings and Great Falls.
LEFT: A RIVER MEANDERS THROUGH AMERICAN PRAIRIE’S NATURE RESERVE IN MONTANA; RIGHT: A MALE SAGE GROUSE IN HIS REGENERATED HABITAT.
