Illinois cornfield transformed into a prairie with 134 species of plants September 15, 2026 at 10:40PM

A 15-year prairie restoration project in Illinois shows significant plant establishment. Seventy percent of planted species were recorded, and many native plants also appeared. Active management, including prescribed burns and weed control, shaped the prairie's development. Different habitats supported varying species success rates over the years. This restoration highlights the resilience and evolving nature of prairie ecosystems.