Kansas University's Prairie Acre, which lies beyond the foreground stone fence, is a small piece of prairie, approximately a half acre, established in 1932 and located on the south side of Blake Hall and the chancellor's residence, the Outlook.

Down behind Blake Hall, bordered by two asphalt streets and surrounded by a low rock wall, is a small, one-third acre of native prairie, overflowing with tall grass, wildflowers and history. This area is Kansas University’s Prairie Acre, which is virgin prairie that has never been tilled, plowed or shoveled.

But the Prairie Acre, a campus landmark since 1932, has been overrun by non-native and invasive plant species.

This year, in a project headed by Kelly Kindscher at the Kansas Biological Survey, KU hopes to restore the prairie to its former glory. There have been a few prior attempts at restoring the prairie, but this year’s project hopes to be more sustainable over the long term.

“I felt a call to make it all that it was,” Kindscher said.

The goal of the restoration project is to return the native species to the prairie, maintain the prairie and, eventually, expand it.

Over the summer, students in the environmental studies department found that non-native and invasive species have spread in the prairie; these will have to be removed for the restoration. Volunteers will begin removing those plants and collecting seeds of native plants from other prairies this fall, and hope to begin planting in the spring.

KU’s Center for Sustainability, a partner in the project, has started recruiting volunteers to restore the land, raising awareness about the project and fundraising as well.

“One of the things that our office does well is to look at these projects and bring different people and departments from across campus together to really look at some of the challenges in a more interdisciplinary way,” Jeff Severin, director for the Center for Sustainability, said.

Project supporters believe it’s important to restore the prairie because of the history, ecological significance and the learning opportunities the prairie provides.

According to the National Park Service, the prairie is one of the most endangered ecosystems on the planet. Bob Hagen, a professor of environmental studies, said that means the Prairie Acre provides students a rare hands-on experience.

“We now recognize that the whole campus can be part of the classroom,” Hagen said. “Having someplace so close where you can learn about biodiversity and ecology is a real asset.”

The restoration also hopes to preserve the history behind the prairie, including the tie to Kansas’ pioneer days.

Kansas University's Prairie Acre, which lies beyond the foreground stone fence, is a small piece of prairie, approximately a half acre, established in 1932 and located on the south side of Blake Hall and the chancellor's residence, the Outlook.

Severin plans to use some fundraising money to place signs informing students and the community of the significance of the land.

As the project proceeds, environmental studies classes will continue to be involved in maintaining the prairie. Supporters of the project also hope the interest from the community and departments across campus will help keep the project sustainable.

“We’re hoping to put it back on the map,” Kindscher said.

Courtney Masterson, a graduate student and project member, said the art and architecture departments are two of the departments interested in utilizing the space. She added that the scenery will be there for anyone to enjoy.

“I love the idea of having that escape on campus,” Masterson said. “(The prairie) is truly a peaceful place for me, and I look forward to that being something students can enjoy as well.”