Where’s one of the best places to experience the Denver in which we live? The prairie – we live in the grassland ecosystem, not the montane or the mountains. So, while we’re waiting for springtime and greenery to appear in the Rockies, it’s a good time to visit the Plains Conservation Center (PCC) in Aurora, a short half hour drive from Cherry Creek. Comprising 1,100 acres of prairie, it is located at 21901 E. Hampden Ave. Hours are M-F 9-2 and Sat and Sun 9-5.You can hike on the property to see prairie dogs, raptors, pronghorn, coyotes, among other wonders. Wildflowers are at their best in late May and early June, so let’s plan an outing together!Thousands of schoolchildren come yearly to be immersed in the open space and learn about the grassland environment, early Cheyenne life on the prairie as hunter-gatherers, and the subsequent arrival of the pioneer settlers, while experiencing the replica sod homestead on the property. Perhaps your children or grandchildren have been there!The Denver Botanic Gardens education staff has successfully coordinated these programs for the last two years and is currently expanding the adult education offerings as well. Click here to register for these classes on the DBG Website. Check out Photography Expeditions at Plains Conservation Center for photo classes with DBG photographers Mar 1, April 28, and May 31, etc. See you there! Barb Hamman
Have You Visited the Prairie Conservation Center?
