Discover South Sound PrairiesPrairie Appreciation Day: Beautiful and mysterious prairies hide in pockets throughout the South Sound. The best way to appreciate our region's prairies is to visit them in the spring when the open landscape bursts with color, and blooming wildflowers, rare butterflies, birds and other wildlife can be seen. Enjoy the beauty of our region's prairies at Prairie Appreciation Day on May 10th. This free family-oriented event takes place on Thurston County's Glacial Heritage Preserve and the Department of Natural Resources' Mima Mounds Natural Areas Preserve. It includes guided walks on the prairie, activity trails, and the opportunities to see endangered species including the Taylor's checkerspot butterfly and golden paintbrush. Last year, more than 1,000 people attended Prairie Appreciation Day. Please note that food will not be available at Glacial Heritage Preserve. You are welcome to bring a picnic. Please leave pets at home. While the Glacial Heritage Preserve is generally not open to the public, Prairie Appreciation Day is an excellent opportunity to visit one of South Sound's premier preserves and experience first-hand the beauty of our prairies. Other opportunities to visit South Sound prairies include:
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