“We’re striving to put the right seed, in the right place, at the right time.” - Abby Macek, Restoration Specialist

Since 2022, the restoration of Mio Prairie in the Huron-Manistee National Forest has focused on enhancing the local ecosystem by removing invasive species which threaten native plant populations. To support this effort, native species are being reintroduced through seed collection and planting in affected zones.

This remote, six-acre site has been established for the propagation of native plants. A buck-and-rail fence encloses a half-acre area to protect it from disturbance while these sensitive plants grow and flourish. In fall 2025, Huron Pines staff and volunteers planted 17 species of native wildflowers and grasses within the fenced area—amounting to 3,200 individual plants—and scattered an additional 44 pounds of native seed across the area to further boost biodiversity. Continued weeding and a watering system will help maintain this site which will provide seed and local genetics for future restoration efforts across the broader region.

Mio Prairie is home to a rare and declining pine barren landscape, a unique ecosystem Huron Pines aims to restore across the broader region for wildlife habitat and resilience. As the landowner, the U.S. Forest Service has been a key partner in this effort, sharing the common goal of habitat restoration and protection of this area.

While this site is remote, there are plans to involve local volunteers in hand removal of invasive species and the collection of native seed. To learn how to volunteer to assist with projects like these, visit our volunteer page.

Huron Pines would like to recognize the U.S. Forest Service for making this project possible. This project is part of the larger Northern Pine Plains Partnership (NPPP) which aims to enhance ecological outcomes for species in the jack pine ecosystem through coordinated management of public lands.