Waubay National Wildlife Refuge is in the Prairie Pothole Region-a region of the northern Great Plains where shallow wetlands, or potholes, are scattered about the prairie. About 10,000 years ago, glaciers scoured the landscape and gouged out millions of these basins. They filled with water as the glaciers melted. Today, this region is important habitat to over 50 percent of the continent's waterfowl.
A Haven for Wildlife
Prairie potholes are natural, shallow wetlands. Many are seasonal, going dry during the warmer months. These potholes are havens for wildlife and provide important water and food resources for hundreds of species.
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Ducks need grass to nest in. Grassland species, like these sharp-tailed grouse, also benefit from the conservation of grasslands and prairie potholes.
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Potholes dot this landscape. These wetlands replenish groundwater, filter nutrients and chemicals, and provide critical wildlife habitat.
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Many fire towers are a relic of the past. Fire is now used as a tool to manage grassland habitat. These prescribed fires help control invasive species and rejuvenate native prairie plants.
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Prairie plants are adapted to survive and even thrive after
a fire, even wildfires. Maximillian sunflower is just one of hundreds of species of flowers and grasses that make up tallgrass prairie.
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