Discover the hidden beauty of Illinois prairies, wetlands, and native ecosystems in this episode of Along the Rock with host Emma Watts and guests Sammy Dalati and Maribeth Brewer from the Whiteside County Natural Area Guardians.

Learn how local volunteers are preserving some of Whiteside County’s most important natural areas, including cemetery prairie remnants, the Spring Slough Wetland, and the Lyndon-Agnew Nature Preserve. The conversation dives into prairie restoration, invasive species removal, controlled burns, native plants, conservation education, and the importance of protecting these landscapes for future generations.

Sammy and Maribeth also explain the science behind prescribed prairie burns, why native plants matter, and how community members can get involved in conservation efforts across the region.

If you love nature, conservation, prairie restoration, or learning more about the natural history of Illinois, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

🌿 Topics Covered:

What qualifies as a natural area
Prairie restoration and preservation
Controlled burns explained
Native plants vs. invasive species

Conservation work in Whiteside County
Volunteer opportunities with the Natural Area Guardians

The history of Illinois prairies and wetlands

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