Chicago Ridge Prairie

Description

Chicago Ridge Prairie Nature Preserve is part of a low ridge on an ancient shoreline of glacial Lake Chicago. There are several low ridges and swales that create variable moisture gradients resulting in a mosaic of floral communities with high species richness, including over 150 vascular prairie plants. The reserve is made up of Grade A and B mesic gravel prairie and Grade B wet prairie of the Morainal Section of the Northeastern Morainal Natural Division recognized by the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory. Mesic gravel prairie is one of the most uncommon natural communities in Illinois. The mesic gravel prairie is dominated by prairie dropseed, big bluestem, and little bluestem, while the wet prairie is dominated by prairie cordgrass and blue joint grass.