Woody encroachment is a problem in many grassland habitats throughout the U.S. and numerous studies have shown how restoration can be thwarted when woody plants are left unmanaged in grassland landscapes. Often, one particularly invasive woody species will take over a grassland patch, dramatically reducing plant diversity.
A crucial part of the UPPP is to establish sites that will promote the longevity of prairie plantings, and showcase the diversity of flowering forbs within grassland ecosystems to support pollinators in our area. This cannot be done, however, when there are trees, shrubs, and snags overtaking former grassland habitats.
