Prairie Skies
A prairie is a wonder to behold. As Merriwether Lewis observed, “. . .one of the most beautiful and picteresk seens that I ever beheld.”
Since the time Merriwether first saw this wonder of nature, prairies have been plowed, developed, overgrazed, and abused to the point only fragmented remnants of the original gralsslands remain. Less than 5% are considered “virgin.”
Don’t be fooled by the peace of the prairie and overlook the hazards. Summer temperatures can top 100 degrees and can be the source heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Tornadoes are a possibility. Sudden storms often contain lightning and on the wide open plains very dangerous. It is reported, 50 to 100 people are killed by lightning each year. And there are rattlesnakes, chiggers, and ticks to be aware of.
On the other hand, a prairie offers solitude and a remoteness little else can offer.
It is said, “Anyone can love a mountain, but it takes soul to love a prairie.”
