Although we strive to purchase mostly grassland areas, sometimes cropland is included. Once the lands are purchased any cropland area must be restored through planting native grasses and wildflowers. When we do a restoration we try to imitate what species where present in native conditions. We often harvest native grass and forbs (wildflowers) from another native or pre-restored unit, then plant that seed on the new restoration. 

The district uses prescribed, or planned, fire to restore and maintain prairie habitat on a rotational basis, burning an area once every 4-5 years. These fires rejuvenate prairie habitats as well as cleanse it of accumulated, dead vegetation and stimulate fresh growth. The native plants and grasses benefit from nutrients being returned to the soil allowing them to produce more seeds and re-grow in greater abundance. 

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Establishing Waterfowl Production Areas is one way interested landowners can contribute to the survival of North America's migratory birds. Another way you can contribute is if you are interested in restoring drained wetlands in Lincoln or Lyon counties in Minnesota. Contact the Big Stone Wetland Management District at 320-273-2191.

In addition to managing purchased prairie units, the USFWS also purchases easements on privately owned lands. These habitat easements protect existing grasslands and wetland complexes by restricting the drainage of wetlands or tilling of prairies. It functions as a privately held wildlife refuge where the landowner controls most other aspects including hunting. The USFWS does, at times, help with habitat improvement projects on their property.

The USFWS’ Partners for Fish and Wildlife (PFW) program assists landowners with the restoration and management of habitat on private land. Biologists work with landowners to design wetland and grassland restoration projects or other habitat improvements. The program may also provide financial assistance for these improvements.