Stewarding Eagan's Prairies

Prairies are among Minnesota's most valuable and endangered natural communities. Although they may appear quiet at first glance, they are home to hundreds of native grasses and wildflowers that support pollinators, birds, and other wildlife while improving water quality and adding beauty to our parks.

The City of Eagan actively manages more than 36 acres of native prairie using a variety of science-based practices, including prescribed fire, invasive species control, mowing, and restoration. These efforts help maintain healthy, diverse plant communities that benefit both people and wildlife.

Want to learn more? Click the link below to explore our interactive StoryMap and discover how prairies are managed, why they matter, and what makes these landscapes such an important part of Eagan's park system. 

Coming Fall 2026: Native Prairie Restoration at Central Park

This fall, the City of Eagan will begin restoring the hillside immediately north of the Central Park Pavilion to native prairie. This project will convert a difficult-to-maintain turf slope into a diverse native landscape that provides lasting environmental and aesthetic benefits.

The restored prairie will feature a variety of native grasses and wildflowers that provide habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. Native vegetation also develops deep root systems that help stabilize slopes, improve soil health, reduce stormwater runoff, and require less long-term maintenance than traditional turf.

What to Expect

• Restoration work will begin in Fall 2026.
• Existing turf will be removed, and the hillside will be seeded with a diverse native prairie mix.
• During the first one to three growing seasons, the area may appear sparse or weedy as the prairie becomes established. This is a normal and expected part of the restoration process.
• The site will be mowed and managed during establishment to encourage healthy native plant growth and control invasive weeds.

Prairie restoration is a long-term investment in the health and beauty of Central Park. With time, the hillside will become a vibrant display of native wildflowers and grasses that can be enjoyed by park visitors while providing valuable habitat for wildlife.

Thank you for your patience and support as we continue to enhance Eagan's parks and natural areas.