While in most parts of the Upper Midwest, the Paleozoic stratigraphy is buried under glacial deposits, millions of years of uninterrupted erosion have spectacularly dissected the landscape of the Driftless Area, creating 150+ m bluffs and narrow valleys. This dissected landscape stands out in sharp contrast to the flatter glaciated areas which surround it.
There are many features in the Driftless Area one being Goat prairies.
Goat prairies, sometimes termed hill prairies, or dry prairies are found mainly along the valley of the Upper Mississippi River in the Driftless Area, but can occur elsewhere. Normally a variant of tallgrass prairie, they are found on south-southwest-facing slopes, which receive considerable winter sun, causing a frequent freeze-thaw cycle. Bedrock generally lies not too far below. Left to themselves, they are subject to natural fire which rejuvenates the ecosystem.
Open grasslands along this stretch of the Mississippi are rapidly colonized by mixed forests. However, the low moisture content of the slopes, the winter freeze-thaw cycle, and the thin layer of soil help to keep goat prairies free of trees. Human suppression of natural fire has greatly reduced their numbers. For publicly owned goat prairies, fire has been carefully set and contained. Eastern Red-cedar tend to be the invading species of tree.
At this location looking to the northeast you'll see an example of a Goat prairie. To claim this find:
1. Describe the prominent geological feature of the Goat prairie. 2. What type of rock do you see present on the Goat prairie. 3. Estimate the angle of the slope. 4.
Optional post a photo of you or your GPS with the prairie in the background.