Prairie Potholes Sam Wiernusz

Location Prairie Potholes are found in the northern midwest region of the U.S. Mainly the Dakotas and Montana and Minnesota, extending up into southern Canada.

Fun Fact Prairie potholes are home to over 50% of North American waterfowl

Formation These unique wetlands were formed by glaciers. They get filled with water from snow melt and precipitation. Some stay filled all year while others may dry up for a short period.

Flora Prairie potholes are generally shallow, with the center deep spots inhabited by underwater vegetation, while the more shallow shores are concentrated of cattails and bulrushes. Around the outer edge, sedges are predominately found.

Fauna As stated earlier, over 50% of our nations waterfowl call prairie potholes home. Blue-winged teal, shoveler, and canvasback all breed in this wetland. Pelicans and bobolink utilize it as well.

Threats The main threat to prairie potholes used to be agriculture Nowadays the primary source for loss of this unique wetland is urban sprawl Only 50% of prairie potholes remain