As the South Dakota Prairie Butterfly Garden enters its fourth growing season, the perennial plants are spreading out of their original plots, making the garden appear like a South Dakota prairie.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SDGFP) worked together to create this outdoor learning area for adults and kids that focuses on pollinators and the plants that sustain them. It is a place where people can get outside and discover how butterflies live, growing their understanding and appreciation of the conservation efforts involved with declining wildlife. The approximate 100’ by 50’ garden is located on the grounds at the Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, a popular local recreation area within biking distance of the South Dakota State Capital. The walking trail inside the garden brings visitors inside, while a kiosk provides information on prairie butterflies and skippers, their id