The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. Rangelands comprise 54% of land globally and 30% of North Dakota. North Dakota rangelands are primarily grasslands or prairies that support the livestock industry while providing critical habitat for wildlife.

In celebration of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, North Dakota State University Extension and the Society for Range Management will host Prairie Palooza on June 16 at NDSU’s Central Grassland Research Extension Center near Streeter, North Dakota.

At the family-friendly event, participants can learn about the importance of prairie ecosystems, prairie plants, soils, birds and pollinators. There will be youth activities, including a scavenger hunt. The event will feature a session on traditional plant knowledge and Native American culture led by Linda and Luke Black Elk.

“Everyone is invited to join us to learn about and enjoy the rangeland ecosystems of North Dakota,” says Kevin Sedivec, NDSU Extension rangeland management specialist and interim director of the Central Grassland Research Extension Center.

The event will start at 1 p.m. CT with an optional birding tour. The main event will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. and will include dinner.

Attendance is free; however, registration is requested to aid in event planning.

For more details or to register, visit ndsu.ag/PrairiePalooza26 or contact Benjamin Menapace at 810-618-1550 or benjamin.menapace@ndsu.edu.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – May 13, 2026

Source: Miranda Meehan, 701-219-9251, miranda.meehan@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu