Graceland Cemetery
Lawn to Native Prairie Transformation
CLIENT:
Graceland Cemetery
LOCATION:
Chicago, IL
PROJECT SIZE:
2.5 Acres
TIME PERIOD:
2014 - Present
ROLE OF THE FIRM:
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Native Seed & Plug Installation
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Natural Areas Stewardship
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Prescribed Fire
Project Description:
Pizzo & Associates, Ltd. completed a lawn-to-prairie transformation at the historic Graceland Cemetery in Chicago and the results are incredible. Starting in 2014, we worked with a landscape architecture firm and the Cemetery’s Board to create a beautiful prairie that is now home to birds, butterflies, and other native wildlife.
When we started the project in 2014, the entire area was lawn. We collaboratively designed and installed a 2.5-acre prairie with our native seed and native plugs and created a beautiful and functional prairie. Through regular stewardship (maintenance) and prescribed burns, the lawn has been transformed into a thriving natural habitat.
The native plants have attracted native birds, butterflies and other pollinators and is now a main destination for bird watchers in the Chicago area.