A quarter-section of native prairie grassland described as a “gem” has been given by its owner, mixed grain and cattle producer Peter Galawan of Lenore, to a habitat heritage organization for protection.
The 160-acre plot located northeast of Virden has never been broken and for the most part, has been kept completely intact. To the average person, this may not mean much, but to the people who are actively engaged in protecting wildlife habitat, this is worth celebrating.
The Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC) strives to maintain and enhance fish and wildlife habitat throughout the province.
Carol Graham, MHHC Conservation Specialist, said the property is sentimental to the Galawans because the family yard site is located on the corner of the property.
As a child, Galawan spent a great deal of time on the native, prairie grassland exploring nature. The family viewed the space as a sanctuary for wildlife.
Graham said, “It is quite unique and rare to have that much open grassland still intact, especially in this part of the province. We will respect and honour the landowner’s wishes to ensure it stays the way it is.
“We will continue to use it for grazing and utilize a rotational grazing system as a tool to enhance and maintain the habitat as the landowner has done for a number of years with the current renter.”
Home to wildlife
The property is home to many grassland birds and supports Species at Risk such as the burrowing owl, ferruginous hawk, and Sprague’s pipit. With diverse landscapes surrounding the property, other animals such as sharp-tailed grouse find the habitat suitable as well.
Having lived on the property for many years, Galawan also took a special interest in observing insects such as beetles, butterflies, and moths.
“We often see that with producers, they become in tune with the environment. Where insects are concerned there is a benefit or a risk to crops, so producers are often quite observant of the species that inhabit their land. Landowners, in general, tend to have an innate interest in what the natural landscape has to offer and what it holds for the future,” said Graham.
The Galawan property is significant in its rarity for being kept in its natural state for so many years and in providing a much-needed benefit to wildlife.
With MHHC’s land management practices, the family can be assured that this parcel of land will continue to provide people with an opportunity to develop an interest in wildlife with the hope that many will recognize and value the different species that are part of the prairie landscape.
Submitted by Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation
