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Midwestern Oak Savanna

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description Midwestern Oak Savanna Overview

The Midwestern Oak Savanna is a transitional grassland ecosystem of the upper Mississippi Basin, occurring where periodic fire maintained a low density of oak trees—chiefly bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa), white oak (Q. alba), and black oak (Q. velutina)—above a prairie understory. Historically it covered millions of hectares from Minnesota and Wisconsin to Ohio and Missouri.

Following European settlement and widespread fire suppression, it has been reduced to well under one percent of its pre-settlement extent, making it one of the most diminished terrestrial communities in North America.

help Midwestern Oak Savanna FAQ

What is a Midwestern Oak Savanna?

The Midwestern Oak Savanna is a unique transitional ecosystem in the United States characterized by a mosaic of prairie grasses and scattered oak trees. It is a fire-maintained habitat, relying on periodic wildfires to prevent the trees from taking over completely.

Why is the Midwestern Oak Savanna endangered?

This ecosystem is highly endangered, with less than 2 percent of its original range remaining intact today. The drastic decline is mostly due to agricultural development and the suppression of natural wildfires.

What types of trees grow in the Midwestern Oak Savanna?

As the name suggests, various species of oak trees are the dominant canopy species in this mosaic ecosystem. These fire-resistant trees survived the natural prairie burns that historically kept the landscape open.

Where can I find the Midwestern Oak Savanna?

Historically, this savanna covered massive stretches of the United States Midwest, particularly in areas bordering tallgrass prairies. Today, the remaining fragments are mostly found in carefully managed nature preserves that use prescribed burns.

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