A local environmental group is taking steps to manage Ruby Roe Tall Grass Prairie more efficiently.
Rockwood Environmental Action Community Taskforce (REACT) is a volunteer-based, non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Stonewall that launched in 1990. The group’s mission is to help its members and the community to become more environmentally responsible.
REACT manages the remnants of the Ruby Roe Tall Grass Prairie, a globally endangered habitat located next to the hospital. The area is home to more than 60 species of native Manitoba wildflowers, grasses and shrubs. In addition, the tall grass prairie provides habitat to various types of butterflies, songbirds and other wildlife.
The local tall grass prairie is named after Ruby W. Roe (nee Kolstad), who died at the age of 82 in Stonewall in 2009. She made her mark as a teacher and as a community volunteer who helped to initiate REACT. In 2008, the town named the piece of land the Ruby Roe Tall Grass Prairie in her honour.
Looking ahead to the future, REACT has now established a dedicated sub-committee to focus on developing a comprehensive management plan for the tall grass prairie. This plan aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the site’s biodiversity while also encouraging community engagement and use of the tall grass prairie.
“To improve the site’s appearance and accessibility, we’ve begun periodic mowing around the perimeter fencing and better maintaining the paths. This helps make the prairie look more intentional and welcoming, especially for those unfamiliar with the ecological benefits of native grasslands,” said John Morgan, a member of REACT.
“We’ve also been training community volunteers to identify and manage non-native and invasive plant species. These include species such as dandelion, Canada thistle, Kentucky bluegrass, quackgrass, brome, sweet clover, tufted vetch and birdsfoot trefoil. In addition, we’re actively identifying and recording dozens of native prairie wildflowers, grasses and wildlife — some of which are quite rare.”
Recently, the Manitoba Métis Federation joined REACT sub-committee members John Morgan and Dana Beck for a staff and student tour. The event included discussions about prairie ecology, a wildflower seed collection workshop and a shared lunch.
REACT is currently working on educational materials for schools, community members and public service agencies. These materials will highlight the prairie’s ecological importance, history, future potential and the challenges it faces.
“We’re also exploring the possibility of becoming a registered charity. This would allow us to apply for grants and issue tax receipts for donations, helping us secure the funding needed to manage the Ruby Roe site and support future programs and events,” said Jenn Dyson, REACT treasurer.
“Most importantly, we want to hear from the community. The Ruby Roe Tallgrass Prairie offers a unique opportunity for Stonewall and Manitoba to enhance local learning and quality of life, and we welcome ideas on how residents would like to engage with the site.”
The next Ruby Roe sub-committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. And the next REACT group meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 21, starting at 7 p.m. All are welcome to attend. For location details or to join the newsletter list, email info@reactinc.org.
“We’re always welcoming new members and volunteers for events. We’re especially interested in partnering with schools and businesses to expand our programming and outreach,” Dyson said.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the growing community interest in Ruby Roe Prairie and the work REACT is doing. Whether you’re passionate about conservation, education or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the prairie, there’s a place for you in REACT. We look forward to continuing this journey together.”
Throughout the year, REACT also organizes several community events. Coming up next is the much-anticipated Pumpkins in the Park event on Saturday, Nov. 1.
“We invite everyone to bring their jack-o’-lanterns and plain pumpkins to Quarry Park. Drop by anytime between dusk and 8 p.m. to see the pumpkins beautifully lit along the pathways,” Dyson said.
“Hot chocolate will be provided, and all pumpkins will be composted after the event. We encourage bringing a reusable cup for the hot chocolate to reduce our environmental footprint for the event.”
To learn more about REACT, visit www.react.org.
