Monastery Restores Native Prairie and Savannah

Benedictine Women of Madison, Madison, WI

Prior to this reconstruction project, the sisters restored 95-acres of the surrounding property with native prairie vegetation and oak savannah.  This area now contains 60 different native Wisconsin prairie flowers and grasses, which not only adds to the beauty of the landscape, but also prevents erosion.

A nine-acre glacial lake was reclaimed, which protects neighboring properties and Lake Mendota.  They continue to monitor and remove silt collected in detention structures and invasive species.  The hard work of the sisters and their volunteers and interns have created habitat for native plants, birds and animals, and have also provide the opportunity for many people to learn about prairie restoration and restore their own spirits.  The ongoing work of the monastery advances care for the earth as a natural connection to deepening the spiritual life.

Contact: Holy Wisdom Monastery

PO Box 5070

Madison, WI 53705-0070

Phone: 608-836-1631; Fax: 608-836-5586

Website: www.bendictinewomen.org