Educators

The Prairie Pothole Region Case Study

Big or small? Which prairie wetlands are better for biodiversity?

Grade level: Grade 10 and up

The Prairie Pothole Region, which covers the northern extent of the largest expanse of grasslands in the world, provides the primary breeding range for approximately half of North America’s breeding ducks as well as many wetland-dependent birds and other wildlife species. Meanwhile, rich prairie soils mean agriculture is an important way of life on the Prairies and the pressure to drain wetlands to make room for production and development remains. As a result, more than 10,000 hectares of pothole wetlands continue to be lost each year in the Canadian prairies.

Through this case study students will explore whether conserving one large or several small wetlands will support the most prairie biodiversity. Students will learn about prairie ecosystems and the importance of wetlands and biodiversity while challenging themselves to research and propose a conservation plan.

Prairie Pothole Region Case Study – Teaching Guide

Prairie Pothole Region Case Study – Student Workbook