Gensburg Markham Prairie
About Gensburg Markham Prairie
A National Natural Landmark, this 167-acre preserve is a mosaic of remnant prairie communities. The high quality wetlands and prairies sit on the former lake plain of glacial Lake Chicago which resulted in a diversity of clay and sand soil deposited by the receding lake. The site includes black soil tallgrass prairie, uncommon now in Illinois, its rich soil having been plowed for agriculture. Influenced by diverse substrate and water conditions, an expansive palette of plant species grow in the site’s diverse habitats.
More to Explore in Cook County, IL
Volunteer with Openlands
Connecting people to nature where they live.
As innovative protectors and stewards of the land since 1963, Openlands exists to create access to nature for all. Through local alliances, forward vision, and persistent action, Openlands connects and leads conservation work, serving as a guiding voice for communities, organizations, and more effective policy in northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region.
