By Scout Nelson
Minot State University (MSU) is preparing to plant red clover as a cover crop at the Plum River Native Prairie project site, located at the former Erik Ramstad Middle School. The planting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 13, weather permitting.
This project brings together environmental protection, Indigenous wisdom, and student research. The goal is to restore native prairie at the site while offering educational and cultural value to the community.
Red clover is chosen for its many benefits. It helps improve soil quality and adds nitrogen, which supports future plant growth. It also holds cultural and healing importance in Indigenous traditions. The suggestion to use red clover came from Ruth De La Cruz of Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College. She is mentoring Patrick Baker, an environmental chemistry student at MSU, through the CIRCLES Alliance.
Many partners support this phase of the project:
- Souris Basin Planning Council supports Baker’s daily work.
- Ward County Soil Conservation District gives technical and educational help.
- USDA’s Andrea (AJ) Limberger offers expert advice.
- NDSU Extension Office members Chandler Gruener and Emily How help with soil testing and education.
- Shon Naslund (Viterra) and Shane Naslund (Nufarm) provide planting tools and farming knowledge.
- Audubon Great Plains and Minot Public Schools continue to support the prairie project.
The native prairie planting is planned for fall 2025, before the ground freezes. The red clover now being planted will prepare the soil and lay the foundation for this future step.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-tlillico
Categories: North Dakota, Education, Weather