We took advantage of our welcome rest day by touring the Nature Conservancy's prairie preserves running along side Lac Qui Parle, goose capital of the upper midwest. The Chippewa Preserve and Plover Preserve are great examples of the beauty and diversity found in native prairies. Besides the many lovely wildflowers John was surprised by a Northern Grasshopper mouse which hopped as well as ran! Numerous pelicans were seen on the lake.
Has anyone wondered why we're doing this biking trip? It's not just for the exercise!! The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association has recently established a foundation to fund horticulture research and education in the upper midwest. This ride is to raise awareness of the foundation and to raise funds for it. So far we have raised over $40,000 on our way to the goal of $50,000. If you'd like to support this worthy cause you may send a check or pledge to:
MNLA Foundation
Box 130307
St. Paul, MN 55113
For those of you who pledged $l per mile, you already owe $308! Thanks to everyone who has been so generous!
