Prairie D’Ane seeks volunteers for Clean Up Day at the Prairie

Several trails that were under construction at Prairie D’Ane were damaged during recent flooding. Volunteers are needed to fix the damage in order to open the trails to visitors. Nevada County Depot Museum

PRESCOTT – The Nevada County Depot Museum is seeking volunteers for a clean-up day at Prairie D’Ane, scheduled for Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31. Projects include cleaning up flood-damaged trails and foot bridges. Tools will be provided but those who prefer to bring their own are encouraged to do so and volunteers are invited to camp on the Prairie Friday night. For details, call 870-887-5821 or email TheDepotMuseum@gmail.com.

Prairie D’Ane Battlefield is a National Landmark site located at 2243 Highway 19 in Prescott, Arkansas. In April 1864 Federal and Confederate forces battled in skirmishes that lasted 4 days. Today, the site is recognized not only for its history, but for its rich ecological environment and natural heritage. Over the past 5 years, The Depot Museum, which manages the site, has created walking trails, interpretive signage, and other features that make the site easy to explore.

“We really want visitors to enjoy the beauty of this natural prairie and learn its history,” said Depot Board President, Paul Ridgell, “This site is a treasure and we want everyone to enjoy it.”

Recent flooding has created damage to some of the trails and bridges that cross the site. To address the problem The Depot is asking for volunteers to assist in cleaning the damaged areas, repairing trails, and removing damaged bridges in preparation for more detailed reconstruction. Anyone who would like to help is invited. Those who are able to bring their own tools are welcome to bring any of the following: cordless power drills, string trimmers, hammers, crowbars, buckets, etc. Professionals who volunteer their services can receive a tax write-off for the value of their work.

“Many people don’t realize that the values of using the equipment they bring or their professional services are considered a tax-deductible donation,” said Ridgell, “It’s a great way to serve the community and still receive a great benefit. It’s win-win.”

Volunteer Day is scheduled all day on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31 at Prairie D’Ane Battlefield, 2243 Highway 19, just off of I30 exit 46 in historic Prescott, Arkansas. The Prairie is preserved by the Nevada County Depot Museum, a 501(c)3 non-profit humanities organization dedicated to preserving and sharing regional history. Can’t volunteer but would still like to contribute? Make a donation today at Tinyurl.com/DepotDonate .

Long before the 1864 battle for which the site is known, Prairie D’Ane was used as a hunting ground by the Caddo. Today, it remains an important natural heritage site retaining much of its original plant and animal life. Nevada County Depot Museum