Washita Battlefield National Historic Site - DEGRADED GRASSLAND

The land that makes up Washita Battlefield National Historic Site had been in private hands since the turn of the last century. As is typical for this part of the country the land was used for grazing and agriculture. In fact, the battlefield is only a very small part of a highly manipulated landscape that extends throughout the great plains. As such, believing that a pristine mixed-grass prairie can be recreated on a 320 acre piece of land surrounded by working farms is unrealistic. The best that can be hoped for is a parcel of grassland dominated by native plants and not overrun by exotic species. Through the sustained efforts of restorationists and technicians this is a goal that could one day be achieved at Washita Battlefield.