This 20-acre ecosystem is home to many unique native prairie plants, including the blazing star. The end of July into early August marks the peak bloom time of this spectacular purple prairie flower and many other flowers.
It’s definitely an excellent time of year to make a visit to the Jennings Environmental Education Center.
Adjacent to Moraine State Park, Jennings encompasses 300 total acres, three-quarters of which is covered by dense forest.
There are more than five miles of well-maintained and marked trails that run on either side of Route 528. Visitors can follow the trails and enjoy an easy hike that will take them through forest, stream, prairie, and wetland habitats. A variety of plants and animals are easily spotted along the trails.
225 native plant species were identified at the prairie habitat of Jennings in 1964. One of the most well-known of these is the Blazing Star, which can grow up to four feet high and features spectacular purple flower blooms on its stalk from top to bottom.
In addition to the Blazing Star, the prairie is also home to the endangered massasauga rattlesnake, a small shy reptile. Only 4 of 19 historic populations of this snake still exist in PA, making it a critically imperiled endangered species.
Visit the Jennings Environmental Education Center webpage for more information on other programs and upcoming events and activities.
(Photo: Jennings prairie bloom featuring the Blazing Star.)
[Posted: June 24, 2020] PA Environment Digest
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