Savanna

Midwest oak savannas form
a transition between the
Great Plains and eastern forests.

Savannas provide essential habitat for many plant and animal species. Managed grazing with up to 12 cattle per acre, for two to three days per month can reduce the shrub layer in oak savanna. It can also provide nutritional grazing and shade for cattle. 

Midwest oak savannas form a transition between the Great Plains and eastern forests. The bur oak is the dominant species in northern oak savannas. In the south, there are more black oak or chinkapin oak.

This upland landscape offers wide spaced, open grown trees. Under the trees is an herbaceous, prairie-like understory. The understory can be a mix of grasses, perennials, and small trees or shrubs. 

The savanna is an ideal inspiration for large, sunny urban and suburban landscapes.