Mr Prairie
Dr. Robert F. Betz
1923 - 2007



For nearly half a century Dr. Robert F. Betz traveled the back roads of Illinois in search of prairie remnants to preserve. Today, forty cemetery prairies, 240 acres at Gensburg/Markham Prairie, 80 acres of Wolf Road Prairie, Santa Fe Prairie, Goose Lake, and the conversion of hundreds of acres at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory near Batavia from old farm fields to the 1200 acre Robert F. Betz Prairie can be credited to his vision, determination, and love of the plants and animals that represent the natural heritage of Illinois.

The prairie movement in Illinois was ignited because of his passion and knowledge. Those of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with him are forever enriched by the experience. He led many groups through Wolf Road Prairie, where hundreds of people caught their first glimpse and awareness of prairie.

In this video, shot during one of these tours in August 1998, the magic of his joy and enthusiasm is captured for future generations.

Recently, a graduate student in conservation remarked:

"The video documentary featuring Dr. Betz and the Wolf Road Prairie tour is a moving tribute to a dedicated conservationist. The viewer can sense the enthusiasm and passion that Dr. Betz had for the prairies of Illinois. You can also sense the curiosity of the following tour members, who are constantly asking questions.

The documentary gives the feeling that you are walking beside Dr. Betz as he instructs, interprets, and explains native flora, ecology and natural history.

It is vital that we learn from the experts and pass along the knowledge that has been gained from conservationists such as Dr. Betz. This video provides just such an opportunity."

Dustin Farnsworth
Private Lands Conservationist
Mills and Pottawattamie County, Iowa

This video, by Cynthia P. Gehrie, is exclusively available through Save the Prairie Society for $29.95 (includes shipping and handling)
To order contact Save the Prairie Society at stpsspale@aol.com