Back from the Collapse: American Prairie and the Restoration of Great Plains Wildlife

Back from the Collapse is a book about the grasslands of the Great Plains, which have been underappreciated and overlooked since Euro-American colonization. The book explores the evolutionary history of the ecosystem and the efforts of American Prairie to establish a 3.2-million-acre reserve to support native wildlife.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2023
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Back from the Collapse is a passionate plea for reviving one of North America's most underrated and neglected ecosystems: the expansive grasslands of the Great Plains. This region has earned the moniker "America's Serengeti" due to its awe-inspiring abundance of wildlife, a legacy that dates back centuries. However, since the arrival of Euro-American colonizers, a distressing reality has emerged. At least twenty-four species native to the Great Plains have faced a catastrophic collapse, including the majestic pallid sturgeon and the elusive burrowing owl. This tragic loss extends to the entire spectrum of large mammals, including the iconic bison and the formidable grizzly bear. In response to this immeasurable tragedy, Curtis H. Freese and a group of dedicated conservationists established American Prairie, a nonprofit organization with an unwavering mission: to safeguard and support the region's native wildlife by creating a vast 3.2-million-acre reserve on the plains of eastern Montana. This area is recognized as one of the most pristine and vital habitats for biodiversity conservation in the Great Plains.

In his captivating book, Back from the Collapse, Freese delves into the intricate evolutionary journey of the region's ecosystem, spanning millions of years. He uncovers the gradual transformation from subtropical forests to the icy edge of an ice sheet, culminating in the present-day prairies. He meticulously details the tragic collapse of species and the remarkable efforts of American Prairie to restore the habitat and revive the wildlife. National Geographic has hailed these endeavors as "one of the most ambitious conservation projects in American history."

The book also sheds light on the complex interplay between human activities, climate change, and the decline of the Great Plains ecosystem. Freese offers insights into the historical and cultural significance of the grasslands, highlighting the role they played in shaping the identity and heritage of Native American communities. He emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable land management practices and the importance of preserving the ecological balance to ensure the long-term survival of the region's diverse flora and fauna.

Back from the Collapse serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of our natural world and the critical role we play in preserving it for future generations. It is a call to action that encourages readers to recognize the value of the Great Plains ecosystem and join forces in the collective effort to restore and protect this precious resource. Through his compelling storytelling and scientific expertise, Curtis H. Freese has crafted a masterpiece that inspires hope and encourages us to embrace the power of conservation.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496231321