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American Grasslands

Curricular Area: Social Studies/History, Science

Grade Level: 4-8

Teacher Guide:
Not available

Record Rights: Recording/duplication allowed as long as IPTV broadcasts the series.

Series Length:
6 programs

Program Length:
10 minutes


American Grasslands documents the great diversity in one of North America's most ecologically significant and threatened biomes and highlights the various types of grasslands, from the famed tallgrass prairie to lesser known desert and coastal grasslands.


Broadcast dates/times to be determined


101. North American Grasslands
This program provides an overview of the various grasslands in the continent and examines distinct habitats such as California, desert, and intermountain grasslands.

102. Tallgrass Prairie
The so-called "true prairie," tallgrass prairie, was once the most dramatic North American grassland, reaching up to 12 feet in height. Today this habitat covers only 1% of its former range.

103. Mixed Prairie
A combination of both short and tallgrass prairie, mixed prairie contains more plant species than any other prairie type.

104. Shortgrass Prairie
Grazing by large ungulates such as buffalo and pronghorn, and small animals like prairie dogs, historically maintained these grasslands.

105. Remnant Grasslands
Many people are surprised to discover that remnant grasslands can be found along the Gulf Coast in Texas and Louisiana and within the Everglades.

106. Grasslands Conservation
Public and private environmental groups are working together to save North America's relict grasslands and restore them to their original condition through prescribed burning and the reintroduction of native species.


Previous Broadcasts:

Programs #101 - 106
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
4:00 - 5:00 a.m.

Programs #101 - 106
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
2:00 - 3:00 a.m.

Programs #101 - 106
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
4:00 - 5:00 a.m.

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