The Compass Plant: A Prairie Icon Facing Threats and Finding Salvation in Regenerative Agriculture

The Great Plains of North America have long been adorned with a diverse array of native prairie plants. Each playing a crucial role in the delicate ecosystem that sustains countless species of wildlife. 

Among these prairie gems stands one of our favorites, the compass plant (Silphium laciniatum). I wrote briefly about this plant last year, but this iconic species is worthy of more detail. In this blog post, I will explore the rich history and importance of the compass plant in native prairies, the threats it faces due to modern agricultural practices like tilling, and how regenerative agriculture can be the salvation of this plant and its neighbors.

History and the Compass Plant's Importance in Native Prairies

The compass plant has deep historical significance, dating back centuries. Its name is derived from the belief that its leaves align in a north-south direction, providing a crude compass for travelers. The plant's stature can reach up to 12 feet, making it one of the tallest prairie plants and an essential part of the prairie's vertical structure.

The compass plant is known for its deep taproot, sometimes extending over 15 feet into the soil! This allows it to access moisture and minerals from deep underground, making it highly drought resistant. 

Its long, lance-shaped leaves minimize water loss through transpiration, further enhancing its ability to thrive in the harsh prairie environment. Additionally, the compass plant provides food and habitat for a variety of insects, birds and small mammals, contributing to the biodiversity of the prairie ecosystem.

Threats to the Compass Plant: Tilling and Agricultural Expansion

While the compass plant has evolved to withstand natural challenges, it faces unprecedented threats due to human activities, particularly the modern agricultural practice of tilling. The advent of industrial agriculture and the expansion of farmlands have led to widespread tilling and monoculture farming, which disrupt the delicate balance of native prairies.

Tilling involves turning over the soil to prepare it for planting, which destroys the delicate root systems of native plants like the compass plant. Since the compass plant takes years to establish, a single pass with a plow can destroy decades of stand development. As a result, the prairie's natural biodiversity is diminished, and native species struggle to compete against invasive plants and grasses. 

Salvation through Regenerative Agriculture

Fortunately, the sustainable and ecologically sound farming practices involved with regenerative agriculture are gaining momentum as a solution to the challenges faced by the compass plant and other native prairie species. Regenerative agriculture holistically focuses on enhancing soil health, restoring biodiversity, and promoting ecosystem resilience.

Avoiding tilling is a key practice of regenerative agriculture. By avoiding the disruption of the soil through tilling, native prairie plants like the compass plant can thrive without their root systems being destroyed. No-till farming also reduces erosion and helps retain soil moisture, making it a win-win for both farmers and the environment. 

Interestingly, the picture associated with this post is taken in our pig pasture. Right where the pigs were the year prior. Pigs do create some soil disturbance when they move through an area with their rooting activities. Contrary to the destruction caused by tilling for crops, the pattern and depth of their soil disturbance actually enhances the health of the compass plant and other perennials.

What this means for the Compass Plant

The compass plant, with its historical significance and importance in native prairies, faces mounting challenges due to modern agricultural practices like tilling and monoculture farming. However, through the adoption of regenerative agriculture, there is hope. 

By prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance, regenerative agriculture can create a more sustainable future for both farmers and the environment. 

Through collective efforts, between the farmers and educated, caring consumers, we can ensure that the compass plant continues to thrive. Enriching the prairie landscape for generations to come.

Thank you for your help!