Ft. Pierre National Grassland is located within Nebraska National Forest.

An average of 18 inches of annual precipitation allow the Grassland's rolling clay hills to produce productive mixed prairie grasses. Western wheat grass and green needle grass predominate on the flats and ridges, with big and little bluestem, side-oats grama and porcupinegrass being major grasses on the slopes. Blue grama and buffalograss are common grasses, too.

Woody plants are comparatively rare, although occasional Plains cottonwoods dot the drainages. Green ash and willow are less common on dry stream courses, and a few junipers grow on the shallow soils of the rougher hills. Shelterbelts have been planted in several area for wildlife habitat, and adjacent to private ranch bases for aesthetics and winter protection.

• To truly experience Ft. Pierre National Grassland go for a backcountry adventure. Stop by a ranger station in Nebraska National Forest to get trail guides.