In 2001, a small group of ordinary residents set a goal to establish one of the largest wildlife reserves ever created. Thus began the work of American Prairie, a Bozeman-based organization with impacts that extend far beyond the Gallatin Valley. Founder Sean Gerrity will discuss the work of restoring the American prairie in Montana during a talk on his book, “Wild on Purpose: The American Prairie Story and the Art of Thinking Bigger.” The event will be held on May 20 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Bozeman Public Library Community Room.

“We’re lucky to live in a community with residents who dream big and accomplish things that have lasting impacts on our community and state,” said Ben Nielsen, Bozeman Public Library’s Head of Adult Programming. “Such is the story of Sean Gerrity and American Prairie. We hope all can join us in learning more about the obstacles and achievements that have led to conserving hundreds of thousands of acres of prairie land in Montana.”

American Prairie is a conservation organization dedicated to restoring and preserving the temperate grassland ecosystem in north central Montana, one of the most endangered biomes on the planet. Since its founding, they have secured over 603,000 acres and have the ultimate goal of connecting 3.2 million acres for people and wildlife to enjoy.

Gerrity is a National Geographic Explorer who has served on multiple boards focused on global conservation. He was raised in Great Falls, Montana, and now resides in Bozeman.

More information on this event can be found at bozemanlibrary.org.