The prairie landscape is part of our cultural history and a significant aspect of our Canadian identity. Many aboriginal people, ranchers and farmers who live in close contact with the prairies have strong emotional ties to the land and its creatures. They feel a responsibility to be good stewards of the land. People who are highly dependent on the land for their livelihood inevitably come to realise the benefit and value of living in harmony with the land. The prairies are also a source of aesthetic pleasure.
Some people find beauty and inspiration there.
It appeals to their eyes, hearts, minds and imagination, and inspires writings and works of art. Just knowing that there is still native prairies provides an intangible, though powerful source of spiritual refreshment. Some people believe that prairie species and the prairie ecosystem have an intrinsic right to exist, as do other species and natural communities. Others value prairie solely because of its usefulness to humans. For people seeking escape from urban life, the prairies provide opportunities for solitude and reflection, a retreat where one can experience the natural world.