Save the Prairie Dogs at John Stiff Memorial Park

For nearly twenty years, a prairie dog colony has lived in the open grasslands at John Stiff Memorial Park in Amarillo. The area where the colony is located is a large natural area where wildlife and people have peacefully coexisted.

Many park visitors enjoy seeing the prairie dogs pop up from their burrows while visiting the park, walking around McDonald Lake, visiting the library, or driving along 45th Avenue.

Prairie dogs are considered a keystone species in prairie ecosystems. Their burrows and grazing behavior support many other animals and contribute to healthy grasslands.

Recently, the City of Amarillo Parks and Recreation Department began exploring options to eradicate the colony. Many residents believe there are better solutions that allow wildlife and people to continue sharing this space. Cities across the western United States manage prairie dog colonies using non-lethal approaches such as

• habitat boundaries to prevent expansion into sensitive areas
• encouraging natural predators
• monitoring colony size
• public education and signage

Sign the Petition

Residents who support humane management of the prairie dog colony can sign the petition below requesting the City of Amarillo pursue alternatives to eradication.