In spite of being described as a "jewel, a national treasure," America's Northern Plains grasslands are being threatened by increasing pressures of agriculture. The area's subtle beauty and ecological diversity and significance have not prevented large tracts of prairie from being cultivated for crops necessary to feed the nation. The key is finding the delicate balance between protecting what remains of original grasslands to preserve the ecological benefits they provide for wildlife, as well as clean air and water, and growing the crops that produce food for people all around the world.