- Irene Herlocker (b. 1921). A naturalist and former chemist, she initiated the 10-year effort which saved the Hoosier Prairie in her native Lake County, Indiana. True prairie is natural meadowland never farmed or forested, with many plants and animals which are unique to it. This tiny pocket, 335 acres in the heart of the steel region, is a priceless remnant of the millions of such acres which once covered the midwestern plains. Now a National Natural Landmark, this fragile landscape represents the spirited rescue work of Irene and her late husband Robert, the Hoosier Prairie Committee which she chairs, and countless people and organizations. Bipartisan help came through at every official level, and state and federal funds were obtained for the $1 million purchase price. This tiny oasis amidst big industry is a living example of successful community action on behalf of the environment.
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