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Pipestone National Monument A view of Pipestone Creek
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Pipestone National Monument
Lichens
Lichen growth on quartzite rock

NPS

Lichen growth on quartzite rock

Lichens are an important part of the prairie ecosystem at Pipestone National Monument. These plant/fungi organisms slowly break down rocks to mineral components to create a primitive soil over long periods of time.

It takes a century for Lichens to spread an inch or less on rocks.

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A quarry site with quartzite rubble pile

Did You Know?
Archeological evidence indicates that the quarrying of pipestone has occurred for 3,000 years at Pipestone National Monument. The important traditions of pipestone quarrying and pipemaking continue today.
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Last Updated: May 24, 2011 at 13:22 MST