“What kind of world do we want, and what will nature require of us?”
Prairie Prophecy explores the promise of perennial, nature-based agriculture as a response to climate change, soil loss, and the future of food. Drawing on decades of research from The Land Institute, the film offers a thoughtful, hopeful look at how working with nature may help sustain both people and the planet.
Experience the Film
A Different Way Forward
Guided by the ideas of scientist-farmer Wes Jackson and the work of The Land Institute, the film explores a revolutionary approach to agriculture - one rooted in resilience, stewardship, and the wisdom of natural systems.
Through archival material, field research, and evocative prairie imagery, the story connects science, history, and lived experience to ask a timely question:
Can farming work in harmony with the ecosystems it depends on?
What People are Saying
“A visually striking film that pairs masterful storytelling with Wes Jackson’s visionary ideas - offering an engaging look at the past and future of agriculture.” -VALERIE M.B. VANDERSLUIS, KTWU
“Beautifully filmed and deeply prescient, Prairie Prophecy is essential viewing, offering both clarity and hope in a time of profound change.”
- DAHR JAMAIL, Author, The End of Ice: Bearing Witness & Finding Meaning in the Path of Climate Disruption
“In 45 years of work, I’ve never been more proud to be part of a project. It is outstanding.” - SCOTT JOLLY, sjps.tv
Check Out Our Short Film!
With just a 12-minute run-time, Beer Saves The World! follows the story of Kernza®, the world’s first trademarked perennial grain and the advocates who grow it, research it, and the brave individuals who make beer with it! Spearheaded by environmental leaders like Patagonia, the grain has moved from concept to consumer proving that perennial plants that heal the soil can also help wash down a plate of nachos.
A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR
The first time I met Wes Jackson, I realized I wasn’t just meeting a scientist - I was meeting a storyteller. He connects science and meaning in a way that makes even the most complex ideas feel grounded and urgent.
Prairie Prophecy became a way to explore not just his ideas, but the people and landscapes shaping a different future.
My hope is that the film opens a door - inviting viewers to consider not just what’s at stake, but what might still be possible.
Michael “MJ” Johnson, Director / Executive Producer
From Film to Field
Learn About Our Partners
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The Land Institute
Pioneering perennial agriculture and natural systems farmingNew Perennials Project
Exploring the cultural and philosophical dimensions of sustainability
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Forever Green Initiative (University of Minnesota)
Developing and scaling perennial crops like Kernza®Tallgrass Prairie Center (UNI)
Restoring prairie ecosystems within agricultural landscapes
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Bread and Butter Farm
Regenerative community farming and educationA-Frame Farm
Working example of ecological farming in practiceFerrell Ranch
Ranch-based land stewardship and regenerative practices
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Patagonia Provisions
Scaling sustainable ingredients through global distributionPerennial Pantry
Bringing perennial grains into everyday foodsSustain-a-Grain
Building supply chains for regenerative grains
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Beth Dooley’s Kitchen / Writing
Connecting food, place, and cultureArizona Wilderness Brewing
Local sourcing and regenerative ingredients in brewingBang Brewing
Craft brewing with sustainability at its core
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UNI Local Food Program
Strengthening regional food economies
“If your life’s work can be accomplished in your lifetime,
you’re not thinking big enough.”
WES JACKSON
