Range planting is a great option for cattle producers and landowners looking to restore degraded pastures, improve grazing conditions, and reintroduce native plant species. In this case study, we follow the process of establishing a native tallgrass prairie using the USDA NRCS CPS 550 conservation standard. We will track each stage, from field prep to planting and maintenance.
Follow along as we re-establish a native tallgrass prairie in a 5-acre field over the 2025 growing season.
Range planting (CPS 550) involves the seeding and establishment of native or adapted species to improve forage, enhance wildlife habitat, and restore ecological function. This practice can help cattle producers rebuild native pastures that support both grazing and environmental goals.
Restore native vegetation to match the ecological site description
Improve forage quality and quantity for livestock
Support wildlife habitat with native cover
Reduce soil erosion by stabilizing ground cover
Enhance water quality and restore soil’s water retention capability
At AgSpire, we help producers implement conservation practices on their operations through voluntary, incentive-based programs. In this case study, we will follow the real-time progression, as we work with a producer to plant a field back to native tallgrass prairie in the Upper Great Plains. We will document the step-by-step process – along with any issues that arise and explain how we handled each issue to achieve the producer’s goals.
The field we’re following is a five-acre pasture that had been overrun with smooth brome. The field is a small triangle section of a pasture that the producer wants squared off. The producer would like to convert this small portion of the field back to a native tallgrass prairie that includes trees for wildlife habitat and native flowers for pollinator habitat.
May 2025
We worked with the producer to identify what chemical applications would yield the best results for their specific field, based on the species present and planting timing. For this planting, the producer sprayed 9 oz per acre of Plateau, along with 32 oz per acre of glyphosate. Class Act NG was added to the tank mix as well to assist in the application – which is a combination of a Nonionic surfactant and Ammonium sulfate.
In most cases, glyphosate would be the only chemical needed, but smooth brome is developing a resistance to glyphosate. We added Plateau to help control the cool-season smooth brome. With the combination of chemicals in the tank mix, the producer got a burndown of the field without any residual chemical effects on the native seed being planted.
It is important to note: If this field would have had more broad leaf weeds a chemical such as 2,4-D would have been needed to control the unwanted broad leaf species. But with the use of 2,4-D, there’s a residual chemical left in the soil and that can damage native seeds and prohibit germination, if not planted outside a 10 day plant back period.
May 2025
Like with any planting, early moisture is key for emergence. While started the season dry in the Upper Great Plains, we received good precipitation since the plantings took place. Seed emergence should be strong when we check the field again in a few weeks.
This picture shows the field after it had been sprayed and prepared, and then planted with the native seed mix and tree rows. Starting with a clean field is critical for native seed establishment so that that it isn't competing with unwanted species.
More updates coming soon and throughout the growing season.
Through AgSpire’s producer-focused programs, we provide hands-on support for practices like CPS 550 Range Planting and others - helping you improve forage quality, increase grazing resilience, and find incentive opportunities. Or, sign up below to get started and one of our advisors will reach out to discuss your operation and goals.