Transitioning a ridge top conventional corn and soybean field into a prairie planting of native forbs and grasses has corrected some major hillside erosion issues. We planted the field early one morning in mid March during a frost/thaw time which is ideal for a successful germination of the seed and rapid growth cycle that gets a jump on the ever present weeds. The prairie grew quickly beyond our imagination and has flourished ever since. Warm season mowing of the outside parameter and internal fire block lanes along with annual prescribed burns maintain the prairie in top form. We now enjoy 10 acres of lush natural vegetation which is the home to a multitude of wildlife especially the farm bees and other insects.