Although most of the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve has never been plowed, there are some areas that have been identified as old fields. These areas are dominated by non-native species, primarily annual grasses like cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). The Conservation has collected native seed and is currently working on studying the propagation of native species to help us determine what the most successful mix of native seed will be when restoration efforts begin. Staff and volunteers collect seeds from native, shrubs, forbs and grasses and many of the seeds are propagated at regional nurseries, while some are grown at the Conservancy office in Enterprise.

Take a look at a report on seedling establishment following different treatment combinations and one detailing the methods for old field restoration.