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Stars were still bright against the early morn blackness...walkin’ back 
to the house. I’d just sent the 18-wheeler loaded with combine; a 1-ton 
service truck loaded with tools and red farm diesel out onto the dark 
highway. The men headed east off the plateau towards a lonesome tall 
grass refuge. The coastal prairie is ripe with seed this time of the year.  
Turning off lights in the barn, I could hear gears shifting as the men, one 
of ‘em my son, faded into the dark distance. My mind and body stopped 
for a rare moment...becoming a pure silence. I looked up to reflect upon 
the work...and my place in it all.
 
Gathered from land that has never been plowed. The same grasses 
walked upon by the people before us. These seeds know exactly how 
to live right here with no extra care. They have already seen the worst 
floods, freezes and drouth.
Wildlife survival of numerous 
species, such as the endangered 
Attwater Prairie Chicken, depends 
on restoring and preserving 
healthy, diverse native habitats. 
From urban “pocket-prairie 
gardens” to a 1,000- acre rice 
field restoration, all of us play 
increasingly important roles. 
Create a sustainable future for the 
next generation to inherit.
HARVESTING FOR
Coastal Prairie Restoration

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