In 1999, William and Audrey Thomas of Bowling Green, Kentucky, decided it was time to protect the acreage on their family farm and provide for their family's future.

The farm has been in the family since 1840. They submitted an offer to enroll part of the acreage in CRP, and their offer was accepted. Several acres were already in a well-established stand of fescue, but the Thomases decided to establish cool season grasses that were wildlife friendly. Changing grass species required applying a chemical "burn."

In addition, the Thomases decided to plant approximately 10 acres of trees, including oak and ash hardwood trees. "The tree planting not only provides wildlife habitat, but it is an investment for our children and grandchildren," said Audrey Thomas.

William and Audrey Thomas consider the oak and ash trees they planted with CRP cost-share assistance to be an investment for their children and grandchildren.