Identifying Potential Wildlife Management Properties

What to look for in a listing. When reviewing rural land listings, pay attention to:

• • • Descriptions that mention “wildlife habitat,” “conservation potential,” “native grasses,” “hunting opportunities,” or specific wildlife species.
    • Larger acreage tracts in more rural settings, as these are often better suited for implementing wildlife management practices.
    • Properties with existing natural features like diverse vegetation, water sources (ponds, creeks), and varied topography that can be enhanced for wildlife.
    • Listings that explicitly state the property currently has a “wildlife management tax valuation” – this is a strong indicator of its suitability.
    • Don’t hesitate to ask sellers or their agents about the history of land use and any existing wildlife management practices.

   

Initiating the Conversation

How to introduce the topic of Wildlife Management Valuation to your clients. When discussing rural land options with potential buyers, consider these approaches:

• • • “What are your long-term goals for this property? Are you interested in simply owning acreage, or do you have any interest in conservation or recreational activities like hunting or wildlife viewing?”
    • “Beyond the beauty of the land itself, one of the significant benefits of owning rural property in Texas can be the potential for lower property taxes through special use valuations. Are you familiar with these?”
    • “Many of our clients who are passionate about wildlife and land stewardship have found Wildlife Management Valuation to be a great way to both manage their property responsibly and potentially reduce their tax burden. Is this something you’d be interested in learning more about?”
    • If a property seems particularly well-suited for wildlife, you can proactively say, “This property has the characteristics that could make it a strong candidate for Wildlife Management Valuation, which offers potential tax savings while benefiting native wildlife.”

   

Understanding the Wildlife Management Plan (Brief Overview)

 

Explain that a plan is required and outline the seven categories of approved activities. To qualify for Wildlife Management Valuation, landowners must develop and implement a Wildlife Management Plan. Think of this as a customized strategy for managing the property to benefit native wildlife. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department recognizes seven broad categories of activities that can be included in this plan:

1. 1. Habitat Control: Managing vegetation to create diverse and healthy habitats.
   2. Erosion Control: Implementing practices to protect soil and water resources.
   3. Predator Control: Managing non-native or overabundant predators.
   4. Providing Supplemental Water: Ensuring reliable water sources for wildlife.
   5. Providing Supplemental Food: Enhancing food availability for target species.
   6. Providing Shelter: Creating or improving cover and nesting sites.
   7. Making Census Counts: Monitoring wildlife populations to track the success of management efforts. Assure your clients that they don’t need to be experts to create such a plan; professional assistance is readily available.

 

Connecting Clients with Expert Resources (Like Plateau Land & Wildlife)

Position yourself as a facilitator and introduce the value of partnering with specialists. Navigating the requirements for Wildlife Management Valuation, including developing a comprehensive and compliant plan, can seem complex. That’s where experts like Plateau Land & Wildlife come in. We specialize in working with landowners to:

• • Assess the property’s potential for wildlife management.
  • Develop customized Wildlife Management Plans tailored to their land and goals.
  • Ensure the plan meets all the criteria set by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and local appraisal districts.
  • Provide ongoing guidance and support for implementing the plan. By connecting your clients with our expertise, you’re providing them with a valuable resource that can simplify the process, maximize their potential tax savings, and ensure they have a successful transition to wildlife management. We can work as a seamless partner to help your clients achieve their land ownership and conservation goals.

Schedule your free consultation today to learn if your client’s land qualifies for a wildlife exemption or if you need addtional help with identifying potential Wildlife Management properties.