Planning key for any niche market success; Nature tourism sites gaining popularity

By LORI COPE | East Texas Edition

August 22, 2002 -- "Planning is the least fun, but it increases your chances of success," said Dr. Greg Clary, Extension economist, during the recent Nature Tourism Development Seminar. "Planning helps you avoid mistakes because you think things through - before you spend a lot of money."

The recent seminar in Sulphur Springs attracted about 50 people who have ideas about starting a nature tourism business, or already have one in operation. Such businesses include nature trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and bird watching, bed-and-breakfasts, hunting cabins and leases, and "pick-your-own" fruit and vegetable farms.

Many people have ideas for these type operations, but many also ponder: "Where do I start?"

"As an ag person or landowner, you may think you don't know how to develop one of these operations, but there are folks out there who can help you with that," noted Sheri Dragoo, marketing specialist with Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA).

Cliff Todd, a TDA rural and agribusiness development specialist, offered several information resources, such as TDA, Texas Cooperative Extension, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and Chambers of Commerce.

"There are lots of 'agency' people to help you be successful and answer your questions," added Clary.

When it comes to planning, the economist said to involve many people within the community. Community leaders and businesspeople can provide information and resources, and most are willing to help because a new business that draws money-spending people to the town is an asset.

Six points on the "road map" to a successful nature tourism business were highlighted by Clary. "We can call it a road map because we're setting out on an adventure."

First of all, determining the destination is key. "You need to decide where you want to go before you decide when and how to get there. In business terms, these are goals and objectives."

Of the goals, people should look at three: personal, business, and family.

Of the personal goals, consider the things that are motivating you to take on the new business, such as being self-employed, and what the feasibility will be of that decision. Clary asked, "What do you want your standard-of-living to be? Can you live on more, or less, income?"

Business goals simply boil down to "what do you expect?" from the adventure, such as the time period before actual income is derived from the developing business.

Family goals are very important, as well, according to Clary. "Family conflicts can cause the business to fail" even if they are not directly involved in the business. Time and money dedicated to the adventure can cause stress. "It is very important to get the family around the table and talk about this," he added.

Secondly, Clary said to consider all you have to work with. "Get a notebook with dividers; and each section will be a different section of your business plan. ... A business plan is key when financing has to be obtained." In the notebook, list the physical things already on hand, such as land, tractor, ponds, capital, etc.; and the resources you have such as education, experience, family members, etc.

The third stop on the road map is to consider "alternatives." Ideally, following the route that takes "the business from Point A to the point of a thriving business" is best; but what would be other things to develop into the business?

"Keeping track along the way" was Clary's fourth point. "Ag people are the hardest to get to focus on financial information, ... but you've got to buckle down and develop financial statements. It's a good way for your business to talk to you as a manager."

Fifth on the road map is to have contingency plans. "Find out the necessary information; do your homework," Clary stressed. You don't want to be out there digging a catfish pond and the federal guys come out there and tell you the land is a protected wetlands, he offered as an example.

Finally, it is key to "walk softly in your neighborhood," Clary said. "If you are developing a nature tourism business on your land, what will your neighbors think" about the increased traffic, noise, and decreased privacy? "You need to consult your neighbors" before the "quaint area" is turned into a thriving public attraction.

For more information on developing a nature tourism business, contact Clary at 903-834-6191, e-mail g-clary@tamu.edu; or Cliff Todd at 903-939-3999, e-mail cliff.todd@agr.state.tx.us.