By MONETTE TAYLOR | South Central Texas Edition

Dr. Jim Cathey (center), along with Hays County Extension Agent Bryan Davis (right, background), following Cathey’s presentation on developing agritourism sites.  Landowners can capitalize on their unique ideas, or some tried-and-true ventures, to generate profits from their land. -- Staff photo by Taylor

June 22, 2006 - Think “outside of the box” for ways to generate income from the land was the message told attendees of the recent 79th annual Luling Foundation Field Day. Dr. Jim Cathey, Texas Cooperative Extension wildlife specialist, outlined various ways to use the land for ... potentially ... more money.

Urban populations continue to grow, and with that, comes the increase of people looking for interesting and relaxing things to do in the country. Many urbanites have farming/ranching heritages that go back before the fences of the 1932 era, and they are eager to remember what living in the country was like.

While there are many different eco-systems in Texas offering many different animals and plants, many people are looking for a new sport or recreation in the country, away from the city, said Cathey.

According to Cathey, there were 69 million “birders” in the United States, and many of them are found in Texas, along with others who just enjoy observing plants and nature and/or photography.

If you have the right space, Cathey told the group, consider having people out for entertainment, such as wagon rides, camp fire dinners and even cooking lessons. Other outdoor recreation that has been a big hit are the corn mazes that have popped up in many areas, as well as hunting leases, he added.

Obviously, farms and ranches have always been a big favorite for school field trips, kids’ camps and family visits. Along the same lines, Cathey explained that many urban businesses are looking for a good place to hold retreats or management activities, mentioning the Warren Loose Conservatory & Binks Horticulture Center in Beaumont.  This facility offers 10 acres of gardens with winding, paved walkways and attracts many visitors.

Along those same lines, many rural landowners are restoring or converting buildings into bed and breakfasts facilities or lodges for those who want to kick back and relax in the country, watch the wildlife, or shop in antique and specialty stores in the various rural Texas towns.

As Cathey noted, the major draws for urbanites continues to be educational/historical reasons, social activities, just relaxing, nature, weekend outings or camping. Also, he mentioned the fact that the visits allow visitors to meet others outside of their immediate areas.

In closing, Cathey said told the rural landowners that agri-tourism could replace or help supplement income. Plus, an agri-tourism site will help visitors learn to appreciate agriculture and natural resources more.

Finally, the best thing about investing in agri-tourism could be the fact that it could create a way to keep the property in the family for years to come.