Why Now Is a Great Time to Invest in Cattle Ranches in Utah

Cattle ranching has been an integral part of life in Utah for generations, and it shows no sign of slowing down any time in the future. Beef production has been a significant economic driver throughout the state for some time, creating jobs and bringing money into the state due to exports.

Many of the ranches in the state are family run affairs, but that doesn’t mean that every investor has to go the same route, as it is possible to hire a ranch management company to manage the day-to-day operations. Cattle ranches in Utah offer numerous benefits for people looking to gain a slice of the lucrative cattle trade.

Economic Benefits

The obvious reason why investors consider Utah is that it is home to a robust economy and a state government committed to developing the sector even more. Cattle are always in demand, and they are a valuable commodity.

Running a ranch will always involve handwork, but cattle can offer an excellent return on investment.  A recent report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reporting that the value per head of cattle was $1,180. If you have a large tract of farmable land, then it is possible to run a very successful business.

As we mentioned above, even if you don’t plan to run the land yourself, it is possible to hire ranch management or lease land to other cattle owners for grazing. There are many ways that your property can help to support the successful cattle trade and, also, create sustainable income for yourself.

Community Spirit

Anybody who has spent any time ranching will know that this is one of the significant benefits of ranching. When you set up a ranch in Utah, you are following in the footsteps of generations of cowboys and their families who have helped to nurture the land, and this would have been impossible without the support of the local community.

Agriculture is such a vital cog in the economic machine of Utah, so it is essential that everyone pulls in the same direction. Obviously, landowners will have to learn to become self-sufficient, but it is always good to know that there is a helping hand down the road.

Protecting the Land

The state government runs many conservation programs which are designed to protect the land and ecosystems they support. Successful grazing programs can actually offer protection against wildfires and enable local grasses and plant life to flourish.

Effective stewardship of the land is very satisfying in itself, but participating in state conservation programs can also lead to considerable tax benefits.

Never A Boring Day Off

After a hard week of work, it is crucial that you find some time to unwind. Luckily, the ranches in Utah are well-placed to take advantage of the wide range of recreational activities available in the state.

The views available from most properties are simply breathtaking, while the landscape is home to some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the country. All of which means there are many activities to enjoy whether you are a hunter, fly-fisher, adventure sports fan, or just a lover of the great outdoors.

What to Look for in Wyoming Hunting Ranches

Wyoming is known as the Cowboy State and is home to some of the most stunning landscape in the world. It is also one of the most sparsely populated states in the US, with wide open spaces and mountainous landscapes the norm in the majority of the state.

Wyoming is home to many national parks, national monuments, and national forests, which provide the perfect habitat for a wide variety of animals. All of these factors make it a dream for outdoorsmen looking for big game. So, if you are looking for a hunting ranch, then you should consider these factors before deciding to buy Wyoming hunting ranches.

Why Wyoming?

Wyoming is a sparsely populated state with a wealth of natural landscapes which attract big game alongside many other animals. The rivers, lakes, and ponds are well stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout, amongst others. Also, the well-watered lands make an ideal habitat for numerous upland birds and waterfowl, with large numbers of sage grouse and wild turkeys never hard to find.

Examples of big game that roam the state include:

• Moose
• Elk
• Pronghorn
• Antelope
• Mule Deer

Location

The location of a property is always a key consideration regardless of your reasons for buying a property. However, if you are looking for recreational properties, there are a few things you need to take into account. You need to find a property which is home to or near a wide variety of terrains. Ideally, you want to be close to mountains and a large body of water, as these varied habitats will attract a variety of big game.

Being located away from large townships is always a good idea, but you will still want easy access to one for when you need to get supplies. It is possible to find secluded spots which will offer the best of both worlds. However, they are usually in high demand, so you will have to move quickly when one comes on the market.

Landowner Tags

A property which carries landowner tags is a much sought-after investment, as these tags mean you don’t have to rely on the luck of the draw. For example, if a property lies in a game management zone, you will gain a specified amount of tags as a form of compensation for participating in conservation efforts. These tags are very in-demand, and the draw is always oversubscribed.

Access

When you start looking for properties you need to look at the right of access to land. Some properties encompass Bureau of Land Management (BLM) zones or are located near National Parks or other public areas. In addition, the property may not hold the water and mineral rights for the land.

Another thing to consider is that some properties participate in Wyoming’s Access Yes! Program, which means pockets of land are open to public access. Therefore, you need to carefully consider the legal implications of these policies when looking at your property. While most of them do offer compensation to landowners, it may not be ideal for all prospective buyers.

Three Potential Uses of Kansas Ranches for Sale

There are many reasons why people opt to invest in land in Kansas. The state has always been famous for its agricultural production, but it also has some outstanding landscapes to be explored and mineral-rich soil. This combination makes it an ideal place to escape to or to start a new venture.

In this post, we will look at three of the main reasons why people consider Kansas as a place to purchase ranch land. Finding ideal Kansas ranches for sale can take a lot of time and effort, but the rewards will make it worth it.

Agricultural Operations

Kansas has long been synonymous with farming and agricultural production. It is home to many different types of grass which make it ideal for cattle operations. Cattle products represent a large proportion of agricultural receipts in the state, so potential investors would be well-advised to look for properties which can hold large heads of cattle.

Crops such as corn, wheat, sorghum, and soybeans are important cash crops, and the state has been nicknamed the Wheat State due to its essential role as the ‘bread basket’ of the USA.

Each area and ranch has its own unique attributes, so it is important to do your due diligence before investing. Some soil and grasses are better for certain operations, so make sure you are clear on what operations are viable.

Recreational Opportunities

Kansas is often described as a flat and featureless state; however, it is in fact graced with many miles of uninterrupted grasslands, alongside lakes and stunning geological features. All of these features provide the ideal conditions for a multitude of recreational opportunities.

Whitetail deer are native to Kansas and roam the land in large numbers. For hunters, you should search for properties which carry private landowner tags, so you don’t have to worry about the luck of the state draws. Kansas is also home to large numbers of wild turkeys and upland birds such as grouse and quail.

In addition to the excellent hunting opportunities, it is possible to enjoy long hikes and horse rides in the unspoiled grasslands, while enjoying the long summer evenings with a camping trip to Clinton Lake State Park. Speaking of water, keen anglers will find the waters within the state boundaries well stocked with large schools of walleye, bass, trout, and catfish to name but a few.

Investment Potential

Kansas has a rich history of ranching and has a wealth of investment opportunities for the buyer who isn’t necessarily looking to spend all their time on the property. Recent reports in the state have concluded that croplands still represent a sound investment, and this is unlikely to change any time soon.

If you are new to the ranching game, it is possible to hire a ranch management team to look after the day to day operations so you can focus on other projects. The resiliency of croplands means that it should generate a solid return on investment and be a worthwhile addition to your property portfolio.

Four Reasons Why You Should Buy Nebraska Ranches

Nebraska offers many great opportunities for savvy investors looking to expand their property portfolio or start a new family ranch operation. Throughout the state, there are parcels of land varying in size and on-site infrastructure. This variety means you may be spoiled for choice.

Which site will be best depends on whether you are looking for a turnkey operation or more of a clean slate. There are many reasons why you should buy Nebraska ranches, and we will outline a few of these below.

Abundant Water Sources

Nebraska has vast supplies of water both above and underground, which has many advantages for landowners. If you are planning to run an agricultural operation, the well-watered land will be integral to a successful operation. Look for a property which has a variety of tanks, ponds, or wells.

Having a lot of water on site will also attract wildlife and big game which is particularly attractive to lovers of the outdoors. If you have a large amount of wildlife roaming your property, then you may be able to participate in state conservation programs, which can attract some tax benefits.

A property which comes with on-site water rights is particularly attractive as it offers flexibility to irrigate and make any improvements that will be needed on the property. However, it is important to be clear on how far the water rights stretch in terms of public access, as this can potentially be a deal breaker.

Low Utility Costs

This one is a good thing to consider if you are planning to move the family out to the new ranch land. Throughout the state the gas and electric costs are very reasonable, which will make running a home much cheaper, freeing up cash to put into other on-site improvements.

Investment Potential

Owning land, especially productive or well-placed land is always going to be a sound investment. Now is an excellent time to buy ranches in Nebraska as the prices represent excellent value. Even if you are not planning to run the property as a working ranch, there are ways you can add value to the property.

Depending on the location and the zoning regulations, you can add lodging so you can run retreats or hunting trips. There are many ways to make the land work for and future generations of your family.

Other Considerations 

Buying ranch land can be a very complicated process, so it usually pays to use a broker familiar with the local properties and regulations.  Zoning laws, right of access, mineral and water rights, and existing infrastructure and onsite improvements can all have a significant effect on the value of the property – both now and in the future.

When it comes to the right of access to the property, you need to be clear on the various regulations and where your property lies in relation to public lands such as BLM or national parks. The location can create some business opportunities if your property carries landowner tags or offers excellent access to the local area.

Four Key Considerations for Investors Looking to Buy Montana Ranches for Sale

When you start looking to buy Montana ranches for sale, there are numerous considerations which you will need to take into account. While investing in property is usually an excellent move, there are risks involved. There are also many other factors which can affect the value of the land now and in the future.

Therefore, it is vital that you do your due diligence and conduct a thorough analysis of the available options before signing on the dotted line. In this article, we will take a quick look at some of the factors you need to think about.

Call in the Experts

If you are a first-time buyer or unfamiliar with the area, it makes perfect sense to hire a reputable ranch broker to help with your initial inquiries. For starters, you will need to know about the pros and cons of purchasing a ranch in a specific area, and also what state regulations you need to be aware of. It can be overwhelming if you are new to the game, so take the time to find a broker who has a wealth of firsthand experience in the Montana property market.

Have a Clear Idea of What You Want the Ranch for

This is probably one of the simplest but best bits of advice we can give prospective buyers. The last thing you want to do is buy a property which is not fit for purpose.

If you are planning to carry livestock, you need to make sure you have the capacity to make it a viable option. You will need ample space for grazing rotations, which will be difficult if you have too many or too little heads of cattle. Therefore, it is imperative that you have a clear idea of what the property can realistically carry and what improvements may be needed.

Access to Water

Montana is home to many rivers, creeks, and lakes of which some may fall within your property’s borders. If this is the case, it is essential that you have an intimate knowledge of the rights to access. Finding out these details should be part of your due diligence as they can have a significant impact on the value of the land.

If any rivers or creeks are open to the public, then this could create problems with managing your property’s borders and could have a detrimental effect on your overall enjoyment of the area. On the other hand, if the body of water is classed as part of your private property, then this will add considerable value to the property.

Hunting Regulations

Many big game species roam throughout the state, and there is a high likelihood that you will see large numbers on your property during the year. However, just because they are on your property doesn’t mean you have unfettered access.

There are numerous regulations in place regarding hunting in Montana. There are seven hunting districts, which are divided into multiple regions based on specific big game species. Throughout the state, there are strict regulations regarding quotas, time frames for hunting, and type of weapons.

Montana runs a landowner preference and sponsor program making it easier to get landowner tags, just as long as you own 160 deeds acres for mule deer and 640 acres for elk. This is a desirable proposition for outdoorsmen.

Finding the Right Balance: Three Reasons to Buy New Mexico Ranches Near Santa Fe

The Land of Enchantment is famed for its picturesque landscapes, and it makes the perfect escape for folks looking for a retreat from the city. Buyers looking for their first ranch property, you will probably want to strike a balance between ranch life with the creature comforts of city living. If this sounds like you, then the area around the state capital of Santa Fe is the perfect place for you.

It would be impossible to detail all the reasons why New Mexico is an ideal location to purchase a ranch. However, we have put together three key reasons why you should buy New Mexico ranches near Santa Fe.

Excellent Access To All The Amenities Of A Big City

Santa Fe is a populous city, but nowhere near the size of a New York or Chicago. The city itself offers all a modern family could possibly need from shopping to restaurants. It is also a great place if you have any art lovers in your ranks, with its many museums and galleries.

Most importantly it is well served by an excellent road system, making it easy to get in and out. The area to the east of Santa Fe is home to some spectacular terrain and is an excellent place to look for ranch properties, which will give you the best of both worlds. There are several properties located only an hour or two drive away, ideal for anyone looking to commute or do business in the city.

Never Far Away From An Amazing View

When most people think about New Mexico, they think of a rugged land dotted with magical canyons. Well, there are several properties currently on the market that offer ‘off the porch” access to these idyllic natural landmarks.

The Canadian River Canyon is an impressive area close to the Kiowa National Grasslands. It is not as famous as some of the more high profile sites elsewhere in the state, but it still offers beautiful views and some outstanding recreation. The Kiowa National Grasslands provide miles and miles of uninterrupted prairie lands which will leave you breathless and overwhelmed by a sense of freedom.

Besides these two beautiful sites, you should definitely spend some time in the Santa Fe and Carson National Forests. Ii would be impossible to get bored in this part of the world.

World Class Recreation

As mentioned above, the area around Santa Fe is home to some stunning landscape, which makes it a perfect place to explore on foot or on horseback. Long hikes, off-road bike rides, and rock climbing are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed on or near ranch properties in the area.

The grasslands and forests alongside the river canyons are prime habitats for a wide variety of flora and fauna. If you are a keen sportsman, then there are many possibilities regarding hunting tags for various big game such as elk, pronghorn, and mule deer. On the other hand, if you are not an active hunter, it is possible to get involved with local conservation initiatives to help nurture the land.