Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We understand that navigating land management and Texas property tax valuations can be a complex process. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.

Tax Valuation (1-d-1 & Ag)

Q: What is the difference between 1-d (Ag) and 1-d-1 (Wildlife) tax valuation?

The 1-d (Ag) valuation is for properties actively used for agriculture, such as livestock, hay, or timber. The 1-d-1 (Wildlife) valuation is for properties that are actively managed to support native wildlife populations. To get a wildlife valuation, your land must first be qualified for Ag for at least five years (unless you use our University Research service).

Q: I'm not in Ag. What is the easiest way to get my property taxes lowered?

This is our most common question. You have two paths:

1. The Traditional Path: Qualify for 1-d Ag (e.g., with a grazing or beekeeping plan) and maintain it for five years.

2. The Direct Path: Our Ecological Laboratory (University Research) service. If you have 25+ acres, we may be able to partner you with a university to host research on your land, which can allow you to bypass the 5-year Ag requirement and transition directly to a 1-d-1 valuation. Learn more here ~>

Q: How many acres do I need to qualify for a Wildlife Valuation?

This is entirely dependent on your County Appraisal District (CAD). Each county sets its own minimum acreage, which can range from 10 acres to over 100. As part of our service, we work directly with your CAD to confirm all local requirements.

Q: What is the difference between a "5-Year Plan" and an "Annual Report"?

This is a critical distinction.

• The 5-Year Plan is the one-time, upfront document you file with the county to get your property into wildlife valuation.

• The Annual Report is the yearly, ongoing compliance document you must file to keep your wildlife valuation. We offer both services. Learn more here ~>

Q: Do I really have to do all 7 wildlife management activities?

No. You are only required to perform at least three of the seven qualifying activities each year. We help you choose the three activities (e.g., Providing Shelter [bird boxes], Supplemental Water, and Invasive Species Control) that are the easiest, most cost-effective, and most beneficial for your specific property.

Our Services

Q: What is a "Full Floristic Inventory" and why do I need one?

A floristic inventory is a complete, scientific catalog of every plant species on your property. This is our most advanced survey. You would want one if you are a serious conservationist, are planning a large-scale restoration, are considering a conservation easement, or want to establish a true ecological baseline for the value of your land.

Q: I'm busy. Can you just do the work for me?

Yes. Our services are designed to be flexible. We can provide you with a high-level strategic plan (like a Grazing Plan or Burn Plan) for you to implement yourself, or we can provide full, hands-on implementation for services like Brush Management, Annual Report filing, and iNaturalist project management. You can be as hands-on or as hands-off as you wish.

Still have questions? Contact us for a consultation!