Just Starting Out

[Don Howard]

I own 75 acres of unimproved land in WV, about 20 acres of it is cleared and the rest is woodland. I've owned this property for 25 years and have used it for hunting and camping. I'd like to start earning some money with this land, at least enough to pay the taxes on it each year. I live about 300 miles from the property so I won't be able to actually raise crops or tend to livestock. Any ideas on how I could do this? 

[Matt Blanchard]

Has the cleared 20 acres ever been cropped?

[Don Howard]

Not as far as I know, since I've owned it it has only been grazed.

[CB Sowder]

what abiut hunting rights?

[Larry Bendal]

 is there a farm in the area that would be willing to rent it 

[Don Howard]

I don't think I want to lease to hunters.

I'd consider renting to another farmer. How would I contact another farmer, advertise in the local paper and ask the neighbors?

How about allowing someone to cut hay, or even selectivly timber it? 

[Matt Blanchard]

You could advertise in the local paper; alternatively, you could look around for a farm management outfit that might be able to hook you up with someone.

As far as having someone log it, I wouldn't even know where to start on that one.  :)

[Larry Bendal]

The neighbors should be able to tell you who the best person to rent it to is. Make sure you have a lease and don't let them put in a right of first refusal clause or else if you want to sell it your pretty much stuck selling it to them.  Assume that if it's not in the lease it won't happen. Make sure to read the lease VERY CAERFULLY.

[Don Howard]

Good point, thank you. 

[Tony Eickman]

Build a little cabin in the woods no running water in the cabin(hydrant outside) wood stove heat, rent it out to hunters depending on the game.  City guy might get a kick out of spending the weekend in the sticks shooting game-being one with nature.

[Don Howard]

I actually have this exact set up now, small cabin, outside pump, wood stove. Rent it out for the week is an idea, wondering about liability and what the insurance needs would be. I might contact the local farm bureau for ideas. 

[Tony Eickman]

I would imagine fire, theft, and flooding would be all that is needed.  I would be leary about having deer stands provided for the hunter as far as liabilty is concerned.  On the other hand if they sign a contract that you are not liable for any injury that may occur during their visit then that is fine.