LANDOWNERS
Photo courtesy of TPWD @Earl Nottingham 2007
Texas is a state of working lands—from farms and ranches to forests and prairies—that deliver essential economic, ecological, and recreational benefits. With over 140 million acres of privately owned land, Texas leads the nation, making landowners vital stewards of our native landscapes.
Historically, Texas’ grasslands and prairies supported a rich diversity of plants and wildlife, but now a fraction of our native prairies remain due to habitat loss from development and other pressure.
Landowners play a crucial role in restoring these landscapes. Through responsible stewardship and collaborative conservation efforts, they can revitalize prairie habitats while keeping their lands productive and continuing to provide important economic, ecological and recreational benefits.
GUIDANCE FROM EXPERTS
Texas landowners don’t have to go it alone—a network of nonprofit organizations and state and federal programs are here to help! From expert guidance and hands-on workshops to funding opportunities and online resources, these groups provide the tools, knowledge, and support needed to restore native prairies and enhance your land’s health and productivity. Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your conservation efforts, help is just a call or click away!
ATTEND A WORKSHOP
LEARN ABOUT TAX EVALUATION
Texas’ 1-d-1 Open-Space Land Appraisal, often called the 1-d-1 program, is a powerful tool that helps landowners conserve open spaces, wildlife habitats, and natural resources—while also providing valuable tax relief.
Under this program, land that has been appraised for agricultural use for five of the past seven years can be reclassified for wildlife management use without losing its agricultural tax valuation. This means landowners can restore native prairies, support pollinators, and enhance wildlife habitats—without an increase in property taxes.
For landowners looking to diversify land use, improve ecological health, and play a role in conservation, Texas’1-d-1 program provides both financial and environmental rewards.
Find an incentive program
There is a diverse array of state and federal incentive programs designed to help landowners with cost-sharing and technical support for prairie restoration and habitat improvement projects. These programs empower Texans to restore native prairies and enhance pollinator habitats, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and sustainable landscape statewide.
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
Texas Forest Service
TX Playa Conservation Initiative
Oaks and Prairies Joint Venture
Gulf Coast Joint Venture
Quail Forever
USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program
USDA NRCS & Farm Service Agency Farm Bill Programs
Land Conservation Assistance Network
Restoring a Prairie for Pollinators and Birds
See how Julie Mattox transformed an overgrazed dairy farm into a tallgrass prairie. But instead of getting rid of the cows, she uses them as a tool to restore the prairie ecosystem. Now it’s a haven for pollinators and migratory birds, and an outdoor classroom where children learn about the prairie ecosystem. Julie’s efforts were honored with a prestigious Lone Star Land Steward Award.
VISIT A PRAIRIE
Get Inspired! There are prairie sites across the state that showcase the beauty and diversity of these unique habitats that help pollinators thrive.
Photo courtesy of TPWD @Earl Nottingham 2015
