Cooper Ranch

624 Acres Nolan Co. Texas

Property Description: This is truly a "ONE OF A KIND" wildlife paradise in a West Texas setting. Much of the ranch consists of canyons on both sides of a valley surrounded by a 6000 acre unhunted wind farm. It is managed strictly for wildlife by a professional wildlife biologist. This is beautiful rugged country with numerous high scenic points and breathtaking views. The remote and secluded area assures that there will be little if not any unwanted disturbances for wildlife or humans. It is primarily native trees and brush with some clearings and 60 acres of cultivated land in the center of the ranch used for wildlife food plots. This is truly a sportsman's dream.

Location and Directions: The Cooper Ranch is located in Nolan County, 30 miles west of Abilene and 10 miles east of Sweetwater. To get to the gate, take the White Flat Rd. exit on I20 which is 2 miles west of Trent. Take White Flat Rd. south for 2 miles, then take CR 130 west for 1 1/2 miles. Green Gate is on the left. The ranch is in a remote area mostly bordered by large ranches. The head waters of Noodle Creek, which runs through the middle of the property, begins in the upper canyons of the ranch. The GPS location of the gate is 32 27 19.24 N and 100 11 51.52 W.

Topography: The Cooper Ranch lies within two Ecoregions. The southern part of the ranch is in the most northern region of edwards plateau most commonly known as the "Texas Hill Country." The northern part of the ranch rolls out onto the Rolling Plains. The mixture of ecoregions creates a transitional area of diversity which creates a unique wildlife habitat. The hills and hilltops consists of cedar, shin oak, spanish oak, flame leaf sumac, and numerous brush species. The plants consist primarily of mesquite, cedar, hackberry, spanish oak, prickly pear, and numerous brush species. Noodle Creek forms in the numerous canyons and runs northward through the middle of the property. Elevation ranges from 2090' to 2480'.

Wildlife and Wildlife Management: The ranch has an excellent resident whitetail deer population with a doe/buck ratio of 2:1. It also abounds with wild hogs, turkey, quail and dove. Other wildlife includes javalina, mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, fox, and numerous small game and fur bearing species. The canyons are rich with numerous species of song birds, raptors, roadrunners, and others.

The whitetail deer are fed protein year round with two bulk protein feeders centrally located on the ranch. Two wildlife watering facilities have been installed. Game also use numerous mineral licks. The layout of the ranch and the surrounding 6000 acre non hunted wind farm make it very conducive for a trophy deer management program. In the fall, winter and spring, deer from all around flock to the 25 acre food plot in the center of the ranch. This is usually planted with beardless wheat and winter peas. There is also a food plot planted in the shape of a giant deer antler for game birds. This is planted with numerous types of millets, grains, clovers, sunflowers, and etc. Several areas have been cleared of brush to open up areas to allow native plants to be more productive. The ranch has been deferred from deer hunting and cattle grazing for more than 9 years in some areas and 5 years in all areas.

Recreation: The ranch is a prime hunting ranch for the numerous species of game previously mentioned. There are many miles of roads and trails for 4 wheeling, hiking, or horseback riding. Corn feeders set to go off three times per day attracts lots of game perfect for that wildlife photographer. Bird watchers will love seeing the great variety of birds including painted buntings that flock to the only permanent water supply in the valley. Wildlife watering facilities are provided water from a solar spring and holding tanks. There are several beautiful camp sites located throughout the ranch. Take a swim in the 5 1/2' x 18' water holding tank or relax on the deck around it. Or just simply enjoy the peace and quiet and watch the famous west texas sunsets.

Improvements: Improvements include a nice set of pipe cattle pens with a working chute and loafing shed. The windmill is fully functional but water is currently drawn by a submersible pump which fills a 5 1/2' x 18' holding tank. This then feeds into watering facilities. There is a storage building, electric meter with an RV hook up. Other improvements include hunting blinds, feeders, cross fencing, 8 stock tanks and 2 water wells.

Taxes and Utilities: The property has an electric meter. Water meters are available. Taylor electric supplies the power and the Blair water system supplies the water. The property is currently has an agriculture variance and uses the wildlife management program as the agriculture practice. Current taxes on property are $624.00 per year. Schools are Trent ISD. Listing agent is also partial owner of property.