The Generation Next: Our Turn to Ranch 12-week online course is open for registration. The program, offered by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, takes place Aug. 19-Nov. 20.

A woman sits at the wheel of an all-terrain vehicle as a man in a cowboy hat opens a gate to a field of cattle.
The Generation Next: Our Turn to Ranch 12-week online course is open for registration. The program includes expert instruction related to agricultural business operations and land management. (Courtney Sacco/Texas A&M AgriLife)

The course fee is $300, and online registration is required at https://tx.ag/GenNext.

The course includes expert instruction on everything from starting a new agriculture business or enterprise to tax implications and insurance needs to developing grazing or wildlife leases.

“Across Texas, we’re seeing individuals who may or may not have experience in agriculture or natural resource management inheriting or purchasing agricultural lands,” said Megan Clayton, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension range specialist and professor in the Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management, Uvalde.

“The Generation Next curriculum is specifically designed to empower these landowners with the knowledge and resources needed to start a new agricultural operation, improve an existing one or manage the land to meet their specific stewardship goals.”

Getting started with a business plan

The online school enables participants to work toward developing a business plan with support from professionals who specialize in each field and topic, Clayton said. Participants can expect to spend roughly two hours per week on the lessons and activities and can participate at their convenience.

Enrollees will learn from experts regarding land management techniques and resources, alternative ranching operations, ecotourism opportunities, insurance and tax considerations, direct marketing and more. They will also learn how to set goals with measurable objectives for success.

Upon course completion, participants will have a useful business plan for their operation and receive a Generation Next certificate and T-shirt.

Course provides financial and ecological foundation

Since beginning in 2019, the online program has reached 744 landowners, and improved knowledge is not the only benefit participants can expect.

“On average, participants anticipate the course has an annual economic benefit of about $11,000,” Clayton said.

In addition to business and production-related topics, the course also provides a critical foundation in ecologically and environmentally sound land management.

“One of my favorite lessons was learning the importance of soil and vegetation types and how we can manage them sustainably,” said Joell Hohman, spring 2024 course participant. “I have a lot more to learn, but now I have a broader foundation and a great list of resources to draw upon when I have questions in the future.”

For more information, contact Clayton at 830-988-6123 or [email protected].

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