Matt, here is a file on small acreage management techniques from TPWD. Hopefully this will give you a head start. State assitance from TPWD in my opinion is excellent, the only down side may be it could take them a while to get out there. This is their busy season and like most agencies they are over worked and under paid. But check out this file and TPWD's private lands section on their website. There is additional information that may be helpful to you.

Good luck.

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  Click here to download this file.
  

The TPWD will help, they sometimes have tunnel vision other that deer if you are trying to make money of cattle or crops. The US Forrest Service will also give you some information.

Any suggestions for hired professional help with wildlife/small ranch management? Food plots, water, recommended maintenance stuff

NRCS is also a tool. (other than TPWD) - try to get both at different times to give you a broader perspective

The state also has a "naturalist" program that you can contact and possibly get one to visit your place (another view/opinion)

Wacorusty-I have had outstanding success with Plateau consultants (hired help) in the hill country, but they work state wide

Matt- save your soil. Without soil you can't grow plants that grow animals, regardless of how much rain you get. Increase plant diversity, identify plants that don't help your goals, put a plan together to remove. Do what you can to reduce poaching interest/activity, try to establish a sanctuary (no human presence) and enjoy being a land owner! Hard work but rewarding

wacorusty,

I do a fair amount of ranch and wildlife consulting.  Primarily habitat managment and supplemental food plots.  I would be happy to answer questions.  Fire away!

TPWD and NRCS are good informational sources, depending on the local employees and mgmt in their offices.  TPWD is often very difficult to get out to your place when you want. 

Matt:

The I know a few people that are TPWD.  The ones I know are good people.  Each county will vary.  Their knowledge, expertise, and interest in your property will vary as well.  As a consultant, the first thing I would recommend to you is that you decide what you wish to witness or accomplish with/on your property.

Come up with some goals first.  Then begin the search.  Focus on mangement pertitent to your particular habitat.  TPWD website has some good reads on habitat mgmt if you wade through it.  Good place to start.

Can we not edit on here>  Sorry, that was suppose to read:

I know a few TPWD biologists.