Travis Owen

Missouri: The Heart of Eastern Turkey Hunting Heritage Travis Owen Missouri Land Specialist There’s nothing quite like the thunder of a gobble echoing through a Missouri hollow as the sun breaks over the timber. For countless hunters across the state, it’s more than a spring ritual—it’s a turkey hunting heritage that ties generations together. Missouri doesn’t just offer world-class turkey hunting—it helped shape the sport itself. From near extinction to a thriving population, from handmade calls to national championships, Missouri is the undisputed heartland of Eastern wild turkey hunting. A Conservation Comeback Like No Other By the mid-1900s, wild turkeys were hanging on by a thread in Missouri. Habitat loss and unchecked hunting had driven the population to fewer than 2,500 birds statewide. But that wasn’t the end of the story—it was the beginning of a comeback. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) launched one of the nation’s most successful trap-and-transfer programs and led the charge in rebuilding wild turkey populations. With its ideal mix of timber, open fields, and water sources, Missouri quickly became a stronghold for the Eastern subspecies—and a model for conservation programs across the country. Today, Missouri is a top destination for turkey hunters nationwide, known not just for numbers, but for tradition. A Cradle of Turkey Hunting Talent Missouri didn’t just bring the turkeys back—it raised up some of the finest turkey hunters and callers in the country. From Paul Butski—a multiple-time Grand National Calling Champion—to legendary hunters like Ray Eye, Missouri’s turkey woods have trained and tested the best of the best. These are hunters who’ve appeared in national media, written books, and shaped how calling and conservation are approached across the U.S. Closer to home, Leroy Braungardt from the Moscow Mills and Old Monroe area helped bring turkey hunting to living rooms—literally. My dad, like many others in Missouri, learned the cadence and rhythm of the wild turkey by listening to Leroy’s instructional vinyl record. Decades before YouTube or apps, Leroy was teaching hunters the art of the call, one scratchy needle drop at a time. His influence can still be heard in the woods every spring. Then there are names like JR Lanham, a skilled turkey hunter whose reputation was built not in magazine spreads or calling contests, but in the woods themselves. JR’s a guy who knows the terrain, knows the birds, and has passed on more than a few lessons to those lucky enough to hunt alongside him. He’s part of that long line of Missouri turkey hunters who understand that the hunt is about more than a tag—it’s about tradition. These men—and many more like them—are part of a culture that values quiet mornings, subtle yelps, and hard-earned gobbles. A Springtime Way of Life In Missouri, turkey hunting isn’t a weekend hobby—it’s a rite of passage. Youth seasons are where memories are made. Opening day is circled on calendars. And even the most seasoned hunters still feel that flutter of adrenaline when a longbeard steps into view. With more than 2 million acres of public hunting land and some of the best managed conservation areas in the country, Missouri offers opportunities for every type of turkey hunter—from the first-timer on a borrowed box call to the veteran running mouth calls he crafted himself. Stewardship Starts at Home Private landowners have played a massive role in keeping Missouri’s turkey populations healthy. Managing habitat for turkeys—whether through prescribed burning, thinning timber, planting food plots, or letting native grasses take hold—pays dividends not just in bird numbers, but in the health of the land itself. Many of the best turkey hunters are also the best land managers. They know the value of leaving edges, maintaining diverse cover, and working with nature—not against it. It’s a cycle of stewardship that benefits wildlife and families alike. Guiding the Next Generation At High Point Land Company, we understand that owning land isn’t just about acres—it’s about opportunity. It’s about hearing your kid’s first gobbler, watching a bird strut across a ridge you worked hard to restore, and being part of a tradition that’s bigger than all of us. If you’re ready to find your own piece of ground where the gobblers still roar and the legacy lives on, we’d love to help.   Do you want to learn more? If you’re considering buying, selling, or managing land, reach out to a local High Point Land Company Agent. For more questions visit our YouTube Knowledge Center.   Travis was born and raised just outside of Middletown, Missouri. He spent his childhood in the outdoors, hunting and working on the family farm.  During the off-season, he enjoys improving the habitat for local wildlife. He has extensive knowledge of timber stand improvement, invasive species removal, and utilizing fire as a land management tool. Travis has a wealth of outdoor knowledge, from hunting and farming to dirt work. He is passionate about helping others succeed, no matter their goals. Whether you need assistance setting up a property for more efficient hunting, increasing encounters with target game species, solving erosion problems through soil conservation, or making land improvements, Travis is eager to help. If you are interesting in selling your farmland, call Travis at (573) 470-8776 or email him at travis@highpointlandcompany.com

Prescribed Burning: A Powerful Tool for Land Stewardship Travis Owen Missouri Land Specialist   Prescribed burning—also known as controlled burning—is one of the most effective, natural tools landowners can use to manage and improve their property. Whether you're stewarding a century farm, managing hunting ground, or maximizing native grassland on CRP acres, fire can play a crucial role in long-term land health and productivity. What is Prescribed Burning? A prescribed burn is the intentional application of fire to a specific area under carefully controlled conditions. These burns are designed and executed by trained individuals that include landowners, friends, family, land managers, and conservation employees to achieve targeted land management goals—often mimicking the natural fire cycles that historically shaped North American ecosystems. Unlike wildfires, which can be destructive and unpredictable, prescribed burns are planned with safety, weather, and ecological impact in mind. Why Use Prescribed Burning? Boost Native Plant Growth:
Fire helps eliminate invasive species and allows native grasses, wildflowers, and forbs to thrive. This is particularly important for land enrolled in conservation programs or managed for native prairie restoration. Improve Wildlife Habitat:
Deer, turkey, and upland game birds benefit from the diverse vegetation that follows a burn. Open understory, new browse, and edge habitat attract everything from trophy bucks to nesting quail. Enhance Forage and Pasture Health:
For livestock operations, burning can jumpstart spring growth, increase forage quality, and reduce brush encroachment—especially in fescue or mixed-grass systems. Reduce Fuel Load and Wildfire Risk:
By clearing dead vegetation and underbrush, prescribed burning minimizes the risk of uncontrolled wildfires. It’s a proactive way to protect timber stands, buildings, and neighboring properties. Prepare Ground for Planting or Re-seeding:
Whether you’re looking to frost-seed native grasses or establish food plots, burning can clean up residue, expose mineral soil, and reduce weed competition. When is the Best Time to Burn? The timing of your burn depends on your goals. Spring burns (typically February to April in the Midwest) favor warm-season grasses and reset woody growth. Late summer or fall burns can help control cool-season invasives like fescue or brome. Dormant season burns offer flexibility but may not provide the same vigor to warm-season species. Always consult with local conservation agencies or certified burn professionals to plan the safest and most effective burn window. Safety and Regulations Prescribed fire is not a DIY activity. Burn plans must take into account wind direction, humidity, fuel moisture, burn breaks, smoke management, and escape contingencies. Many states require permits or burn certification before lighting a match. Partnering with organizations like your local NRCS office, Prescribed burn associations, conservation districts, or private land management services ensures both safety and success. Interested in Managing Your Land with Fire? At High Point Land Company, we specialize in helping landowners make the most of their properties—whether that’s through habitat improvement, CRP management, or increasing recreational and resale value. If you’re curious about prescribed burning or need help connecting with trusted professionals in your area, give us a call. High Point Land Company - Guiding You to the Peak of Land Ownership.   Do you want to learn more? If you’re considering buying, selling, or managing land, reach out to a local High Point Land Company Agent. For more questions visit our YouTube Knowledge Center.   Travis was born and raised just outside of Middletown, Missouri. He spent his childhood in the outdoors, hunting and working on the family farm. After graduation, he hit the road as a pipefitter, hunting from state to state on his days off. In 2021, Travis moved back to Missouri and purchased his first piece of land with his wife in Lincoln County, MO. During the off-season, he enjoys improving the habitat for local wildlife. He has extensive knowledge of timber stand improvement, invasive species removal, and utilizing fire as a land management tool. Travis has a wealth of outdoor knowledge, from hunting and farming to dirt work. He is passionate about helping others succeed, no matter their goals. Whether you need assistance setting up a property for more efficient hunting, increasing encounters with target game species, solving erosion problems through soil conservation, or making land improvements, Travis is eager to help. If you are interesting in selling your farmland, call Travis at (573) 470-8776 or email him at travis@highpointlandcompany.com

 Lincoln County, Missouri’s Land Market Is on Fire, Here’s Why Travis Owen Missouri Land Specialist Lincoln County, Missouri's land market is on fire and has emerged as one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. Just outside the greater St. Louis metropolitan region, this area offers natural beauty, economic opportunity, and recreation. It’s a great place for both buyers and sellers of land. Lincoln County is growing fast. Its population is expected to double between 2000 and 2030. More blue- and white-collar Missourians are choosing to work, live, and play here. Natural Beauty and Recreation Lincoln County boasts breathtaking landscapes, particularly in the Elsberry Knobs area, which offers stunning views of rolling hills and valleys. For outdoor enthusiasts, the county is a treasure trove of activities. This area is home to massive Midwest whitetail deer, abundant turkeys, and top-tier duck hunting along the Mississippi River. It also boasts numerous caves ready for exploration. The region’s rich equestrian heritage includes competition arenas, barrel racing, roping events, and public trail riding areas. Rich Infrastructure and Natural Resources The county’s value is enhanced by its robust infrastructure and abundant natural resources. Lincoln County’s eastern side features limestone and sand mines, while the western side has significant clay deposits. The Mississippi River facilitates barge transportation, and railroads snake through the higher portions of the river bottoms near Old Highway 79. Major highways—I-70, US-61, MO-47, and MO-79—ensure easy accessibility, making Lincoln County a logistical asset for businesses. Public Land and Conservation Areas Lincoln County offers several public areas for recreation and wildlife observation. This includes the BK Leach Conservation Area, Millsap Bridge Access, Logan Wildlife Area, Prairie Slough, and Cuivre River State Park. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife photography, making them popular destinations for locals and visitors alike. Conservation efforts in the county are further supported by organizations like Delta Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). These groups actively promote wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and sustainable hunting practices. Thus, they ensure the preservation of Lincoln County’s rich biodiversity for future generations. Community Support Systems Lincoln County is home to a variety of community support systems that help ensure residents are happy, healthy, and safe. These organizations provide critical resources and services to meet the diverse needs of the community: LCCOA (Lincoln County Council on Aging): This organization provides communities and services for senior citizens, ensuring they have access to support and engagement in their golden years. Oasis Resource Center: A vital resource offering free and confidential services to help women and families during pregnancy and beyond. Key Youth Center: A community partnership aimed at ending youth homelessness in Lincoln County, offering shelter and support for vulnerable young people. Troy Dream Center: A nine-month, faith-based residential program designed to support men overcoming life controlling issues, including drug and alcohol addiction, depression, and abuse.  Bridge of Hope: Focused on providing compassionate, holistic care to individuals experiencing homelessness in the St. Louis region, offering a safe place to heal. Lincoln County Health Department: Committed to protecting and promoting a healthy and safe environment through community outreach, ongoing assessment and policy development, education, and innovative solutions to address health issues. These programs and initiatives contribute significantly to the well-being of Lincoln County residents. They foster a sense of community and ensure that support is available for those in need. Educational Opportunities Ranken Technical College, located just outside of Troy, Missouri, is a premier institution. It provides hands-on technical education and career-focused training for students in the region. It Offers programs in fields such as automotive technology, construction, advanced manufacturing, and IT. Ranken equips students with the skills needed to succeed in high- demand industries. Its proximity to Troy makes it an accessible resource for local residents looking to advance their careers or enter the workforce with specialized training. Additionally, the Pike-Lincoln Technical Center, serves as another valuable resource for vocational and technical education in the area. It's situated just across the Pike County line. The center provides high school and adult students with training in areas like health sciences, welding, culinary arts, and industrial maintenance. Together, Ranken Technical College and the Pike-Lincoln Tech Center offer a robust network of educational opportunities. Thus, ensuring that residents of Lincoln and Pike counties have access to the tools and knowledge necessary for personal and professional growth. These institutions not only benefit students but also support the local economy. They cultivating a skilled workforce to meet the needs of regional employers. Cultural and Historical Events Lincoln County, Missouri, offers a vibrant array of cultural and historical events that highlight its rich heritage and community spirit. A cornerstone event is the annual Lincoln County Fair, which typically takes place in July at the county fairgrounds. This beloved tradition features 4-H and FFA exhibits, live music, demolition derbies, horse shows, truck and tractor pulls, and a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Another major event is the Rotary Club's Shrimp Boil, a community favorite that combines great food, camaraderie, and fundraising for local causes. This event not only brings residents together but also supports important community initiatives and projects. Throughout the year, the Troy Area Chamber of Commerce hosts additional events, such as craft fairs, seasonal festivals, and food truck gatherings, fostering local culture and engagement. For history enthusiasts, the Lincoln County Missouri Historical Society provides programs, exhibitions, and resources. These programs delve into the county's past, ensuring that its stories and traditions are preserved for future generations. These events, along with community-driven efforts, make Lincoln County a vibrant place to live and visit. They offer something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating its cultural and historical identity. Agricultural Contributions in Lincoln County Over the past decade, land values in Lincoln County, Missouri, have experienced notable changes. These changes reflect broader trends in the state's agricultural real estate market. Specific annual data for Lincoln County is limited. However, available information provides insight into these trends. According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, Lincoln County had 218,355 acres of farmland. This was down from 227,433 acres in 2017. The average farm size was 208 acres. The market value of products sold from these farms was approximately $116,672 million. Of this, crops contributed 71%. Livestock, poultry, and related products contributed 29% to the total market value. This reflects the diverse agricultural output in the region. Shifts in Land Values and Market Trends Over the last five years, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing urban sprawl have significantly shifted land values. This has been especially evident in areas like Lincoln County, Missouri. The pandemic accelerated a migration from densely populated cities to rural and suburban areas. People sought more space, privacy, and opportunitie s to work remotely. This increased demand for rural properties drove land prices to unprecedented levels. Recreational land, which was previously more affordable, now sells for a minimum of $7,500 per acre. Buyers are prioritizing outdoor spaces for hunting, campin g, and other activities. Mixed-use land that supports both farming and recreation has seen even greater demand. It now fetches up to $14,500 per acre due to its versatility. Prime commerc ial locations have also increased in value. Growth along major highways and expanding infrastructure has driven prices up to $30,000 per acre. Businesses are positioning themselves to capitalize on the area's growth. Additionally, the scarcity of smaller unrestricted vacant parcels has pushed prices for tracts of 10 acres or less to over $12,000 per acre in many areas. This makes them highly sought-after by both investors and individuals looking to establish rural homesites. This increased demand comes despite the high costs of drilling wells in the area. This means residential wells average $25,000–30,000 and commercial wells exceed $55,000. Even with these expenses, buyers are willing to pay premium prices. They see the long-term value of owning land in an area experiencing rapid growth and transformation. This trend reflects the broader shift in lifestyle preferences and economic opportunities that have reshaped the land market in the region. Economic Opportunities and Industries Missouri's business-friendly environment, with its comparably middle-ground taxes, expansive workforce, and diverse shipping options, is increasingly drawing the attention of industries looking to expand or relocate. From rail lines and highways to river ports and proximity to major transportation hubs, the state offers a robust infrastructure to support manufacturing and logistics operations. As industries begin to see the writing on the wall, areas like Lincoln County stand out as untapped opportunities for growth and investment. The data suggests Lincoln County, in particular, presents a unique blend of economic and lifestyle advantages that position it as an "opportunity" for the not-so-distant future. With its accessible location near major markets like St. Louis and a growing network of infrastructure, the county is ripe for industrial and commercial expansion. Every year, more manufacturing operations are recognizing the potential of the area, contributing to job creation and strengthening the local economy. Beyond its business potential, Lincoln County boasts some of the best duck hunting in the nation. It also has trophy deer and turkey populations that attract outdoor enthusiasts from across the country. The scenic beauty of the area, coupled with a welcoming community and opportunities for recreation, makes it not just a place to work but a place to thrive. As industries continue to diversify and expand, Lincoln County offers the perfect intersection of opportunity and quality of life. The combination of its natural resources, strategic location, and proactive community makes the future of Lincoln County bright. For businesses and families alike, it’s a place that promises growth, prosperity, and a high quality of life. Transportation Infrastructure Improvements The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is undertaking significant improvements at the intersection of Highway 61 and Route 47 in Troy to enhance safety and traffic flow. The existing bridge over U.S. Route 61 is being replaced with a diverging diamond interchange (DDI), a design known to improve traffic efficiency and reduce collision points. This $15.4 million project, awarded to KCI Construction Company, includes widening the bridge deck, adding dedicated lanes in each direction, constructing an ADA-compliant pedestrian walkway, and relocating the Frenchman Bluff Road intersection. Construction began in June 2024 and is expected to be completed by fall 2025. Beyond this interchange, MoDOT is conducting a Traffic Safety & Operations study for the U.S. Route 61 corridor from the I-64/I-70 interchange to the Lincoln County line. This study aims to assess current and projected traffic volumes, review safety and crash data. It also identifies necessary improvements to accommodate increased travel demands and enhance safety. Approximately $36 million has been allocated for construction of corridor improvements starting in 2027. The Twin Rivers Prescribed Burn Association The Twin Rivers Prescribed Burn Association is a collaborative effort dedicated to improving land management and ecological health in the region. By utilizing prescribed burns, the association helps combat invasive species that threaten native ecosystems, enhances farmland productivity, and improves habitats for natural wildlife. These controlled burns are carefully planned and executed to mimic natural fire cycles, promoting the growth of native plant species while reducing the spread of invasive plants. Additionally, the association’s efforts play a critical role in reducing the risk of uncontrolled wildfires by safely managing combustible vegetation, which in turn alleviates the burden on local fire departments. Through education, resources, and community engagement, the Twin Rivers Prescribed Burn Association is fostering healthier landscapes and safer communities. Property Taxes Missouri ranks 1,216th out of the 3,143 counties in the United States for median property taxes, making it an affordable location for land ownership. The average yearly property tax paid by Lincoln County residents amounts to approximately 1.98% of their annual income. This affordability, coupled with the county’s natural beauty and economic opportunities, makes it an attractive option for buyers. A Welcoming Community Lincoln County’s residents are known for their warmth and friendliness. Most will greet you with a smile and a wave. They will respect your privacy while also being open to conversation when invited. This sense of community, paired with the county’s many amenities, makes it a desirable place to call home. Tips for Buyers and Sellers For buyers, Lincoln County offers a wide range of opportunities, from hunting properties and recreational land to farmland and residential lots. The area’s strong infrastructure and proximity to major urban centers like St. Louis add to its appeal. Sellers, on the other hand, can benefit from the growing demand for land, especially properties with unique features such as access to public hunting areas, equestrian facilities, or proximity to natural resources. Conclusion Whether you are buying or selling, Lincoln County, Missouri, offers an incredible mix of opportunity, affordability, and natural beauty. With its growing population, rich resources, and welcoming community, it is no wonder that this county has become a sought-after destination for land ownership. If you are considering buying or selling land in Lincoln County, now is the time to take advantage of all it has to offer.   Do you want to learn more? Discover why Lincoln County is one of Missouri’s fastest-growing areas—buy or sell with confidence today and reach out to a local High Point Land Company agent to start. For more questions visit our YouTube Knowledge Center.   Travis was born and raised just outside of Middletown, Missouri. He spent his childhood in the outdoors, hunting and working on the family farm. After graduation, he hit the road as a pipefitter, hunting from state to state on his days off. In 2021, Travis moved back to Missouri and purchased his first piece of land with his wife in Lincoln County, MO. During the off-season, he enjoys improving the habitat for local wildlife. He has extensive knowledge of timber stand improvement, invasive species removal, and utilizing fire as a land management tool. Travis has a wealth of outdoor knowledge, from hunting and farming to dirt work. He is passionate about helping others succeed, no matter their goals. Whether you need assistance setting up a property for more efficient hunting, increasing encounters with target game species, solving erosion problems through soil conservation, or making land improvements, Travis is eager to help. If you are interesting in selling your farmland, call Travis at (573) 470-8776 or email him at travis@highpointlandcompany.com