OPERATIONS

In keeping with the ranch mission the ranch is self supported through is ranching operations and uses actual operations for educational programs aimed at helping Texas ranchers. In 2002 the ranch diversified into ranch and nature tourism to address the interest by landowners in this type of enterprise. This has increased the opportunity for the public to enjoy and learn about the Texas ranch experience and has added a new nature tourism research and training component. Livestock enterprises include cattle and goats, with a cow/calf base herd and a meat goat production herd. The ranch also has a hunting lease.

The ranch is located in a transition zone between the northeastern portion of the Central Rio Grande plains and the Gulf Prairie and Marshes. Vegetation is dominated by a woody plant complex collectively known as “South Texas mixed brush”.  All of the ranch acreage, except 120 acres of introduced grass pasture, is native vegetation that range from dense thickets to relatively open grasslands.  The diverse mosaic of vegetation types are important as wildlife habitat.  Major game species occurring on the ranch include white-tailed deer, javelina, bobwhite quail, and morning and white-winged dove.  Numerous non-game species live on the ranch and use the ranch during migration.

RESEARCH

Numerous research projects have been and continue to be conducted at La Copita Ranch. Projects vary from rangeland ecology, brush and pasture management, quail, deer, birds and other wildlife, and currently nature tourism dynamics.
 

Turn West off Hwy 281 at blinking yellow lights at Ben Bolt, the road is County Rd 465. There is a convenience store (Badger Den) and school at this side of Hwy 281.

Follow 465 for 0.9 miles and turn left on County Road 440. This is the first left turn onto a paved road you can make, it is immediately following the only house on the left side- you will NOT see the road sign for County Rd 440 until you turn.

Follow 440 for ~7 more miles to ranch, entrance is on the right side with gate & small sign on fence left of gate. Note you can look for the ranch gate after making a 90 degree left turn and then very shortly after a 90 degree right hand turn in the road) Expect ~10-15 minutes to drive from Hwy 281 at Ben Bolt. Remember the gate is normally locked and is opened for guests by reservation or special event.
Note: There is a gas station just about 3 miles north on Hwy 281. There is another convenience store (Las Brisas) with drinks, hamburgers, etc. on County Rd 465 just about 100 yards past (North) the turn onto County Rd 440.