Hunting generates income for landowners and businesses
By Peter Kent
Rural residents are often land-rich and cash-strapped but Clemson forestry and natural resources scientists have identified a potential income source.
Hunting on private lands is a major recreational activity in rural areas of the state. Researchers David Guynn and Greg Yarrow conducted surveys to measure landowner-hunter arrangements and the economic impact of hunting on local businesses.
Data from the last survey estimates that the total in-county private land hunter expenditures were more than $6 million in Jasper County and more than $4 million in McCormick County.
This research shows that leasing hunting rights can provide landowners a way to prosper without having to sell increasingly scarce large holdings. In addition, hunting helps communities by supporting businesses in rural counties.
For information: David Guynn, Jr.,