Texas rancher said no to wind turbines twice; royalties now help his ranch
A fifth-generation West Texas rancher twice rejected wind turbines on his family property before agreeing to host seven turbines from the Cactus Flats wind project. Since 2019, the regular wind income has helped cover ranching costs, from livestock feed and workers to fences and repairs. The project also helped him invest in a community site in Menard, showing how wind royalties can support…
Texas rancher John E. Davis initially refused proposals for wind turbines on his family's property twice before agreeing to host seven turbines. The wind project, now known as Cactus Flats Wind Facility, has become a significant source of income for Davis, helping him maintain his ranching operation and invest in community projects.
Davis, a former state representative and small business development committee chair, owns the ranch near the Concho County-Menard County line with his brother Keith. The initial rejection was due to aesthetic concerns, but the family eventually agreed when they realized the wind lease would provide a stable income to offset challenges like fluctuating livestock prices, drought, and rising feed costs.
Davis's family benefits from the consistent payments, which cover operational costs and support various projects. The wind turbines have also improved access and created a more pleasant environment for the animals, who now seek shade under them during summer. Despite initial opposition to energy development on rural properties, Davis advocates for private property rights and believes renewable energy can support rural landowners.
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