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James Lanier

James was born and raised in Ridgeville, WI, located in the west-central part of Wisconsin known as the Driftless Area. He spent his childhood roaming the woods around his family farm. His love of the outdoors, especially managing the land for wildlife, was passed down to him from his grandmother and mother. His grandmother was one of the first farmers in the state to convert marginal agricultural land and pasture back into woodlands. Along with his mother, he manages his family’s 360-acre farm for deer/wildlife, timber, and agriculture. Parts of the farm have been in his family for over 125 years. For James, it has been a proving ground for wildlife enhancement projects that include: food plots, timber/forest stand improvements, invasive species control, prairie restoration, hardwood, and softwood tree plantings, shrub plantings, enrolling in government programs such as CRP, CSP, and MFL, pond construction, erosion control projects, and more. The farm also has a small maple syrup operation that James started in 2006. 

 

In 2014 James formed two Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) cooperatives with his neighboring landowners. Since then, the two cooperatives have grown to include 10 neighbors. In 2015 he formed a Quality Deer Management (QDM) cooperative with these same neighbors and other neighboring landowners. This cooperative has grown to over 63 landowners who are experiencing excellent neighbor relationships and 2021 proved to be their best deer hunting season ever.

 

From 2015 to 2020 James was the Midwest Director for the Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA). Through his leadership, Wisconsin broke into the top ten in QDMA memberships while holding the most events in the nation. He was actively involved in forming QDM cooperatives, hosting field days/property tours, designing deer/habitat management plans, workshop presenter, fundraising, habitat improvement projects, and more. Currently, he is working with the National Deer Association (formally QDMA) as an Independent Consultant managing volunteer Branches/Chapters in 11 Midwest states.

 

In 2020 James earned QDMA’s most prestigious certification, Deer Steward 3. This is earned by completing courses on deer and wildlife habitat, biology, ecology and management, quality deer management, deer herd management, principles of hunter management, collecting/interpreting deer harvest/observation data, and through his long-term service to QDM principles, Whitetail Deer, and other wildlife. Obtaining the Deer Steward 3 certificate takes years to qualify for, less than 70 QDMA/NDA members hold this prestigious deer management certification.

James served 3 years in the US Army as a Military Policeman; he is a graduate of UW-Madison with a degree in accounting. He and his wife Cathy have two sons, Jacob age 26, and Jared age 24, both enjoy hunting, outdoor activities, and working on the family farm. 

 

Memberships include National Deer Association/Quality Deer Management Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pheasant Forever, Wisconsin Bowhunters Association, Wisconsin Buck and Bear Club, Waunakee Bowhunters, National Wildlife Cooperative, Wisconsin Woodland Owners Association, National Woodland Owners Association.

 

“Whether you are interested in buying or selling hunting land, recreational land, a farm, a lake home, or a place to live – I am here to help! I am excited to be part of the United Country Team, a state-of-the-art real estate firm. When you hire me to be your Real Estate Agent you are hiring an experienced Wildlife Property Specialist as well. I can help you find, and improve, the property of your dreams. If you are looking to sell, I provide the most comprehensive marketing plan available. Call, text, or email – I am here to help!”

 

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My Listings

Gently Rolling Forest – Sparta, WI

Sparta, WI
Monroe
This 65+ acre parcel is looking for your unique touch! Its rolling topography creates a feeling of space. Enhancing it with your ideas and plans will create a feeling of “place” as well. It is located just 12 minutes north of Sparta with easy access off Hwy 71. There are multiple building sites on the property with electricity running along the road frontage. You will really love the professionally groomed 2.5-mile trail system throughout the property taking you easily from the front to the back of the property. It is made up largely of White and Jack Pines, and Red Oaks. You will also find some Red Pine, Cherries and Red Cedars. It sets up great for deer hunting with plenty of stand sites for you, family, and friends. The area is known for its deer population, and for big bucks. When you tour the property, you will find plenty of buck rubs and deer trails throughout. Quality Deer Management is practiced in the area by neighbors. There are also plenty of other wildlife including: Turkeys, squirrels, and grouse.   When you tour the property one of the first things that you will realize is that this is truly a blank slate of opportunities. One of the first things you may want to do is to create a camping/cabin/home site near the front of the property or on top of the hill near the center of the property. Adding an electrical hookup will really enhance your overnight experiences. The second thing to consider is to clear off some more of the trails. There is a mile or more of trails that can be cleared off to create even better access. Opening some areas for food plots or wildlife openings would be another project that will help diversify the property even more. From there the possibilities are endless, add some brush piles for rabbits, put in some Bluebird houses, plant some areas into food plots and apple trees, the list goes on. Really, make it your own, it is really a unique opportunity to do so. Not only will you enjoy the process, but the wildlife will also.   There are two connecting parcels, both are in the MFL program for low taxes. The front parcel expires at the end of this year. The back parcel expires in 2033. Both parcels are in the MFL Open program, they can be converted to the Closed program on January 1, 2025. There are no required logging practices remaining on either contract. The last logging took place in 1985. The property has been under the same ownership for over 125 years. It is now time to make it your own. Call James or Coltyn today, your Local, Rural Property Experts!
$325,000

Extraordinary Country Living Experience La Crosse County

Bangor, WI
La Crosse
Embark on an extraordinary country living experience at "Serenity Ridge," a captivating 35.25-acre haven, offering not only a beautifully designed ranch-style home with 5 bedrooms and 2.5 baths but also an array of versatile outbuildings. Nestled in the tranquility of countryside living, this property caters to those seeking the perfect blend of serene landscapes and world class hunting opportunities. The property's appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and hunters is sure to catch the eye of even the most experienced outdoorsman. Breathtaking panoramic ridgetop views, surrounded by deep wooded valleys mixed with pockets of mature hardwood timber and brushy thickets makes for ideal habitat for trophy whitetail deer. The 6.5+/- acres of open land offers a blank slate ready to be turned into the ultimate wildlife habitat. Ridgetop access along with low pressure viewing right from the comforts of your home make for a dynamite setup for success on the trophy whitetail bucks this area is known for. The area has many landowners owning large tracts of land with QDM practices that have been in place for years. Wildlife abounds on the property, with game trails weaving through the wooded acres and frequent sightings of trophy whitetail bucks, turkeys, and other game. Seize the unique opportunity to own a piece of the driftless area, where the expansive landscape promises thrilling hunting experiences and the potential for creating your own outdoor paradise. Aside from the phenomenal hunting potential, the property features a well-equipped barn with spacious padded stalls, feed/hay storage, and a heated tack room. An expansive indoor riding arena with a viewing room, a machine/pole shed, and two horse shelters complement the turn-key equestrian facilities. Numerous fenced paddocks and lush grass pastures create an idyllic setting for horses and livestock enthusiasts. Whether you are a dedicated hunter, horse lover, or someone yearning for versatile country living, "Serenity Ridge" stands ready to fulfill your dreams.
$739,900
3 Bedroom Home with 20 +/- Acres in Monroe County WI Sold

3 Bedroom Home with 20 +/- Acres…

Warrens, WI
Monroe
Discover this extraordinary slice of country living located at 22060 Cty Hwy EW, Warrens, WI. This meticulously maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers an expansive living space in addition to 19+/- acres of a nature lovers paradise. Upon entering through the front door you are welcomed into a spacious open concept living space. This area consists of a large living room with a natural fireplace, large eat in kitchen along with direct access to the 4 season patio room through the double sliding glass doors. Also featured on the main floor is a full master ensuite with his & hers closets, 2 additional large bedrooms, a full bathroom, along with a main floor laundry room that has access to the 2+car attached garage. The full basement features endless opportunities to finish to your liking. It offers ample space for storage, workshop, utilities, downstairs living area, and is stubbed for a future bathroom. Venture outside, and you'll find 19+ acres of land with the perfect mixture of timber and open lands, providing a highly diverse landscape right out your own back door. The extensive trail network meandering through the property beckons exploration of the towering ridgeline and valleys below. Whether you prefer nature walks, hiking, hunting, or ATV adventures, your own private trail network ensures that outdoor enthusiasts can access almost every inch without leaving the property. A newly constructed 30x40 pole shed features a concrete floor, 2 overhead doors and covered lean to area. This building offers versatility for storage, hobbies, or workshop space that one can only dream of.
$424,900
Escape to Your Private Wilderness Retreat in Monroe County, WI Sold

Escape to Your Private Wilderness Retreat in…

Tomah, WI
Monroe
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Monroe County, Wisconsin, lies a pristine 50+/- acre property that promises to be your sanctuary in the woods. This overlooked wildlife haven offers the perfect opportunity for those who relish the great outdoors, from hunters to nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking an escape from the urban hustle. Accessible via US Highway 12 or through the adjacent county forest, this property is perfectly situated just minutes north of Tomah & I94, ensuring convenience while immersing you in the beauty of the countryside. Within this wooded paradise, you'll find mature stands of mixed hardwoods, softwoods, and white pine, ideal for hiking and a variety of other outdoor activities. The property also boasts a small pond and a spring-fed stream, perfect for fishing, wildlife observation, or various hunting opportunities. For avid hunters, this property is a dream come true. Multiple hunting stand locations are already in place, providing an excellent setting for deer, turkey, bear, and duck hunting. The adjacent county forest extends your hunting opportunities further by creating room for all of your hunting camp buddies and provides several other access options for any stand location or wind direction. Whether you're looking for a serene getaway or a hunting camp, this property offers endless possibilities. Escaping the city and enjoying the beauty of the countryside without sacrificing convenience is within your reach. Experience the changing seasons and create cherished memories in this natural wonderland. Affordable properties like this one are in high demand. Secure your own piece of Wisconsin wilderness by scheduling a visit today. Contact Coltyn Bettis at (608)633-1087 to arrange a showing and make this Monroe County, WI, woodland paradise your very own.
$134,900
29+ acre parcel located in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin Sold

29+ acre parcel located in the Driftless…

Wilton, WI
Monroe
This property is typical of the Coulee Country, a central ridge top separated by a steep-sided valley (called coulee) on one side, and a gentle-sloping hillside on the other side. Along the ridge top are several rock outcroppings that really set this property apart from many others. This property features access along two county roads with electricity along both road frontages. This easy access opens it up to possibilities galore including multiple building sites. One building site has been perc tested for a 3-bedroom home or cabin. This property has been used mainly as a deer and turkey hunting parcel. Deer season is just around the corner, so now is the time to purchase this piece and call it your own! This area of the county is known for its high population of deer. It’s a rutting buck hotspot with heavily used deer trails, buck rubs throughout, travel corridors/funnels, native brows, mature oaks and more! On the top of the ridge are several food plots, perfect spots for your deer stands. Not only is it an amazing habitat for deer, but also turkeys and many other types of wildlife. On the west side of this property is a camper site already set up. Build your hunting camp there, or you can set up camp along the east side of the property. Both locations have electricity nearby and are perfect spots for a cabin, or even a home. The trails system throughout this property is second to none! Perfectly manicured trails take you anywhere you want to go. Its shape, layout, topography and access give this property a sense of “big space” making it seem much bigger than 29 acres. The woods consist of a variety of trees typical of a northern forest: red, white & black oak, sugar & red maple, shagbark hickory, cherry, elm, birch and more. In time it will be ready for a timber harvest. This property won’t disappoint! Whether you are looking for a hunting parcel, or a place to get away to and experience nature in your own way, this is it! Call today, before it’s too late! The Sparta Elroy bike trail is just minutes away, the Kickapoo River for canoeing and kayaking is nearby and so is the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. Just down the road is a trout stream with public access. This parcel is secluded, yet close enough to the Thriving Communities of Wilton, Kendall, Norwalk, Cashton, and Tomah. A Thriving Community is, “… one that fosters a sense of belonging, that feels alive, engaged, welcoming, and resilient. Where people creatively approach problems that arise and work together to navigate change. It’s one you’re glad to come home to. It’s one you love.” It is only 9 minutes from Wilton, 10 minutes from Kendall, 20 minutes from Tomah, 1 hour from La Crosse, and 1.75 hours from Madison. For more information contact Rural Property Specialist James Lanier, Your Local Real Estate Expert! (608-514-5181).
$179,900