Drought, low prices, and expanding cities are all factors. In the 1950's, there were nearly 300,000 farmers and ranchers in Texas. These days, only about 80,000 Texans list farming as their principal occupation. It is very discouraging for folks who are in their 50's, 60's, or 70's. Increasingly, Texas farmers are being urged to diversify.
Orchids take up a lot less space than cattle, and earn more money.
Farmers and ranchers are looking at adding vineyards, and other drought tolerant plants. Then there's the city slicker approach. As the urban population continues to swell, working farms are becoming increasingly rare. Agricultural experts think ordinary citizens will pay good money to come see something like a cattle operation. Bonds believes many farmers and ranchers will earn extra money, by catering to tourists from the cities, desperate for wide open spaces.