One important topic is always the career opportunities available in the forest industry. On the trip back to the Columbia area, the teachers visited a tree farm and discussed with Billy Cate and Jeff Brown the various aspects of private individuals growing trees as an economic crop. Billy Cate management also involved his work with wildlife, especially in raising migratory ducks. Billy Cate and Jeff Brown discuss the Tree Farm operation. Teachers toured Billy Cate's farm and also discussed his work with migratory ducks.
Tree Farms provide habitat for a multitude of animal and plant species.
That evening was spent first visiting Yancey McLeod s home at Cooks Mountain and later discussing his educational philosophy and land management objectives. Yancey was the guest speaker after supper that night at the historic Church of Holy Cross. Yancey has developed a partnership with Richland District I schools to conduct an extensive natural resource program for the elementary schools in the area. His sincerity and commitment was certainly evident in his speech and actions with the teachers. Yancey McLeod is a prime example of a private landowner dedicated to good stewardship and education.