Young Lake Farm

Farm Description

Young Lake Farm is a true Multi-Use Farm in Ben Hill County, Georgia. Located just minutes off I-75, this high quality 345+/- acres is highlighted by an 8-acre stocked lake, income-producing longleaf pine stands, class A farm soils, excellent hunting opportunities, and a restored 19th Century Farmhouse. This 8th generation family farm has a lot of history, and hopefully the next steward can create their own for generations to come.

Improvements:

The farmhouse and the surrounding scenery will make one feel like they are back in another point in time. The 2500 sq ft, 3 bed/2.5 bath farmhouse is a timeless aesthetic that celebrates the simplicity & charm of rural country living, which was originally built in the 1870S. Many of the original interiors are still in place, such as the shiplap walls, areas of hardwood flooring, elevated ceilings, window frames, wood burning fireplace, and original pieces of furniture. However, there have been several modern updates recently completed, such as new roof, stainless steel kitchen appliances, washer & dryer, Generac backup-generator, and more. The scenery consists of an array of flowering bushes; several mature pecan trees, as well as several varieties of fruit trees (blueberry, pear, apple, & grapevine's). The springtime will be incredible around the farmhouse grounds.

The outbuildings here are excellent. Two red-iron metal buildings are in place, each are equipped with insulation, commercial roll-up door, a pair of access doors, concrete floor, and additional lean-to overhangs. Two original rustic barns are located behind the farmhouse, and have been kept in place for generations.

Land & Timber:

127+/- acres of dry farmland makes up a portion of the farm. Consisting primarily of Dothan dirt, the soils here are some of the richest you will find in the State of Georgia. A farm lease of $9,350/Annually is currently in place to provide future income. The layout of the farm field behind the farmhouse may allow for center-pivot irrigation to be implemented if desired. Peanuts & Cotton have been the rotating crops in more recent years. It is neat to know that Tobacco was the main focus on this farm up until the early 1970'S. These fields hold an ample wildlife on the farm, make for excellent staging areas, and provide peaceful views from the farmhouse. However, if the new owner sees fit, these farm fields could be converted to timberland. These soils produced some excellent timber harvests over the years amongst the wooded portions, and will be sure to do the same in future years.

The 8-acre lake, historically known as “Young Lake”, is a key highlight of the farm. Mature timber circles the lake, providing seclusion. Depths are estimated to be 9-12 feet. Lily Pads cover portions of the lake, which gives great indication on the lake's healthy ecosystem & habitat. Giant bass have been caught here over the years. The brim numbers are strong, and will make for fun summer days. Wood ducks, ring necks, hooded mergansers, and the occasional teal can be pursued. The lake has provided countless family memories over generations, whether it was fishing, canoeing, or duck hunting. A water source of this magnitude is a rare find in this market.

190+/- acres of timberland make up a large portion of the farm. 62 acres of Longleaf Pine stands are currently being raked at $200/Acre or $12,200/Annually. 70 acres of mature hardwood & pine are scattered around the farm. 35 acres of 2-year-old longleaf pines were planted around the large farm field on the North side of the farm. 7 Acres of 2-year-old loblolly pine were planted behind the lake. The mix age classes of timber here offer many different habitats for the wildlife here.

Wildlife:

This farm is game rich, and wildlife can be pursued year-round. Ben Hill County is known for producing trophy bucks. With the presence of neighboring irrigated farmland, dryland farmland, timber tracts, & the Alapaha River area, this farm is in a prime location to grow and hold trophy bucks. It should be noted that both the Turner & Wilcox County Lines are both less than 1 mile away as the crow flies, two sought-after big buck counties in their own respect. The turkey population is strong, and it is common to see hens & gobblers out in the farm fields or in the longleaf. Obviously, the lake will supply ample fishing at any given time, as well as duck hunting in the winter months.