At Norton Land Management, we specialize in helping farm, hunting, and recreational landowners throughout the Springfield, IL region unlock the full potential of their property. Whether your goal is to boost crop productivity, enhance wildlife habitat, increase recreational value, or protect your long-term investment, our boots-on-the-ground approach ensures real, sustainable results.
From strategic land management plans to habitat creation, timber stand improvement, trail systems, food plots, and real estate consulting, we provide a full suite of services tailored to the unique needs of rural property owners across Central Illinois.
A well-designed wildlife management plan is the blueprint for transforming your property into a thriving ecosystem. We create custom plans that outline exactly what, where, and when to implement improvements based on your land’s natural features—whether it’s open farmland, bottomland timber, or river corridors.
Our habitat plans include goal setting, a full inventory of natural resources, site-specific recommendations, and a seasonal calendar to guide implementation. The result? Improved game populations, better hunting success, and increased land value. Whether you’re managing for whitetail deer, turkey, upland birds, or general biodiversity, our habitat improvement strategies deliver results.
If you own wooded acreage, our forestry and timber stand improvement services can dramatically enhance the health, beauty, and value of your forested land. Through selective thinning, we reduce overcrowding and promote the growth of high-value hardwoods like oak, hickory, and walnut.
Beyond timber production, TSI also improves wildlife forage and cover, increases hard mast (acorn/nut) availability, and encourages native ground vegetation to flourish. This means better food sources and bedding areas for deer and other wildlife. Our forestry practices are science-based, sustainable, and always aligned with your long-term goals for timber, wildlife, or recreational use.
Strategic food plots are a game-changer for hunting and habitat management. We help landowners design and install high-impact food plots that offer year-round nutrition for deer and other game species, especially during critical stress periods like late winter and early spring.
Our turnkey services include soil testing, seed selection, ground preparation, planting, and ongoing maintenance. We ensure your food plots don’t just grow—they attract and hold wildlife. More than just hunting attractants, food plots help shift movement patterns, increase game visibility, and create better opportunities in the field.
One of the most common challenges rural landowners face is the aggressive spread of invasive plant species. From autumn olive to bush honeysuckle and multiflora rose, these invaders choke out native plants and reduce the ecological value of your land.
We offer comprehensive invasive species control services, including mechanical removal, targeted herbicide applications, and long-term suppression strategies. Let our experienced team take the burden off your shoulders and help your native habitat bounce back, promoting stronger plant diversity, healthier soil, and more resilient ecosystems.
Prescribed fire is one of the most effective land management tools for controlling invasive species, restoring native vegetation, and enhancing wildlife habitat. At Norton Land Management, we provide professionally planned and safely executed controlled burns across prairies, CRP fields, woodlands, and hunting properties in Central Illinois & Southern Illinois.
Fire helps recycle nutrients, clear overgrown brush, and stimulate the growth of beneficial plants for deer, turkey, and other game species. Each burn is guided by a detailed fire plan, including weather conditions, safety protocols, and post-burn evaluations. Whether you want to improve habitat, reduce fuel loads, or rejuvenate native ground cover, our prescribed burning services deliver long-term ecological benefits.
Creating or upgrading a functional trail and access road system is essential for property access, hunting setup, equipment movement, and land value. Whether you need access for hunting blinds, food plots, or simply want better connectivity across your acreage, we design and build roads that last.
We use smart grading techniques—such as crowned roadbeds—to promote proper drainage and prevent erosion. Our roads can be used year-round and are ideal for ATVs, UTVs, farm equipment, and even equestrian or hiking use. Well-maintained trail systems add functionality, aesthetics, and real estate value to your property.
Overgrown fence lines pose not only a risk to your fencing infrastructure but also create fire hazards and restrict visibility or access. At Norton Land Management, we offer professional fence line clearing for farms, municipalities, and private landowners, helping maintain safety and functionality.
Removing brush and maintaining clear boundaries not only increases the lifespan of your fencing but also improves property aesthetics and perimeter security. We’ll also educate you on how to prevent regrowth and keep your investment in top condition.
Erosion, nutrient loss, and poor water retention are silent threats to the long-term value of your land. We implement effective soil and water conservation practices that protect your investment and keep your land productive.
Our conservation solutions may include buffer strips, drainage improvements, cover crops, and erosion control structures. Whether you’re enrolled in a conservation program or simply want to be a better steward of your property, we’ll help you implement practices that make a measurable difference.
Abandoned fields and unmanaged pastures can quickly become overrun by invasive weeds and brush. Our pasture and field maintenance services include mowing, spraying, re-seeding, and land restoration to bring your fields back to life.
We work with landowners to restore fields, control invasive species, and promote native grasses and forbs. Whether you’re raising livestock or managing habitat, keeping your open land in top shape is crucial for both productivity and visual appeal.
Thinking of buying hunting or recreational land near Springfield, IL? Don’t go in blind. Our pre-purchase land consulting services help you evaluate property potential before you make the investment.
We’ll assess habitat quality, land use potential, wildlife presence, access points, and even recommend improvement opportunities. As independent land consultants (not realtors), our only priority is making sure the land you buy is the right fit for your hunting, farming, or recreation goals.
We’re more than just consultants—we’re lifelong hunters, farmers, and landowners who understand the unique needs of Illinois rural land. Our team brings hands-on expertise, deep local knowledge, and a commitment to long-term land health to every project.
When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a land service provider—you’re gaining a trusted partner. We tailor every solution to your specific goals, whether you’re restoring a family farm, enhancing a hunting property, or developing land for recreational use. Our mission is to maximize the value, usability, and sustainability of your land for generations to come.
Proudly serving Springfield, Illinois and surrounding towns like Chatham, Rochester, Sherman, Auburn, Pleasant Plains, New Berlin, and Riverton. Whether you own 40 acres or 4,000, we’re ready to help you make the most of your land.
Ready to enhance your land? Contact Norton Land Management today for a no-pressure consultation. We’ll walk your property, discuss your goals, and develop a custom plan to take your land to the next level.
