How Do You Start Up A Rural Agriculture Business?
Small-scale agriculture is a rewarding, challenging endeavor. According to Wendell Berry, in 2002 there were half as many farmers in the United States as there were in 1977. The economics of industrial agriculture and agricultural subsidies have made it increasingly difficult for small-scale farmers to compete in the mainstream food market. But a new generation of independent farmers is emerging, defining unique niches and using direct-sales venues to reach discerning customers by offering quality products that their large-scale competitors cannot imitate. Get to know your land. Test the soil to learn what types of crops will grow well on your particular parcel. Study your unique microclimate in order to understand its idiosyncrasies. If a university in your area has an agricultural extension, it can provide help with this research. Plan a short-term strategy of clearing and planting a small area for immediate sales, and a long-term strategy of gradually preparing and improving additio