Are you a new farmer or interested in getting started in farming? Are you unsure of where to begin? Farming is seeing resurgence in interest and participation from people all over the country and finding accurate information on agriculture can sometimes be a challenge. Besides your local Extension office, another good place to find additional information is the site http://www.start2farm.gov/.
As new farmers, you may not be aware of some of the important things that you need to consider before diving in. Take some time to plan ahead and you will be happier and more productive than if you start your new farm business blindly. As the site recommends, try to consider your purpose, plan, product, and people. What is your purpose and why do you want to become a farmer? Have you thought about all the early mornings, late nights, and the learning curve required to be successful? You will need to plan ahead for bad weather, equipment purchases, and where to sell your product. You may need to learn to be your own mechanic or fence builder. Do you know how you will get your product to people who want to purchase it? And one last consideration is the people in your life. Does your spouse, children, or neighbors object to what you want to do?
In life you really never stop learning and this seems especially relevant in agriculture. On the site www.start2farm.gov you will find services in:
1. Training – includes programs and resources that teach any aspect of being a successful farmer or rancher.
2. Financing – includes loan programs, development accounts, grants and other programs to help farmers and ranchers finance their enterprise.
3. Technical Assistance – includes identified programs in your location to assist with topics such as business planning, land transfer, licensing and regulations, alternative energy technologies, and farming techniques, among others.
4. Networking – this includes information on programs and organizations that provide farmers and ranchers with opportunities to exchange ideas and find farmer-to-farmer support.
Now is a great time to get started in agriculture, just remember to take a step back and evaluate. With the public becoming more concerned about where their food is coming from, environmental challenges, and changes in technology and production techniques, having a source of information that is non-biased is extremely helpful. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to the Ag Informer at https://blogs.cornell.edu/agnewscenter/ for an additional source of information as you get your start in farming!
