To Farm, or not to Farm?

There is an automatic association most people have with rural living, which is we are all farmers.

Well, that just isn’t the case.  The truth is most rural residents are not farmers, but they do live in the vicinity of one.

Family farms used to be a staple of rural living fifty years ago, but due to technological advances in the agricultural industry and the decline of younger family members taking over the family business, family farms have gone to the wayside. Many farmers are forced to sell their farms in order to retire, or invest in new technology to keep the farm productive.  It has become known in the ag world as “Go big or go home”.

With the influx of new comers to the back roads, many have the notion that when they move to the country,  they will live off the land and provide for themselves.  This is a great idea, but putting it into practice is much more complex and laborious.

Now that said, if you are considering starting a farm, please note there are many risks, variables and variations of farming, and it takes meticulous planning and organisation in order to be successful.   Even when you think you have covered all your bases, unexpected situations can arise which can compromise all the hard work you have put into it.

Now this is not to turn you off of farming; its just the facts of farming.  All that risk is not without great reward. For when you are successful, the sense of pride justifies all of the hard work involved.

My best advice to someone considering any type of farming, is to make a plan and do some research.

Talk to local farmers, or people who are doing what you would like to be doing.  The internet has made the world of agriculture so connected and many farms have social media pages to connect the customer to the farm.  Ask lots of questions, and make notes.
Be realistic, and honest in the amount of work you are willing to put in.  Especially with livestock, you have to be there every day.  If you can’t make that commitment, then consider something else.

Make sure your plan is thorough, and ensure you have a Plan B, if things do not work the way you planned.  Have someone who has experience in agriculture look over your plan and ask for advice.  The best farmer is an informed farmer.

Keep your goals and expectations realistic, and get ready to do some work.  Farming is a rewarding business, but like any business, you must be prepared, mentally, physically, and financially.

Happy Farming and best of luck for a prosperous year ahead!