Many people are buying homes in the country lately, seeking freedom from the pressures of city life. If you're moving to a new home in a rural location, one of their most attractive features are large, affordable plots of land. If you've recently moved onto such a large plot, it might be time to start your own farm. Here are a few reasons why.
One of the main reasons to start a farm is to break out of the harmful paradigm of industrial farming. Communities that sustainably produce their own food benefit the environment simply by providing locally sourced food. Smaller-scale farms distribute organically grown vegetables and meat without expending large amounts of natural gas for transportation.
Becoming part of your local farming network will reveal its unique set of needs. You'll do what you can provide in order to strengthen the local supply chain while making a profit. In doing so, you can improve the lives and health of everyone around.
Starting your own farm is a continuous learning experience. Your property will have unique soil composition, terrain, and areas that receive different amounts of sunlight at different times. This continuing education also involves research and acquisition of the right tractors, tillers, irrigation, and seeding machines for your land. Becoming an expert is rather fulfilling.
Other benefits include: daily physical activity, independence, and rarely needing to commute. There's always a need for farms because there's always a need for food, so job security is one of farming's huge draws. It fosters a closer relationship with nature. Your work directly benefits your community in ways you'll experience every day.
It requires research and networking to figure out how your farming operation will find its stride. When you have sufficient data, and you're making educated choices, your farm will profit.
This doesn't happen without an investment. Resources for new farmers abound, especially government assistance. There are many success stories from beginning farmers who started with agricultural business loans. The USDA loan page is an excellent place to start.
Farming unlocks your property's full potential. Local farms are an asset to the community, contributing to its overall wellness. Finally, it's likely you'll make a profit while engaging in one of the oldest, most satisfying types of work known to mankind. It's worth it to take the risk, so start small, and enjoy the journey.
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.
