Farming is a business, as well as a way of life. Whole Farm Management is a comprehensive guide developed by the Small Farms Program at Oregon State University to help aspiring and beginner farmers make smart business decisions to ensure lasting success. In clear, accessible language, this book covers every essential step, from developing a strategic plan to acquiring equipment, establishing infrastructure, finding markets, budgeting, managing day-to-day operations, and selecting a business structure for long-term viability. The emphasis throughout is on using sustainable agricultural systems and managing the whole farm, whether raising grass-based livestock, perennial food crops, or annual crops such as flowers. Case studies of successful farms, along with guidance and solutions to common problems from long-time farmers, round out this essential handbook.
Author(s): Garry Stephenson (Editor)
Publisher: Storey Publishing
Year: 2019
Language: English
Pages: 312
Tags: farming
Introduction: Growing a Farm
Chapter One: DREAM ITStrategic Planning
Whole Farm Planning
Human Resources
Creating an Identity for Your Farm
Natural Resources
Building the Whole Farm Plan
Dream It: Putting It All Together
Goodfoot Farm
Slow Hand Farm
Chapter Two: DO ITFarm Infrastructure, Labor, and Energy
Equipment and Infrastructure
Season-Extension Equipment for Vegetables and Berries
Irrigation Equipment and Infrastructure
Farm Labor
Farm Energy
Do It: Putting It All Together
Good Work Farm
Kiyokawa Family Orchards
Chapter Three: SELL ITMarkets and Marketing
What Is a Market?
Marketing Strategy
Direct Market Techniques for Small Farms
Sell It: Market Planning
Keys to Success
Urban Buds: City Grown Flowers
Vanguard Ranch
Chapter Four: MANAGE IT Business Management for the Farm
Goal Setting and Budgeting
Record Keeping
Financial Statements
Analysis
Manage It: Putting It All Together
Blue Fox Farm
Chapter Five: GROW ITManaging the Whole Farm Ecosystem
Planning and Intervention
The Farm Ecosystem
Managing the Farm Ecosystem
Key Practices in Sustainable Agriculture
Grow It: Putting It All Together
Sweet Home Farms
Rainshadow Organics
Chapter Six: KEEP ITEntrepreneurship, Family Business Dynamics, and Managing Risk
Entrepreneurship
Business Structures
Family Business Dynamics
Licenses and Regulations
Reality Check: Risk Management
Running a Small Farm Business
