How to Start a Small Farm

Course Description:
This introductory course provides a comprehensive roadmap for aspiring farmers seeking to launch a successful and sustainable small-scale agricultural enterprise. Designed for individuals with little to no farming experience, this class moves beyond romanticized notions of farming to cover the practical realities of land acquisition, business planning, and infrastructure development. Students will learn to evaluate land for agricultural potential, navigate zoning regulations, and develop a basic farm business plan, including financial projections and marketing strategies. We will explore various production models, such as intensive vegetable production, pastured poultry, and specialty crops, allowing students to identify the best fit for their goals, resources, and market. The course culminates in a feasibility plan for the student’s own farm concept. Note: This is a classroom-based course; no hands-on fieldwork is required, though practical case studies are heavily utilized.

Key Topics:

• Goal Setting and Farm Visioning
• Land Access: Buying, Leasing, and Evaluating Soil & Water Resources
• Introduction to Farm Business Planning and Budgeting
• Infrastructure: Fencing, Hoophouses, and Water Systems
• Selecting Enterprises: Vegetables, Livestock, and Value-Added Products
• Basic Crop and Livestock Management Principles
• Marketing Channels: Farmers Markets, CSA, and Wholesale
• Regulatory Basics: Zoning, Food Safety, and Insurance