3 answers
CareerVillage Office Hours
Student
Palo Alto, California
475
Questions
Asked
569 views
How to become a Farmer?
Share your journey & guide aspiring Farmers on their path!
Note: Given the growing interest in the farming field, we're inviting our experienced professionals to share their knowledge.
Login to comment
3 answers
Brittany Turner
Security/Investigations
16
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Brittany’s Answer
Hello,
My husband is an agriculture teacher and is surrounded by farmers, so I am going to try to think of him in my response.
First, I would suggest taking all the agriculture classes you can, in high school and college. Being a successful famer combines a lot of science, mechanical, and business skills, and these classes will give you a good introduction.
After that, I would suggest getting part time or apprentice jobs on farms whenever you can. The best way to learn is through doing, and this will help you continue your education and narrow down the type of farm you might want to have.
Finally, the hardest part is to save the money to buy farm land, machinery, plants and animals to get started. If you come from a farming family and can inherit this, that is very lucky. But many don't, and you'll have to find a way to get the land and materials needed to begin your farm career.
Starting a farm is much like starting any other business. You need money to begin, the knowledge to run it, a helpful staff, and the flexibility to change when things are not working as you expected. It can be a quite hard, but quite rewarding, field of work (no pun intended!) Good luck in your pursuits!
My husband is an agriculture teacher and is surrounded by farmers, so I am going to try to think of him in my response.
First, I would suggest taking all the agriculture classes you can, in high school and college. Being a successful famer combines a lot of science, mechanical, and business skills, and these classes will give you a good introduction.
After that, I would suggest getting part time or apprentice jobs on farms whenever you can. The best way to learn is through doing, and this will help you continue your education and narrow down the type of farm you might want to have.
Finally, the hardest part is to save the money to buy farm land, machinery, plants and animals to get started. If you come from a farming family and can inherit this, that is very lucky. But many don't, and you'll have to find a way to get the land and materials needed to begin your farm career.
Starting a farm is much like starting any other business. You need money to begin, the knowledge to run it, a helpful staff, and the flexibility to change when things are not working as you expected. It can be a quite hard, but quite rewarding, field of work (no pun intended!) Good luck in your pursuits!
Laura Rose Dailey
Farmer & Food Advocate
24
Answers
Haslet, Texas
Updated
Laura Rose’s Answer
Participate in a farming apprenticeship for a season. These programs are all over the country now and will give you real experience in what it means to farm. Things to consider when choosing an apprenticeship program:: pay (some don't pay apprentices, skip those), housing (depending on the location it can be difficult to find housing for 6-8 months which is typically the length of most seasons), educational format (is there curriculum built in? what besides hands on training do they provide), do they offer tractor experience (this isn't for everyone, but something to consider). Lastly, deciding on what kind of farming you want to try (vegetable, flower, livestock etc) will help narrow down different farms to check out.
there are plenty of ag websites you can browse through- just google farming apprenticeships and you'll find some. states often have their own resources too. good luck!
there are plenty of ag websites you can browse through- just google farming apprenticeships and you'll find some. states often have their own resources too. good luck!
Janaki Devi Kantamneni
Software Engineer
4
Answers
Lakeville, Minnesota
Updated
Janaki Devi’s Answer
Becoming a farmer involves several steps, from gaining knowledge about agriculture to acquiring land and equipment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you started:
1. Education and Training
Formal Education: Consider pursuing a degree or taking courses in agricultural science, horticulture, animal husbandry, or a related field.
Workshops and Certifications: Attend workshops, seminars, and get certifications relevant to the type of farming you are interested in (e.g., organic farming, sustainable agriculture).
Hands-on Experience: Gain practical experience by working on a farm. Internships, volunteering, or working for an established farmer can provide invaluable insight.
2. Research and Planning
Determine Your Farming Niche: Decide what type of farming you want to pursue (e.g., crop farming, livestock, dairy, poultry, organic farming).
Market Research: Understand the market demand, pricing, and competition for your chosen products.
Create a Business Plan: Develop a detailed business plan outlining your goals, strategies, financial projections, and operational plans.
3. Financing Your Farm
Personal Savings: Use your savings to fund the initial setup.
Loans and Grants: Explore agricultural loans, grants, and subsidies offered by governments and financial institutions.
Investors: Consider finding investors or partners who are interested in agriculture.
4. Acquiring Land
Leasing vs. Buying: Decide whether to lease or buy land based on your budget and long-term plans.
Soil Testing: Ensure the soil is suitable for the type of farming you plan to undertake. Conduct soil tests and consult with agricultural experts if needed.
5. Setting Up Infrastructure
Essential Equipment: Purchase or lease necessary farming equipment such as tractors, plows, harvesters, irrigation systems, and storage facilities.
Buildings: Set up necessary buildings like barns, greenhouses, storage sheds, and animal shelters.
Fencing and Irrigation: Install fencing for livestock and irrigation systems for crops.
6. Starting Operations
Planting and Raising Livestock: Begin planting your crops or raising livestock according to best practices and guidelines.
Regular Maintenance: Ensure regular maintenance of equipment, infrastructure, and health checks for animals.
Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all farming activities, finances, and inventories.
7. Marketing and Sales
Direct Sales: Sell directly to consumers through farmers’ markets, roadside stands, or a farm shop.
Wholesale: Partner with local grocery stores, restaurants, or food co-ops.
Online Sales: Utilize e-commerce platforms to sell products online.
8. Continuing Education and Adaptation
Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest agricultural practices, technologies, and market trends.
Network: Join farming associations and groups to connect with other farmers and share knowledge.
Adaptation: Be willing to adapt and innovate based on market demands, climate changes, and technological advancements.
Resources and Support
Extension Services: Utilize agricultural extension services offered by universities and governments.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship from experienced farmers.
Online Resources: Use online platforms, forums, and websites dedicated to farming for information and support.
By following these steps, you can start your journey toward becoming a successful farmer. Remember, farming requires patience, hard work, and continuous learning.
1. Education and Training
Formal Education: Consider pursuing a degree or taking courses in agricultural science, horticulture, animal husbandry, or a related field.
Workshops and Certifications: Attend workshops, seminars, and get certifications relevant to the type of farming you are interested in (e.g., organic farming, sustainable agriculture).
Hands-on Experience: Gain practical experience by working on a farm. Internships, volunteering, or working for an established farmer can provide invaluable insight.
2. Research and Planning
Determine Your Farming Niche: Decide what type of farming you want to pursue (e.g., crop farming, livestock, dairy, poultry, organic farming).
Market Research: Understand the market demand, pricing, and competition for your chosen products.
Create a Business Plan: Develop a detailed business plan outlining your goals, strategies, financial projections, and operational plans.
3. Financing Your Farm
Personal Savings: Use your savings to fund the initial setup.
Loans and Grants: Explore agricultural loans, grants, and subsidies offered by governments and financial institutions.
Investors: Consider finding investors or partners who are interested in agriculture.
4. Acquiring Land
Leasing vs. Buying: Decide whether to lease or buy land based on your budget and long-term plans.
Soil Testing: Ensure the soil is suitable for the type of farming you plan to undertake. Conduct soil tests and consult with agricultural experts if needed.
5. Setting Up Infrastructure
Essential Equipment: Purchase or lease necessary farming equipment such as tractors, plows, harvesters, irrigation systems, and storage facilities.
Buildings: Set up necessary buildings like barns, greenhouses, storage sheds, and animal shelters.
Fencing and Irrigation: Install fencing for livestock and irrigation systems for crops.
6. Starting Operations
Planting and Raising Livestock: Begin planting your crops or raising livestock according to best practices and guidelines.
Regular Maintenance: Ensure regular maintenance of equipment, infrastructure, and health checks for animals.
Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all farming activities, finances, and inventories.
7. Marketing and Sales
Direct Sales: Sell directly to consumers through farmers’ markets, roadside stands, or a farm shop.
Wholesale: Partner with local grocery stores, restaurants, or food co-ops.
Online Sales: Utilize e-commerce platforms to sell products online.
8. Continuing Education and Adaptation
Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest agricultural practices, technologies, and market trends.
Network: Join farming associations and groups to connect with other farmers and share knowledge.
Adaptation: Be willing to adapt and innovate based on market demands, climate changes, and technological advancements.
Resources and Support
Extension Services: Utilize agricultural extension services offered by universities and governments.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship from experienced farmers.
Online Resources: Use online platforms, forums, and websites dedicated to farming for information and support.
By following these steps, you can start your journey toward becoming a successful farmer. Remember, farming requires patience, hard work, and continuous learning.