Saturday, September 23, 2006

The Very Beginning...

I am going to use this web log as a journal of my journey into the world of farming. I hope that it can be a source of information for other people that have the same dream that I have (full-time farming). Since I do not have any immediate family that is currently involved in farming I am looking into the potential of alternative farming that does not take as much land as conventional Iowa row crop farming. Some of the ideas that I am researching are berries, cut flowers, pastured hogs, free range broiler chickens, organic eggs, sheep, and goats. I want to have a diverse group of farming endeavors in order to have things producing income at all times of the year. I am not looking for a hobby, rather I'm looking at farming as a full-time job.

Some of the biggest questions that I am facing now are in the realm of finances. How much capital will it take to get started? How much cash-flow will be needed, and where will it come from as we start? How much can I expect to make with certain crops or livestock? And, how and to whom will I do all of my marketing? As I find answers to these questions I will post my results and thoughts. Also, if you have questions ... or even answers ... feel free to contact me!

9 comments:

Yeoman said...

I love the photo on this one. Can you provide more details on it?

Ethan Book said...

To tell you the truth, I'm not sure where that photo came from. I stumbled on it one day searching on the internet and used it for a background on my computer for a while. I too love it!

Yeoman said...

Well it's a great one.

Anonymous said...

Well I see you've been pondering this "farming thing" for a while now. I can't imagine many people getting into the business without having some sort of family connection really because there is so much to learn, so much work to do and big capital expenses if you go it full-hog.

Saying that, we're giving it a go so I guess we're "beginning farmers" too.

All the best, and keep up the good work!

Yeoman said...

Well, let me jump the gun on Ethan, and state, in reply to the below, all the best to you, our Kiwi compatriot, and welcome to our Ethan gathered group.

"Saying that, we're giving it a go so I guess we're "beginning farmers" too.

All the best, and keep up the good work!"

Jerry said...

Diversity...I'd say you had just the right mindset for starting off in these times.

I just found this blog so am having a look at how things have gone for you so far.

Anonymous said...

My husband and I are also thinking of becoming farmers, we have three children and want them to grow up closer to nature. I'm so glad I came across your blog. I haven't browse much, but I will. My husband is being laid-off, last day of work is June 30th. We will know by August if is financially possible.

Rach7 said...

This is where I am at with my farming blog.(just starting) Great to meet you!

Rookie minimalist said...

Thank you for sharing your experiences from the beginning I am only 22 but look forward to learning from your blog what to expect and.prepare for a farm someday!

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