Farm life??
Question:Hey there,
I have been thinking for along time about saving and then buying a run down place in the country with a small bit of land. Big enough to grow some crops and have cattle, sheep, pigs, chickens etc, in a hope to grow my own food and become semi sufficient.
However, im still young, i guess, 21, and dont really know where to start. I dont have much of an idea about how much this will cost. Also is it nessisary for certain qualifications to raise animals and grow produce??What about machinery? im on the edge and dont know alot about this problem. I mean id love to hear from farmers and the like. Im just very curious and wondered if someone could point me in the right direction to find more information.
Many thanks,
sean
Answers:
Sean,
FWIW if you can save up enough money for a down payment on a 40 acres a single guy to 160 acres for a family to subsistance farm and be comfortable not rich but enough.
Contrary to what someone else mentioned avoid dealing with a realtor, instead watch for auctions and contact farmers make it a habit of getting to know some people. Get in the truck and drive around, contact some people ask if there are any jobs you could do around the farm for them, and talk with them about how to get into the business.
The family farm is a dying breed but I truly believe it is possible for young people to still do it. Don't believe otherwise.
. Don't do like I did, and look back in 30 years and wish you'd did something. Do it now. Even at 21 if you have no credit start with putting money aside for a down payment, then buy a fixer up place.
For equipment get a small 9n or Farmall tractor, watch farm sales for equipment. Check out ytmag.com or ebay.com for equipment.
In order to use chemicals you may need to get certified to mix and spray herbicides or pesticides.
for critters find a breed you like, if you like shorthorn cattle get a couple bred heifers, if you like duroc pigs buy a couple bred gilts. Chickens and birds check the mcMurray hatchery (online)..
Don't hesitate and don't listen to the naysayers. Go for it.
SAVE,Save,Save
Cost: Consult a local realtor or realestate listings in the area you are looking in. As for the raising the animals, again, each area if different. I'd suggest trying to make friends with someone already doing what you are interested in doing, and maybe offering your labor in trade for knowledge and lodging - perhaps they's let you stay there during your vacation time - you give them free farm labor and they give you knowledge in what you are looking for - animal and/or crop/machinery related.
Talk to people - read books, make friends! There is a lot of friendly people and free knowledge out there - you just gotta go asking for it.
Hi Sean, I would suggest you try your poly tech for a basic course in animal husbandry, and at the same time see if you can do some work as a farm labourer.
If you are in a country where locals have there "plot of land" or community gardens try joining them. Many are the type of people who are into that sort of thing.
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