Quote:
Originally Posted by Crowbob
I am seriously thinking of changing gears. More like switching races. 30 Acres tillable + 10 mature hardwoods (for fuel) nearly decimated by unscrupulous loggers (selectively harvested walnut) 10 years ago. 2/3 soybeans rotated with corn, wheat, 1/3 alfalfa for feed. Excellent ground in the center of the Thumb. Can this perpetuate itself i.e., pay taxes and equipment cost?
Comments/advice?
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It depends on how hands-on you are and what you intend to grow. Conventional farming - no, you can't compete with mega-farms on 30 acres.
But I know a woman who is making a living on 2 acres of lavender - picking it, drying it, selling it. Another is doing well with a dairy goat farm. Local and organic foods are getting bigger every day and bring a premium. There is a growing demand from organic and local marketers and packagers for produce, so you don't have to do the whole dirt-to-consumer marketing like you used to. You find the right niche crop and you can do well, but you aren't going to make it with corn and soy beans.