Large Rewards of a Small Farm

by Mark Fisher

January 2022

While large-scale farming may be where the big money is, many people don’t realize how rewarding a small-scale farm can be. Of course, you are not going to get rich from a small farm, but there are many ways it can be rewarding as a supplemental income, a hobby, or as an investment.

From growing up on a small 40-acre farm, to living twenty-two years of my adult life on one, I have had many pleasant experiences and have learned many things on a small farm. The headaches are not as big as they are for a large operation, and the mistakes made are usually not as costly. The rewards can be just as large, maybe not monetarily, but in many other ways.

Produce

One of the best resources that can be gleaned from a small farm is produce. Basically, you can go as big or as small as you have the time, patience, and space for. You can grow just enough for your family or to feed the whole neighborhood. You can also sell your produce at farmers’ markets or your town’s square. This can usually be done for free or for a very reasonable price. Sometimes local restaurants or grocers will also buy local produce. Selling pumpkins in the fall is also very profitable. The varieties of produce are vast, from strawberries, grapes, and the jellies made from them, to walnuts and pecans. All of these are coveted products, especially as many people these days desire organic foods.

Livestock

Livestock on a small farm can be from large four-legged creatures to small two-legged creatures. While your space is limited, you can still raise an adequate supply of beef or pork, for self-consumption or for a nice supplemental income. Chickens can also be a great source of meat and eggs to consume or sell. They are also great insect control for the garden. Raising horses or donkeys can be a very lucrative business if you want to make the investment. Other forms of livestock include quail, turkey, dogs, and rabbits to mention a few. They can all be raised on a considerably small amount of land.

Recreation

While maybe not being as financially rewarding, the recreation factor of a small farm makes it even better. Fishing can be a fun, inexpensive hobby if you have ponds or lakes on your property. Shooting ranges can be constructed very cheaply, also. There are many things like four-wheeler riding, hiking, ball fields, and volleyball areas, as well as having several pets. Raising children on a farm can be a great learning experience for them, from learning how to grow their own food to learning life skills that will help them in adulthood, not to mention exercise and more constructive ways to spend time.

Crops

While some people use small farms for many other things, some choose to use most of the available resources to grow crops. Although most people don’t want to invest in the machinery needed to plant and harvest, renting your land to someone to farm can be a great way to increase income and help with mortgage payments. While corn and soybeans are the favorite crops, other options are available. Some can be produced without owning large equipment, such as tobacco. There are sometimes regulations on the amount of tobacco you can raise, so a small farm is a great place for it. Sunflowers and hemp are also options, to mention a few. Hay is also a great option, especially if you also raise livestock. There are also government conservation programs (CRP) that will pay you not to plant crops if you meet certain guidelines.

Low Expenses

Another advantage to a small farm is the typically low cost of maintenance and upkeep. Usually, you can get by with a small tractor and a small assortment of implements, such as a blade, posthole digger, brush hog, and hay gathering equipment. Taxes are generally reasonable, considering the amount of acreage and the type of dwelling on the property. Insurance is usually not a major expense, either. While land prices are increasing, a small farm can still be worth paying the money for. Land is a great investment, and small farms are in great demand by people for a country retreat, tax write-off, or supplemental income. If you decide it is not for you, you will probably have no trouble selling the property, probably for a profit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, great things do come in small packages, such is the case with a small farm. The advantages and good experiences far outweigh the shortcomings. From raising livestock and crops to raising kids, there is an interest for everyone. Although it may be somewhat lucrative monetarily, it is definitely a rewarding and worthwhile lifestyle for most people.