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Running a farm is a diverse and complex business, and managing it properly requires a good understanding of farm accounting. It can be challenging to keep track of all the expenses and income, but with the right accounting tools, it can be made easy. In this post, we will provide an overview of some key accounting terms and types of forms that farmers should be aware of. Accounting Farm accounting is the process of keeping track of income, expenses, and other financial information related to farm operations. Farmers must keep accurate records of their farm income and expenses and use accounting tools to track their financial position. Farm accounting helps farmers to make informed decisions about their operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. In addition to simple tracking income and expenses, farm accounting also includes recording, analyzing, and summarizing financial transactions and activities related to agricultural operations. It involves the management of financial data, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities, to provide accurate and up-to-date information about the farm's financial position. Farm accounting helps farmers monitor their financial performance, assess profitability, and make informed decisions about resource management, budgeting, and investing. It also enables compliance with tax obligations and regulatory requirements. Effective farm accounting practices involve maintaining detailed records, preparing financial statements such as balance sheets and income statements, and employing various tools and software to streamline financial management. By implementing proper accounting procedures, farmers can optimize their financial performance, make informed business decisions, and ensure the long-term sustainability and success of their agricultural operations. Schedule F The Schedule F form is a tax form that is used by farmers to report their income and expenses. This form is used by farmers who operate a farm for profit and have gross income of at least $1,000 in a tax year. On Schedule F, farmers report their farm income, including sales of livestock, produce, and other products, as well as income from custom work or services. In addition to income, Schedule F requires farmers to report their expenses, such as feed, fertilizer, seed, rent, and labor costs. The expenses are classified into categories such as farm supplies, taxes, insurance, and repairs, and the total amount is deducted from the farm income to determine the net income or loss. The net income or loss is reported on the farmer's tax return and is used to calculate the farmer's income tax liability. Balance Sheet A balance sheet is a financial statement that provides an overview of a farm's financial position. It shows the assets, liabilities, and equity of the farm at a specific point in time. Assets are resources that the farm owns, such as land, equipment, and livestock, while liabilities are debts that the farm owes to others, such as loans and accounts payable. Equity is the difference between the assets and liabilities and represents the owner's investment in the farm. By comparing the assets and liabilities, the balance sheet provides a snapshot of the farm's financial health. For example, if the assets are greater than the liabilities, the farm has a positive net worth and is considered financially healthy. However, if the liabilities are greater than the assets, the farm has a negative net worth and may have difficulty paying off its debts. Income Statement An income statement is a financial statement that shows the revenue and expenses of a farm over a specific period, usually a year. The income statement is divided into two sections: revenue and expenses. Revenue is the income generated from the sale of products or services, while expenses are the costs incurred by the farm to generate revenue. The difference between the revenue and the expenses is the net income or loss. The income statement helps farmers assess the profitability of their farm operations and identify areas where they can improve their efficiency and reduce expenses. Profit and Loss Profit and loss is a summary of the income statement that shows the net income or loss of a farm for a given period. This information is essential for farmers to gauge whether their farm is profitable or not. Profit is what is left over after all the expenses have been paid, while a loss means that expenses exceed income. Profit and loss statements are essential tools for farmers to use when making decisions about how to allocate resources and plan for future investments and potential expansion. Profit and loss statements (also known as P&L statements ) are an essential component of farm accounting as they provide a snapshot of the farm's financial performance over a given period. The information they provide is critical for monitoring the farm's financial health, identifying areas where expenses can be reduced, and evaluating the effectiveness of farm management strategies. Thus, regular preparation of profit and loss statements is crucial for maintaining sound farm accounting practices and making informed business decisions. Assets Assets are resources that the farm owns and that have economic value. These include land, buildings, equipment, livestock, and crops. The value of these assets is important for calculating the financial health of the farm. Assets play a crucial role in farm accounting as they represent the resources and investments owned by the farm. Monitoring and valuing these assets accurately helps determine the net worth of the farm and the collateral available for securing loans or financing future investments. Additionally, tracking the depreciation and appreciation of assets over time is important for making informed decisions regarding upgrades or replacements. Managing and maximizing the value of these assets is key to maintaining a profitable and sustainable farm operation. Liabilities Liabilities are debts that the farm owes to others. This includes loans, accounts payable, and other forms of debt. It is important to keep track of liabilities to ensure that they are paid in a timely manner and to prevent negative impacts on cash flow. Keeping track of liabilities on a farm is another critical aspect of good farm accounting. Farmers should keep accurate records of all the loans they have taken, such as bank loans or credit cards, and the terms and conditions of each debt. Maintaining a list of accounts payable, such as bills and supplier invoices, is also an essential part of tracking liabilities. Farmers should ensure that they are making timely payments or at least paying them before any interest charges or late fees get incurred. By keeping track of these liabilities, the farm's overall debt can be managed effectively, and any outstanding debts can be paid promptly. Expenses Expenses are the costs incurred by the farm to generate revenue. These include feed, fertilizer, seed, rent, and labor costs, among others. Properly tracking expenses is essential for budgeting and tax purposes. One way to do this is by using a bookkeeping system that records all expenses, such as rented equipment, animal feed, fertilizers, and wages for farmhands. Farmers may use software to keep track of their expenses or manually record on a ledger. All receipts and invoices should be recorded properly to ensure accurate expense tracking. It is also important to categorize expenses into different categories such as farm supplies, rent, and marketing expenses, to make it easier to analyze and track the farm's spending. By keeping accurate records of expenses, farmers can budget more effectively and avoid cash flow problems. The Importance of Record Keeping Record keeping and accounting are vital for the effective management of a farm. By maintaining accurate and detailed records, farmers can monitor and analyze their financial transactions, track expenses, and evaluate the profitability of their operations. This allows farmers to make informed decisions about purchasing inputs, selling products, and allocating resources. Additionally, thorough record keeping ensures compliance with tax obligations and facilitates timely reporting to regulatory agencies. It also enables farmers to track inventory levels, manage cash flow, and plan for future investments. Ultimately, record keeping and accounting provide the necessary information and insights to optimize farm performance, maximize profits, and ensure long-term sustainability. In addition to using these tools and terms, farmers can also seek advice and assistance from qualified accounting professionals to ensure that they are managing their finances properly. If you’re looking to take your record keeping and finances online, check out Farmbrite’s farm management software !

Source: Mississippi State University (MSU) news release A groundbreaking development in agriculture is taking root at Mississippi State University (MSU). On Thursday, October 26, university officials unveiled the Agricultural Autonomy Institute, a cutting-edge research center that stands as the nation's first and only interdisciplinary hub focused on autonomous technologies aimed at revolutionizing on-farm precision and efficiency. This remarkable initiative builds upon MSU's longstanding commitment to precision agriculture and its rich history of innovation in the field. The Agricultural Autonomy Institute is set to become a bustling nexus for researchers across the campus who are passionate about pioneering technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and remote sensing. These innovations hold the potential to elevate agricultural precision, production, and profitability to unprecedented heights. Headed by Alex Thomasson, who serves as the director of the Agricultural Autonomy Institute and leads MSU's Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, the institute is championing the use of autonomous technologies to address labor shortages by enhancing the efficiency of farm workers through novel systems. Thomasson explained, " Autonomous systems multiply the productivity of a single farm worker, enabling them to oversee multiple machines and operations simultaneously. The overarching goal of the institute is economic development, attracting agricultural equipment companies and fostering research that will pave the way for technology-based startup companies. Furthermore, it aims to cultivate a new workforce equipped with the skills to thrive in this era of robotics, mechatronics, and computer coding. The aspiration is to transform Mississippi into the Silicon Valley of agricultural autonomy. " His team of researchers already embarked on a multitude of projects aimed at optimizing agricultural precision, production, and profitability. The institute boasts an impressive research infrastructure, including a spacious 4,800-square-foot laboratory within the Pace Seed Technology Laboratory, as well as a five-acre proving ground named "Autonomous Acres" located at MSU's R.R. Foil Plant Science Research Center. The management of the institute is a collaborative effort between the university's Office of Research and Economic Development and the Division of Agriculture, Forestry, and Veterinary Medicine. Support for this groundbreaking initiative also comes from the Bagley College of Engineering, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station, as well as various other MSU institutes, research centers, and departments.

In a world where convenience often trumps health, and fast-food restaurants seem to occupy every corner, a significant problem plagues many communities: food deserts. The term "food desert" refers to areas, often in low-income neighborhoods, where access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food is limited or non-existent. This issue affects millions of individuals, leading to a range of health problems and perpetuating cycles of poverty. But the good news is that there is a growing movement to combat food deserts and develop strategies for change. Understanding the Problem Food deserts are not a new problem, but they have gained more attention in recent years as we've become increasingly aware of the consequences of limited access to nutritious food. In these areas, people may live miles away from a grocery store or fresh produce market. Instead, they rely on convenience stores and fast-food chains for their meals, which are often high in calories, low in nutrients, and contribute to health issues like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Food deserts disproportionately affect low-income communities, making them vulnerable to a range of health problems due to inadequate nutrition. Access to fresh, healthy food should be a basic right, but the reality is far from it. The battle against food deserts has become a pressing concern that requires attention, dedication, and, most importantly, actionable strategies for change. Strategies for Change Community Gardens and Urban Farming : One effective strategy for combatting food deserts is to promote community gardens and urban farming initiatives. These projects empower communities to grow their own fresh produce and reduce their reliance on distant supermarkets. By making use of vacant lots, rooftops, or public spaces, individuals can cultivate their own fruits and vegetables, improving local access to healthy food. Mobile Markets and Food Trucks : Mobile markets and food trucks can play a crucial role in bringing fresh food directly to underserved communities. These mobile initiatives can visit different neighborhoods on a regular schedule, offering a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other essential food items. They bridge the gap between food deserts and nutritious meals. Incentives for Healthy Food Retailers : Governments and local authorities can provide incentives to encourage healthy food retailers to set up shop in food desert areas. This might include tax breaks, grants, or reduced rent for grocery stores and markets that commit to offering affordable, fresh produce to the community. Community Education and Empowerment : Raising awareness about the importance of a healthy diet and teaching individuals how to make nutritious choices is a key component of the battle against food deserts. Community organizations and educational institutions can host workshops, cooking classes, and nutrition education programs to empower residents with the knowledge and skills they need to make healthier food choices. Advocacy and Policy Change : Advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels is essential for creating lasting change. Lobbying for policies that incentivize the development of grocery stores in underserved areas, improving public transportation to reach food retailers, and supporting initiatives like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) can have a substantial impact. Collaboration with Local Farmers : Collaboration between local farmers and food desert communities can help ensure a consistent supply of fresh, seasonal produce. Farmers' markets and direct-to-consumer sales can provide affordable and locally sourced food options. Volunteer and Nonprofit Initiatives : Many nonprofit organizations and volunteers are actively working to address food desert challenges. Supporting these initiatives with donations or by volunteering your time can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by food deserts. The Battle Continues The battle against food deserts is a complex and ongoing struggle, but it is one that is worth fighting for the health and well-being of communities. We must recognize that access to nutritious food is not a luxury but a fundamental human right. As more individuals, organizations, and communities come together to address the issue, we can create lasting change and put an end to food deserts. By implementing these strategies and advocating for the right policies, we can ensure that everyone has access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food, regardless of where they live. The battle against food deserts may be far from over, but it's a battle worth fighting.

Source: American Farm Bureau Federation news release In a groundbreaking decision, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals has delivered a significant win for farmers, affirming that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must base its determinations on rigorous scientific evidence and adhere to the rule of law. The court's ruling was unequivocal in asserting that the EPA had disregarded legal mandates when it revoked tolerances for chlorpyrifos, effectively prohibiting the use of this pesticide. This legal battle was not waged by farmers alone but by a coalition of agricultural organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, who contended that the EPA had turned a blind eye to compelling scientific data affirming the safety of chlorpyrifos. Zippy Duvall, President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, expressed the organization's gratitude for the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals' recognition of the EPA's failure to comply with the law when it revoked chlorpyrifos. Duvall emphasized the unwavering commitment of farmers and ranchers to produce safe and wholesome food, underpinned by their reliance on science to make informed decisions regarding pest and insect management. The court's decision today sends a resounding message to the EPA: it, too, must prioritize sound scientific principles when formulating regulations. This landmark ruling is not just a victory for farmers, but a triumph for evidence-based decision-making and the importance of adhering to the law. It underscores the significance of a robust scientific foundation in shaping agricultural and environmental policies and serves as a beacon of hope for those who depend on science to make informed choices in the complex realm of farming. To read the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling click here .

Food deserts, where residents have limited access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food, have been a persistent issue in the United States. Combating food deserts involves addressing the lack of access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food in certain communities. Many states have taken steps to tackle this issue but there is still much work to be done. The problem changes depending on how you look at the state. Some states will have a higher density of people living in a food desert and others have a higher land mass to food desert ratio. The US Department of Agriculture publishes an atlas of food deserts . It details the areas in many ways. Any way you slice it, there are food deserts in the US which means people aren't able to access healthy food easily. Read on to find out what states are working to combat food deserts and what you might do in your area. How States Can Combat Food Deserts States and local municipalities can employ various strategies to combat food deserts, addressing the lack of access to fresh and healthy food in underserved communities. These strategies often involve a combination of policy initiatives, financial incentives, and community-based programs. Here are several ways in which states might combat food deserts: Tax Incentives for Retailers: States might provide tax incentives for grocery stores and retailers that open or expand in food deserts. These incentives may include tax breaks or credits to offset the costs associated with establish ing businesses in these areas. Mobile Farmers' Markets and Food Trucks: States may support or fund mobile farmers' markets and food trucks that bring fresh produce and healthy food options directly to underserved communities. This approach helps overcome transportation barriers faced b y residents in accessing nutritious food. Community Development Grants: Allocate grants to support community-driven initiatives, such as community gardens, urban farms, or coop erativ e grocery stores. These grants can empower local residents to take an active role in addressing food access issues. Transportation Solutions: Invest in improved public transportation options to enhance residents' access to grocery stores outside their neighborhoods. States may also explore shuttle services or other innovative transportation solutions to brid ge the gap in food access. Policy Advocacy and Legislation: Advocate for and implement legislative measures that address the root causes of food deserts. This may involve changes to zoning laws, economic development policies, and regulations that impact the availability of fresh and h ealthy food in underserved areas. States Combating Food Insecurity Recognizing the significance of this problem, several US states have carved a path toward closing the gap in available healthy food. Check out how some of these US States are leading the charge. California's Healthy Retail Program California, a state known for its agricultural abundance, has implemented the Healthy Retail Program . This initiative aims to increase access to fresh, healthy foods in underserved communities by partnering with local corner stores and small markets. The program provides technical assistance and financial incentives to store owners, encouraging them to stock and promote nutritious food options. Pennsylvania's Fresh Food Financing Initiative Pennsylvania has taken a proactive approach to address food deserts through the Fresh Food Financing Initiative . This program provides grants and low-interest loans to encourage the development of grocery stores and fresh food retailers in underserved areas. By creating financial incentives, the state is working to make healthy food options more accessible. Illinois' Healthy Food Financing Act Illinois has enacted the Healthy Food Financing Act to support efforts to alleviate food deserts. This legislation establishes a fund to provide grants, loans, and technical assistance to grocery stores and retailers willing to expand into underserved communities. The goal is to make fresh, nutritious food available to all residents. New York's FreshConnect Program The state of New York has launched the FreshConnect Program , which aims to increase access to fresh, locally-grown foods in underserved communities. This initiative provides financial support and grants to farmers' markets, mobile markets, and food distribution programs that serve areas with limited access to fresh produce. Michigan's MI Healthy Food Access Campaign Michigan's MI Healthy Food Access Campaign is designed to address food deserts by improving access to fresh, healthy foods in underserved areas. This initiative leverages funding to support the development of new grocery stores, the renovation of existing stores, and the expansion of healthy food options in convenience stores and small markets. Ohio's Healthy Food Financing Initiative Ohio has implemented various initiatives, including the Healthy Food Financing Initiative , to encourage the development of grocery stores and fresh food retailers in underserved areas. Lousiana's Farmers Market Nutrition Program Louisiana has undertaken efforts to combat food deserts, including initiatives to support more local farmers' markets and improve access to fresh produce in underserved communities. It is also working to support seniors in eating nutritious foods from the farmer's markets. Maryland's Food Access and Nutrition Network Maryland has been involved in addressing food deserts through programs such as the Maryland Food Access and Nutrition Network, which focuses on improving access to healthy food for all residents. They have many initiatives that are in the beginning stages as well. Other states are offering grants , loans, technical assistance, and fostering partnerships with local businesses while working towards a healthier and more equitable food landscape. While progress is evident, continued advocacy and support for these initiatives are essential to eliminate food deserts and ensure everyone has access to nutritious food. Many US states are taking substantial steps to tackle the challenge of food deserts through a range of initiatives. From California's Healthy Retail Program to Pennsylvania's Fresh Food Financing Initiative, these state-level efforts are making fresh, healthy food more accessible to underserved communities. Farmbrite is dedicated to helping close the gap in food deserts we offer 65% off for non-profits. If you are a community member and wish to take advantage of a non-profit Farmbrite account, please reach out to us! Sources: The California Department of Public Health provides information on the Healthy Retail Program and its impact on improving food access in the state. California Department of Public Health - Healthy Retail Program The Reinvestment Fund, a partner in Pennsylvania's Fresh Food Financing Initiative, provides insights into the program's impact and success. The Reinvestment Fund - Fresh Food Financing Initiative Illinois Policy, a nonpartisan organization, provides information on the Healthy Food Financing Act and its impact on food access in Illinois. Illinois Policy - Healthy Food Financing Act New York State's official website offers detailed information about the FreshConnect Program and its impact on increasing food access in the state. New York State - FreshConnect Program The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development provides comprehensive information about the MI Healthy Food Access Campaign and its efforts to combat food deserts in the state. Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development - MI Healthy Food Access

Cattle come from diverse breeds that have been bred for many purposes; meat, dairy, and also just for fun. We often get asked how much is a dairy cow, how much feed costs for cattle, and how much does a cow cost. This guide will walk you through costs and what you might want to consider before you purchase your livestock for starting a cattle ranch, adding cattle to your existing operation or just looking for a few tips to help you in your next livestock purchase. A few things we will cover here are: Different types of cattle breeds Specifics on beef cattle breeds Different types of cattle types and age groups Cattle cost factors How to evaluate cattle health Estimating cattle costs and returns We hope this will give you the insight you need when starting a cattle herd or improving your cattle herd. Photo by Etienne Girardet Key Considerations When Buying Cattle There are a few key things to consider when getting started with your first cattle purchase. These factors will determine the types of cattle you might consider purchasing, the land and operation requirements, costs as well as the return on investment. Using cattle software or livestock management software can help you better track, manage, and understand your cattle expenses and break-even points. 1. What are your Goals for Your Cattle Operation? The first thing to consider is what are your goals. Are you raising cattle for beef, for dairy, for show, for stock sales, to support pasture regeneration, or just for fun? There are many considerations for each of those goals. Different breeds of cattle have different requirements for care and management, some have different temperaments and characteristics. This boils down to some breeds being better than others for different operations; meat production, milk production, and how they graze the land. Before heading to a cattle auction be sure to do your research and talk to local ranchers and/or breeders to get their opinions and ask all your questions. 2. Selecting the Right Cattle Breed Once you’ve figured out the goals for your cattle operation, the next step is to determine the right breeds of cows for your operation. There are many factors to consider when selecting a cattle breed. Specifically, you’ll need to consider the following: Production goals (Is that breed known for that characteristic.) Cost per cow Operating budget Breeds for your climate Land & grazing area requirements Feed, animal temperament & other operation costs Access to breed stock (via auction or other means) The key thing to remember is to have a plan, do your research, and make informed decisions. We can't know all your production goals and details, but we can share with you some information and breed considerations based on some common production goals. When selecting cattle breeds for beef you might want to consider a beef cattle breed that has a proven production history. Some of the most common beef cattle breeds (in the US) are: Black Angus Charolais Hereford Gelbvieh Simmental Red Angus Holstein Limousin A dairy might choose the breeds of cows that are well-known for their milk production rates, such as: Holstein Jersey Brown Swiss Guernsey Ayrshire Milking Shorthorn There are a ton of other breeds of cows that are suited for beef or dairy operations (or both), so be sure to do your research ( Check out this list of cattle breeds from OSU ). If you paid close attention might have noticed that Holstein shows up as both a dairy and cattle breed for beef. Holsteins are a solid dual-purpose breed that is a good choice for small operations or homesteaders who are looking for both milk and beef production. On the dairy side, you may be able to find miniature Jerseys that are smaller (so require less land) but still offer dependable milk production. Check out this post to learn more about different cattle breeds . What Types and Ages of Cattle Should you Buy? Depending on your production goals you may decide to buy a weaned calf or steer to use a feeder cattle, an intact or bred heifer to grow your herd, or a bull to expand your genetics. Each cow type has its purpose and the costs vary accordingly. Here are some basic cattle types to get you started. Cows A cow is a full-grown female animal that is at least a year old and has given birth to a calf. Calf Calves are baby cows. They are fairly docile and can be used for milk production, meat, and depending on their age, breeding. Bulls A bull is a mature intact (not castrated) male who is capable of breeding. Breeding is typically a bull's primary function in a cattle operation. They can be aggressive and are capable of causing injury to any animals and humans that they perceive as a threat. Many people choose to use artificial insemination (AI) for breeding instead of keeping and managing a bull. Heifer A heifer is a young female cow, who has not birthed her 1st calf. They can be bred, used for milk production, or sold for meat. A heifer is not typically bred until she is at least 14 months old. It is also common to purchase a bred heifer that will provide a new calf in the spring, is ‘certified’ as a viable breeder, and can then be bred again after a rest period. Steer A steer is a male animal who has been castrated. Typically they are more docile to handle than bulls and are most often used for meat production as feeder stock. Where to Buy Cattle? Once you’ve decided on the breed, age, gender, and number of animals you want to add to your operation it's time to get your trailer hitched and ready to load your new cattle. You’ll likely find various local sources in your area to acquire your livestock. Don’t make the mistake of buying a “bargain” cow that you find on Craigslist. Remember, that you get what you pay for, so if someone is selling cattle at well below market prices, there’s probably a reason. Most likely, there is some problem with the cow and you’ll end up paying the difference at the vet. Your best bet is to find a reliable source that is charging a fair price and acquire your cattle from them. You can find cattle for sale from a local farm or dairy, you can also find many on Craigslist or from a registered cattle breeder. Breeders offer detailed lineage information for certain traits for a specific breed so start there if you know what you're looking for. When buying from a farmer, be sure to visit the farm. If the farm is well taken care of and clean, there’s a good chance that the farmer takes good care of their animals. If stalls are overflowing with muck, there are flies or trash everywhere you might want to look elsewhere. The other common source to find cattle is at a cattle auction. There are hundreds of cattle auctions all over the world. You can potentially find some in your area here , searching in your area or checking with a local rancher, 4H , or FFA member. Check out our post before heading to your first cattle auction . What Makes a Good Cow? Before you buy, it’s important to learn how to spot a ‘good cow’. Image From: Wikimedia The animal should have bright, attentive eyes, and seem fairly content. Like any animal around new people, the cow may be nervous (especially younger heifers), but it shouldn’t be so nervous that it’s bolting away, charging, trying to hurt themselves, or breaking free of their pen. Tip: You can use a cow's body condition score to help you gauge the health of the animal. Be sure to understand the age of the cow. If it’s a heifer, ask if she’s been around a bull, especially if she is under a year old as she will likely have difficulties calving that young. How to Evaluate Cow Health: Eyes You can tell a lot about the health of a cow from its eyes. They should be bright and alert, with no discharge at the corners. This might indicate pinkeye. Ears Should be upright and move to any sound or flick rapidly to get rid of flies. Breathing Should be smooth and regular at rest. Panting is normal on warm days but the animal should not be coughing constantly. Nose Should be clean, with no discharge, and the muzzle should be moist. Mouth There should not be any drool or dripping saliva. If you notice slow or incomplete chewing there could be a problem with their teeth. Coat Healthy animals should have smooth shiny coats (it might be fuller and thicker in winter) but should be without bald spots. Udder Assuming you're not buying a bull or steer, the cow should have an udder. The udder should have 4 quarters and not look swollen and there should be no sign of pain when touched. The teats should show no sign of injury. If lactating, there should be no sign of blood in the milk, as this points to an udder infection. If buying a dairy cow, make sure that the cow has teats that will work with your milking setup. General Appearance The animal should be alert and aware of its surroundings and stand squarely on all four feet. It should hold its head high and confidently. The animal should look like its gender - male animals should look masculine; females should look feminine. If buying a steer, they should have both testicles removed. A healthy animal should have a straight back that is not swayed. If selected for a beef operation, cows and steers should have well-developed muscles and look 'beefy'. Temperament Animals should not seem overly stressed, mean, or wild. They should not run off if you walk among them. Animal disposition is especially important for dairy animals as you'll likely be handling them every day. The animal should appear calm. If the cow is regularly looking at or licking its flanks or kicking its underside this may indicate pain in that area. Movement The animal should walk easily with steady footing, where all four feet bear its weight. Watch out for irregular movements as these suggest pain in its feet or legs. When lying down a healthy animal should be able to get up quickly. Appetite The animal should eat and drink normally and have a full belly if food is available. A lack of appetite is a clear warning sign of a potential health problem. To get a real sense of what healthy animals should look like, you should look at lots of them. Check out pictures of show cows for different breeds of cows, click through cattle breed association websites, or talk to a local rancher and ask them to show you their best cows. Understand Your Budget and Operating Costs When you’re buying cattle, you’re making a significant investment, and that investment doesn’t stop when you leave the auction with a trailer full of steer or cows. You need to consider many factors to fully understand your expenses and where your break-even point is. To get started, think about and list all of the expenses that go into acquiring, raising, processing, and marketing your beef or milk. Some common factors to consider are: Animal cost What are your 1 time costs for purchasing the animal(s)? More on that below What are the costs to keep this animal? Feed costs How much hay or grain feed will you need to provide when the animal is not on pasture? Estimate your average monthly hay needs and cost Vet expenses Vet expenses can be unpredictable and vary depending on if we’re talking about a pregnant cow or a steer. You should assume a range of $60-100+/year for the vet costs for each head of cattle that you're managing. You can find more details on estimated average cattle veterinarian costs here . Breeding fees Whether you’re breeding using natural service or artificial insemination (AI) you’ll need to account for the associated costs. If choosing Natural Service, you’ll either need to have a bull on hand and assume all the costs associated with that bull or pay for a visit from a bull. On average the cost for a cow pregnancy using artificial insemination is $82 (including technician fees, equipment, and semen). Compare costs for siring calves between AI and Natural Service Breed association fees (if a registered breed) If you’re raising a registered herd you may want to keep your animal records updated with the breed association site. Typically you’ll pay an annual (or lifetime fee) to join the relevant association. You can also expect to pay about $15-50/animal that you register with the association. You can find information about various cattle associations here Equipment, facility, and maintenance costs Equipment, facility, and maintenance costs vary widely depending on your operation and the level of modernization you’ve implemented. Obviously it’s more complicated and costly to start and run a dairy than other cattle operations. Your cost will also vary based on whether you’re renting or owning all the equipment. A safe bet is to assume $100-150/animal for a typical beef operation. Loss in stock due to culling or disease Losses of cows and calves to disease, birthing complications, predators, or due to culling is an unfortunate aspect of any cattle operation. As such you need to plan for, and budget for an account for an expected loss rate of cattle due to various reasons. A study conducted by the USDA through the National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) , looked at mortality data across various operations. In 2016 dairies averaged a total death percentage of 3.1% for cattle over 500 pounds with calf losses averaging 6.7%. Beef producers reported an average loss of only 1.8%, with calf losses averaging 5.5%. Labor costs Like so many other costs, labor varies dramatically based on your operation and location. More complex operations like dairies require a different skill set than cow/calf operations. Also depending on the number of head you can manage your cost/cow gets cheaper. For a typical beef producer labor costs per cow average about $200. Land costs & real estate taxes Do you own your land or are you leasing it? Either way, you’ll need to factor into your business plan your land and real estate tax costs. Just like a dairy facility and equipment costs, land is often considered the cost of doing business (COGS), but when determining your margin and profit per animal it’s useful to know your overall costs and how to allocate those per head. Example Cost Summary Per Cow Item Cost/Cow Steer (600lb) Auction Cost $1,200 Hay Costs (90 days, remainder on pasture) $340 ​Grain Costs (1,350 lbs) $225 ​Vet Fees ​$80 Equipment Costs $120 ​Labor Costs ​$200 ​Cost of Land ​$0 Real Estate Taxes ​$10 Total $2,175 These are obviously very rough ballpark estimates, but by knowing what the costs are we can now determine what we need to make in order to make a profit on this animal. That’s a topic for another day, but you can learn more about profitable cattle marketing from this report by the University of Georgia Extension Office or from the University of California Sample Cost for Beef report . Keeping detailed cattle records and tracking your cattle expenses with a spreadsheet of farm accounting software can help more easily see where you're wasting money and what your return needs to be to see a profit. How much does a cow cost to buy? Let’s take a look at the variable cost of acquiring a new cow. Cattle prices vary widely so it is hard to provide exact numbers for what you will pay. At the 2021 Cattle Industry Convention, Kevin Good, CattleFax 's VP of Industry Relations and Analysis, shared an outlook for cattle prices in 2022. Mr. Good projected the following average prices for 2022: Fed Steer price: $135/cwt. 800-pound Steer price: $165/cwt. 550-pound Steer price: $200/cwt. Utility Cows price: $70/cwt. Bred Cows price: $1,750/cwt (cwt = hundredweight. One cwt is equal to 100 pounds by weight. So, an 800-pound steer might cost $1,320) Average prices vary based on the weight at the time that the animal is sold and will vary in different areas, so you will likely pay more or less than these estimates. Summary As you can see there are a lot of factors that go into the costs of starting and operating a cattle operation. While it can seem overwhelming to consider all of these factors, just like any other business you need to develop a clear business plan, understand and estimate your fixed and variable costs, understand your target market and market prices, and most importantly keep track of your operation’s income and expenses. Having a clear business plan and keeping detailed records will help you stay on top of the profitability of your business and avoid potential problems. If you need help keeping track of your cattle herd's health, performance, or yield records check out Farmbrite's all-in-one cattle record-keeping and management software . This article was written by our knowledgeable staff of farmers and ranchers at Farmbrite. Thanks for reading and Happy Farming/Ranching!

If you’re wondering how to improve the efficiency of your farm, there are some simple things you can do to help your business grow. There are some key strategies that you should implement to be more organized and increase efficiency in your business. Whether you're looking for small farm management software or large scale, here are some key tips for successful farm management: Farm Management Tips and Tricks for Running a Successful Farm Operation Farm management is the operational aspect of farming. It includes strategic planning and the implementation of decisions about resource usage on your farm. Let's run down the list of things to do today to improve. Identify your goals Good farm management starts with identifying your goals. When setting goals, be ambitious but realistic — this isn't an excuse to set yourself up for failure! If your goal is unrealistic, it is less likely to be achieved, and that is the opposite of motivating. It’s always important to define the problem before starting on a solution. You should also ask yourself: What does success look like? In what ways will this change my life and my farm/business? A good model to follow when setting goals is the SMART method. This means that your goals should be: Specific - Your goal should define the what and why of your desired outcome. Measurable - Your goal will only be meaningful if it can be measured, so make sure you have a way to measure progress toward reaching that goal. Achievable - Your goal should be achievable within a reasonable amount of time. Realistic - Asking yourself whether something is possible helps ensure that it's also reasonable; don't set yourself up for disappointment by setting unrealistic expectations. Time-bound - Many things in life require patience, and both agriculture and farm management are among them. Find out when you expect to accomplish this specific task or meet this particular milestone and mark down the date when you achieved those results either by writing down any related milestones or by placing a calendar reminder on an upcoming date. Another aspect to keep in mind is sustainability. If your goal isn't sustainable, then it will be impossible to measure whether or not you've reached it. Understand your farm and your competition You know the size and location of your farm. After all, you likely live and work there on a daily basis. But what do you know about your competition? Knowing the size, location, and type of farm you're managing as well as your competition will help you better understand your role in the local farm network. Do your research If possible, visit farms in your area that are similar in size, management style and production focus. Look at other producers' websites or social media accounts to see what they're up to. You can also attend trade shows where producers gather together to share information about trends in their industry (or ask them directly). Know the market for your products. Figure out what kind of yield you need in order for your product(s) to be profitable enough for consumers—and then decide whether growing those crops makes sense given their land use requirements versus other options like livestock production or cash crops such as corn or soybeans (which might require less labor). Know the regulations If you're selling a product that has to comply with any regulation, it's important to know what those requirements are. For example, if your farm will produce eggs that go into grocery stores, you'll need to be licensed by the USDA and follow their guidelines for egg production. Farm planning A farm plan is a living document that enables you to identify and prioritize your goals, as well as develop a strategy for achieving those goals. The process of creating the plan is part of the learning process. It helps you determine what needs to be done on your farm and what resources are required to achieve those goals. The more detail you put into it, the more effective it will be in helping guide all aspects of your business operation. A good farm planning tool will include several elements, such as: Information about current conditions on the farm An outline for f uture changes Expectations for profitability Costs involved with completing tasks Labor needs and availability Time estimates associated with various stages in production (e.g., planting crops) Equipment requirements (e.g., tractor or plow) Overall, farm planning is a great way to take a look at the big picture and guide all aspects of your business. It allows you to assess where you are currently at, as well as plan for the future. Invest in a farm management software A farm management software like FarmBrite can help you manage your farming business efficiently and profitably. Farm management software can help you plan better, implement practices quickly and see what works — and what doesn’t. You can even compare results over time to spot trends in productivity and costs to help you make smart decisions about your farm’s future. Most farm management software is easy to use and will help you manage your farm business for maximum efficiency and profit. If you’ve ever wanted to make the most of your land and make better business decisions, try out a farm management software. You’ll know exactly where your profit margins are and how to optimize your business. Crop and livestock planning Another critical component of farm management is crop and livestock planning. Planning helps you to meet your goals, make decisions, implement those decisions, review your decisions and learn from mistakes. Planning includes setting goals for the farm and determining how much to plant or raise based on market conditions and available resources (e.g., land , labor). It also involves evaluating whether the current level of production is adequate for meeting these goals or if more should be produced in order to meet them better. Planning is important because it allows you to: Determine how much to plant or raise based on market conditions and available resources (e.g., land, labor). Evaluate whether the current level of production is adequate for meeting your goals or if more should be produced in order to meet them better. Determine if production goals are being met. Adjust the amount of production based on market conditions and available resources (e.g., land, labor). Identify whether changes in the amount of production would improve your ability to meet your goals. Financial planning As a farmer, you know your land, crops, and animals inside and out. Likewise, it’s important to have a solid grasp on your financial situation. Financial planning is the foundation of all farm management. To successfully manage your farm, you must know how much money is coming in and going out. You must also be aware of how much money you need to cover expenses and how much money can be used for reinvestment and debt payment. Your farm is an important investment, so you should learn how to manage your assets. Learn how to get the most out of the equipment that you have. Farm financial planning is a continuous process that should be done at least annually, but ideally on a monthly basis. It starts with a thorough analysis of your farm’s financial situation and ends with developing and implementing strategies to improve it. A farm financial plan is a document that helps you manage your business and ensure it has a sound financial foundation. It should be prepared by an accountant or financial planner who understands agriculture and can identify the unique aspects of your operation. How do you find the key to successful farm management? By following the above steps you will be on the road to organizing and planning your farm. Of course, farming is a challenging career path, but as you know it is rewarding. There are many ways to farm and many different aspects to take into consideration when operating your farm, including finances, technology, crops and livestock. By implementing practices like farm management software, financial planning, and competitor research, you can optimize your farm business. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and try some of these techniques in your own farm business! Courtney Garrett is a freelance writer and editor traveling the world as a digital nomad. She earned her Bachelor of Animal Science with a specialization in Livestock Science and Management in 2019, and has worked with dairy cattle, sheep, goats, dogs, chickens, and more over the past 10 years. When not writing, she enjoys horseback riding, swimming, and taking walks with her Havanese puppy, Ella.

How to pick the best farm management software for your farm Like many industries, farmers are surrounded and inundated with technology that promises to offer a solution to help them. With so many choices it's easy for farmers to find themselves overwhelmed with choices of farm software these days. With so many choices how do you make the right one so you only move your data once? First let's define what we mean when we talk about Farm Management Software. What is Farm Management Software? Farm Management Software (FMS) are a category of software that is designed to help farmers to plan, track, manage and run their businesses more effectively. It can help you keep track of your crops, treatments, amendments and livestock, reporting data and generating reports and alerts that tell you when to harvest or move animals to different pastures. Farm Management Software (FMS) is a designed to help farmers with their daily tasks. It's a comprehensive solution that covers many different aspects of the farming business, such as financial visibility & reporting, understanding ROI, managing work, keeping track of inventory, crop planning and monitoring, customer relationship management (CRM), and more. FMS differs from farm accounting software because they are more comprehensive and typically provide a complete and holistic view of your business and can be thought of as an Enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for agricultural businesses. Farm software is business software Your farm is a business and it deserves software that can help you make real-time informed business decisions about where to invest and where to scale back. Good farm management software should do more than just keep notes and records, it should be a business tool to help you run a more efficient and profitable agribusiness. Read more about Farm Management Software . What are key farm management software features There are many different types of farming software, some that are focussed on specific types of producers or growers (cattle, commodities, etc) and others they provide a broad generalized set of features that can be applicable to many different types of farmers. Key farm management software features: Record keeping & traceability features Crop planning, growth and yield tracking Farm mapping / Field mapping and boundaries (also key for organic certifications) Farm scheduling, task and work management Geotag notes and activities Yield projections, estimates and tracking Field and crop production rates (harvests and yields) Field & crop activities (this is critical for a successful agricultural business and any organic certification) - Weeding, fertilizing, pesticides, etc. Financial health and reporting including ROI/break-even analysis Expenses and income (general profit and loss) for fields, crops, and other ventures Soil and crop treatment tracking Compliance reporting Crop loss and loss reason (disease, pests, etc) Soil health monitoring (soil sample / nutrient tracking) Inventory tracking and warehouse management Climate and environmental tracking Historic weather reporting Equipment (tractors, etc) service records, operating costs, etc. Contact and vendor records Order and sales management eCommerce and online sales Reporting and analytics Store files and photos Animal breeding and genealogy Animal health & treatment records - vaccines, deworming, neutering, etc Animal growth and production tracking Livestock grazing planning and management Ability to integrate with other systems Because farm management software often cover a broad category of needs and features it can sometimes feel overwhelming to understand each of these areas. However, a good farm management system will integrate all of these features in an easy to use and understand way so that you can get the most out of them to help your business. Top questions to ask when picking farm management software 1. What are your key goals for your business? When selecting any new tool it's important to start by thinking about what you are trying to accomplish and how that tool can help you, farm management software is no different. Start by thinking listing the key challenges you're trying to solve or areas of your business you're trying to improve. Review the features that are available, watch demos, start a trial and evaluate how those features can help you accomplish your goals. 2. Are you managing a diverse operation? Many farm management software systems on the market are focussed on single species or single enterprise operations. Are you growing crops and raising livestock? Do you have multi-species of animals or crops you're caring for? If you are growing or raising more than one product on your farm be sure that the system can support your needs. Additionally, if you're considering diversifying your operation, be sure the farm software can scale with you. 3. Are you raising livestock? If you're raising and managing livestock be sure that the system supports the types of animals you are raising and that it can provide you with the insight you need to make breeding, culling and other critical management decisions. Are you raising multi-species of animals on a diverse farm or doing multi-species grazing? Be sure the farm software can handle your business needs without adding extra overhead and complexity. 4. Is the farm software easy to use? There are many ways to evaluate this. Here are a few questions to consider: Is the system easy and intuitive for you and your team? Is the company easy to get a hold of an responsive to questions? Does the software get good reviews and appear to be modern and well built? Can you get your data out easily? Is the software being active maintained, improved and updated? Can you access your data from anywhere? Do they offer a free trial? Is it set up in a way that is customer focused? Most importantly, can you see yourself spending time working with the software and it helping you with your goals? 5. Does this company really understand your needs as a farmer? Many companies in this industry do not come from a farming background. So, how do they know what farmers need? Do they listen to their customers and get regular feedback from them? Do you feel confident they understand your needs and business? 6. Do you have specific reporting or compliance needs? You may have specific data that you rely on to run your business. Does the farm management system support that and make it easy to access? Do you have specific reports you need for accounting, taxes, compliance, organic certifications, carbon credits, etc? Think about what data you need to use to accomplish your goals and run your business and make sure the system can help you capture and report on that data. 7. What key features are critical vs nice to have? With so many different features of farm management software it can feel a bit overwhelming to decide what you need, what your don't and what's nice to have. Remember that not every tool solves every problem and software is no different. Depending on the complexity or depths of your needs certain software products maybe provide better feature sets. Additionally, do you want a single farm management software platform for your farm or do you already have other apps you work with that are working for you. For example, if you have an accounting app, e-commerce or scheduling app that you love and is working for you stick with it and look for how it can integrate with and improve the value of your other farm data. 8. Can you easily transfer or upload your existing data? You likely have existing records for your farm. These maybe in spreadsheets or in notebooks. Do you want to input or upload your existing farm data? Does the farm management software provide tools to make this easy? Do they offer free support and resource to help get your existing data into their system? 9. What is your budget? Determine a reasonable price that your are willing to pay. In my opinion one of the best ways to think about what this for your business is to look at the benefits and improvements that the software and bring to your business and translate that into a cost or value for you. For example, how much time will the software save you each month and how much is your time worth? How can the software help increase your farm and team's efficiency and production and what's the at worth? Note: Pay attention to hidden fees and costs that farm software developers may have and consider how these may impact your cost. Some of these costs may be things like - extra cost per user, animals, acreage, etc and hidden fees for support or features. 10. Do you need to integrate your farm data with other software systems? You may have other apps or software you are using on your farm. Do you want to connect the data from these to your farm data? Do you want to build workflows or automated processes when your data changes? If this is important to you you should look to see if the the farm management software offers the ability to integrate with other systems and/or provides programatic access to your data via and API and offer resources and support to help you connect everything. How to choose software for your farm There are a wide variety of different farm management software systems on the market today. In our experience the right software really depends on the type of operation you are running, how much automation you may or may not have in place, you’re level of experience with farm planning, management, or record keeping software and what’s important to your business. Some farm management systems focus on niche needs and others have solutions that are designed for a specific scale of operations. For example, features like automated tracking and reporting integrated into IOT devices or tractors. Other systems offer a broader set of features that can help with your whole agriculture business. For example, farm accounting capabilities, livestock tracking & genealogy, grazing management, tractor and equipment record keeping, CSA management, etc. At the end of the day I would recommend taking a few different software solutions for a test drive. Look for an online solution that offers you a free no hassle trial so you can really try it out. See what makes the most sense for your operation and is easy to get started with and use. Farm software should support your business needs Remember that a good farm management system should help your business accomplish it's goals where that's be more efficient, productive and profitable and it should be able to provide you insight into what is working and not working for you. What is Farmbrite's farm management software? We're an all-in-one farm software platform We’ve designed it to be different from other farm management systems out there as it provides a set of solutions to help you get organized: Crop tracking and planning Manage farm scheduling, activities and tasks Manage all your livestock needs (record keeping, expenses & production reporting, grazing management, genealogy, breeding, etc) Flexible and customizable to meet the needs or all kinds of operations and producers Accounting and Schedule F reporting eCommerce platform Keep detailed records for all your inventory, equipment and customers And more farm management features ... Our goal is to help get farmers better organized, keep better records, manage their resources, track production and identify trends to gain valuable insights and increase efficiency and profits. Farmbrite was rated as the " Best farm management software overall " by crm.org, but don't just take their word for it, give Farmbrite a try . If you have questions about finding the right software for your farm, contact us , we'd be happy to help - even if we're not the right fit for you.

So you want to have livestock, but you don't have a lot of acreage. No worries. There are lots of types of farm animals that work for a small acreage. In this post, we'll cover a few farm animals that you might want to consider if you're pressed for space. Determining Your Farm's Purpose and Resources Determining your farm's purpose and resources is the first crucial step in planning a successful small farm. Begin by defining your primary goals—whether you want to raise animals for personal consumption, such as eggs, milk, meat, or lawnmowers, or for commercial purposes like selling products to local markets. Understanding your land’s resources is equally important. Assess the size of your farm, the availability of pasture, water sources, and shelter options, as well as your budget for feed, infrastructure, and veterinary care. Matching your goals with the farm's physical and financial capacities will help you choose the right animals and management practices for sustainable growth. Our Recommendations for Animals for Small Farms: Pekin duck Ducks are great for a small farm. They are well-tempered, produce wonderful eggs and they can also be raised as meat animals. On average Pekin ducks are about 10 lbs so they are too heavy to fly which makes them ideal for free range. They are fast growers and at around 6-9 weeks are big enough to eat. They are fair layers and will lay an average of 140 eggs per year. All ducks need a clean source of water to stay healthy and happy so be sure that you provide them with a reliable clean source. Learn more about getting started with and raising Pekin ducks . Quail The quail is a small, pretty bird. They get to be an average of 3.5 ounces. They lay small, speckled eggs and are primarily table birds but you might also sell the fertilized eggs for others to hatch locally. You can have a fair amount of quail since they are so small. Quail are also known to be fairly hardy birds so they don't tend to get sick often. As a specialty bird, you might be able to find a local chef to sell directly to and make a nice profit. Rabbits Small and a great option for small spaces. There are many options to choose from when deciding on a breed. Rabbits give birth to multiple offspring (up to 15 in 4-6 weeks) and grow fast, so be sure to plan to provide enough room for them. Raising rabbits for meat is most common, but some rabbits are also raised for fiber or to sell for stock so others can raise rabbits. Chickens This is a pretty standard animal to put on this list and definitely the gateway animal to farming. Chickens are easy to find at your local feed store, by hatching chickens yourself, or by finding other specialty birds locally. You can raise chickens for meat or eggs or both. Selling chicken eggs can be relatively easy and profitable. They are very easy to care for just remember to protect them from predators.  Raising chickens for meat or eggs can also provide some extra income for your small farm without a lot of overhead. Check out these chicken breeds for colorful egg production. Goats There are many breeds of goats to choose from but if you don't have a lot of space you might want to consider Nigerian dwarf goats. They are small in stature, have a sweet disposition, and are easy to milk. Just like all the other animals on this list, this is another breed that you will need to protect from predators. Goats are typically easygoing, friendly, and curious animals. They are excellent foragers and produce high-quality milk that can be used for milk, cheese, and soaps. Breeding goats can also be a profitable side business for your farm. Pigs There are many options for breeds of pigs. One breed in particular is Berkshire pigs. They are both small and versatile. Pigs can be a great addition to your small farm. Not only are they relatively easy to keep they can also be a helpful ally in tilling fields. Learn more about raising pigs for meat . Keeping Bees Bees are an excellent addition to any farm. You can have multiple hives in a small space, they require little maintenance, and provide honey which is often in high demand at farmer's markets. Bees are an outstanding helper with pollinating around the farm as well. Learn about getting started beekeeping Miniature Cows for Small Farms There are a ton of different breeds of cows that can be a good addition to your farm if you have the space. Depending on your land, miniature cows might be a good option, assuming that you have 2 acres or more. Miniature cows need at least 2 acres to utilize rotational grazing . Since these cows are smaller, about half the size, they consume about 1/2 the amount of resources of a standard-sized cow. Cows are versatile and can used for breeding, meat, or milk. Learn about buying cattle for your small farm. Ducks and Other Poultry There are a variety of other types of poultry and breeds of birds that might be a good fit for your farm - from ducks to geese to turkeys to pheasants and even peacocks. Each poultry type has different forage and environmental needs, so do your research first to make sure you can provide them with a happy home. How many Farm Animals per acre? Curious about how many animals you can keep per acre. The number can vary depending on different factors, like your climate, terrain, property zoning, etc. Here are some ballpark numbers of animals per acre. Horses : One to two acres per horse Beef cattle : One to two acres per beef cow Dairy cattle : One to two acres per cow Goat : 6-8 goats per acre Sheep : 6-10 sheep per acre if grazing Pigs : 12-14 sows per acre Chickens : Up to 500 birds per acre if grazing them in a chicken tractor The best small animals for a small farm are those that are low-maintenance, versatile, and suited to your farm’s space and resources. There are many to choose from and it all depends on how much time and resources you want to get out of them. The animals we've suggested offer a range of benefits while being manageable on smaller plots of land. We hope this has been helpful to you as you decide to bring on new types of animals on your farm. If you need help keeping track of your livestock take a look at our farm management software, Farmbrite . We help farms of all sizes keep track of tasks, livestock, crops, inventory, accounting, e-commerce, and more. Give it a try for free for 14 days.

The winter is a great time to reflect on the growing season, plan for the upcoming season, take some much-needed downtime, and maybe do some research/reading. Since we're all looking for ideas to make our farms better I thought we would review. a few books on farming. For those interested in small farming, a wealth of insightful books can provide both inspiration and practical guidance. Some offer efficient and profitable farming techniques, while others emphasize sustainable practices that can be implemented on a small scale. These books provide a solid foundation in both the theory and practice of small farming and cater to various interests and approaches. Here are our top picks for farming books. We've chosen this collection to offer a wide range of ideas and farming practices; some are about tilling, some are about the business side of farming and others just have sound advice to get you started. Here is our list of the top farming books for small-scale farmers 1) You Can Farm By Joel Salatin This book, written by Joel Salatin, founder of Polyface Farms gives the rundown of how to be successful and profitable in a small farm business, aptly subtitled " The Entrepreneur's Guide to Start & Succeed in a Farming Enterprise. " There are many ideas that can help you even if you aren't selling at the market. 2) The Market Garden By Jean-Martin Fortier Micro-farming is a real thing. Read about how you can make a living on 1.5 acres and feed more than 200 families. This book breaks down everything you need to know to get started and grow a micro-farm. They talk about low-tech options but high yield.  It is a great read with pictures, checklists, and many innovative ideas. Additionally, the Market Gardener Institute offers courses for small farms to help you get started. 3) The Lean Farm By Ben Hartman Working smarter, not harder is the key takeaway from this book. Hartman is farming on just 1 acre and using innovative and progressive farming techniques which he talks about in this book. He is also the founder of Clay Bottom Farm and provides resources and training for those interested in Lean Farming. He is helping to bring farming to a new generation of farmers. 4) Dirt to Soil By Gabe Brown The soil is the star of this book. Through his family trials, he has found some innovative solutions to some of the pressing agricultural challenges we come up against today.  The question asked here is,  "How can we get more life from the land?" 5) The Resilient Farm and Homestead By Ben Falk A land designer and site developer took some land that would not conventionally be used for farming and made it thrive. He has a team of researchers and this book gives loads of helpful information and strategies on his work. You'll find gravity-fed water systems, site design, agroforestry, fertility management, and more. 6) Start Your Farm: The Authoritative Guide to Becoming a Sustainable 21st-Century Farm By Forrest Pritchard & Ellen Polishuk Learn how to start a farm in the 21st century with a small to medium-sized acreage. This book gives real examples and to-dos for aspiring farmers out there. It takes this to the business side of farming which you will need to make your way. It also talks about the dos and don'ts. It's an easy read and one you should pick up if you're looking into getting into farming. 7) The Organic No-Till Farming Revolution: High Production Methods for Small-Scale Farmers By Andrew Mefferd Increasingly more farmers are moving toward low-till or no-till farming practices. This book provides real-life no-till stories and examples brought to you in a conversational style. If you're looking into tillage reduction, and sustainable growing styles check out this book. This isn't the definitive list but as a short list to get you started, the 7 books mentioned above will serve you well. But there are so many other books that add value to learning about farming. "Farming While Black" by Leah Penniman not only shares valuable agricultural knowledge but also addresses issues of land access and social justice in farming and "Gaia's Garden" by Toby Hemenway introduces readers to permaculture principles, promoting a harmonious relationship with nature. We can't name them all here but some so many other farmers have shared their stories and knowledge about farming. Collectively, these books offer a blend of hands-on advice, philosophical insights, and innovative strategies, making them essential reads for anyone looking to cultivate a successful small farm. Have a great book or resource that has helped you, we'd love to hear from you . If you'd like to learn about how Farmbrite can help you get started farming take a look here.

Some fruit and vegetables benefit from storage in the refrigerator, while others benefit from storage at room temperature. How do you store freshly harvested vegetables for the coming winter? We will dive in and explain a few methods for keeping your vegetables fresh. Fruit and Vegetable Storage Conditions to Think About: The place you keep your vegetables is important. There are key environments for each type of vegetable. It can make or break how long your food will last. Here are some key factors to consider. 1. Light Do you keep them in the absolute dark? Or will they be ok on the counter or in a bright spot? At the end of this article, there are some storage suggestions for the best light for storing different types of vegetables and fruit. 2. Temperature Keeping your vegetables in a temperature-controlled place like the refrigerator, freezer or just a cool place like a root cellar is optimal for many types of vegetables. Freezing vegetables at home is a fast and easy way to preserve nutrients and enjoy the taste of summer vegetables all year long. Note: Freezing is not recommended for artichokes, Belgian endives, eggplant, lettuce greens, potatoes (other than mashed), radishes, sprouts, and sweet potatoes. 3. Curing and preserving fruits and vegetables Not all vegetables can just be put away. Some vegetables need to cure like winter squash, onions, and garlic. These vegetables will be kept for quite a long time if cured and stored in the right environment. Here are some tips on curing your vegetables . You also might consider drying. You can do this by hang-drying your vegetable, flower, or herbs. Or you can dehydrate them. Depending on the plant you will want to research and experiment with how long to dry them. You will want to have good airflow and a dark space. And depending on the plant you may want them to be in a cool or hot environment. We've outlined a few ways to cure your vegetables in the sections below. There's always canning. We could write a whole article about preserving foods by canning. There are so many great recipes out there and the sky's the limit on recipes to try. Every year we try something new. Here is a link to one of our favorites for candied jalapeños, which we call cowboy candy around here. If you're looking for other recipes take a look over at Ball. (We would love to hear about your favorites! Send us an email.) You just have to eat some vegetables right away because they don't store well but here are some recipes to liven up your vegetables . Preserving food has been done for as long as people have been hungry and realize maybe you could make this last. Go old-school by salting, smoking (for meat), or fermenting. Here is an article about using salt while fermenting your vegetables . How to store vegetables Each type of vegetable will have its own requirements. You may have tried to put tomatoes in the refrigerator and then when you wanted to eat them, found they were tasteless. Here are some recommendations on how to store your vegetables. Not all vegetables can be kept for long periods of time. In these situations, it is good to know how to keep them fresh for as long as you can. Here are some tips on keeping these foods that have a shorter shelf life. Storing Root vegetables Root vegetables store very well in many climates if you keep them in the right conditions. Your root vegetables will store the longest if kept at 32-40 degrees F and 95% humidity. You can keep them in sand too. Just don't wash them as that can lead to mildew and rotting. One of the biggest challenge to keeping vegetables through the winter is finding a cool, dark, dry place that doesn’t freeze. In milder climates, Depending on your average temperature during this time, having a root cellar, storage box or unheated garage might be just the place to store your harvest. Just make sure that it is in a place that can't be reached by mice or other pests. Produce that does best in cold, moist storage includes Apples (6-8 weeks, unwashed) Asparagus (3-4 days) Beets (2-3 weeks) Blackberries (2-3 days) Blueberries (5-10 days) Broccoli (3-5 days) Brussels Spouts (3-5 days) Cabbage (1 week) Carrots (3-4 weeks) Cauliflower (1 week) Celery (1-2 weeks or a month or more if you wrap it in tin foil) Citrus fruit: Lemon, lime, orange (3-4 weeks) Eggplant (5-7 days) Grapes (up to 3 weeks) Lettuce (1 week) Mushrooms (4-7 days) Parsnips (3-4 weeks) Peas (3-5 days) Peppers (1-2 weeks) Rutabaga (2-3 weeks) Spinach (3-5 days) Summer squash (4-5 days) Note: A word about leafy green storage: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and more Leafy greens will only store for a short time. They are often susceptible to moisture loss and will wilt quickly. They also stay fresh longer if wrapped and then refrigerated. Wrap them with a towel or paper towel and store them in a sealed airtight bag or container to maintain humidity and freshness. Best in cold, dry storage Garlic ( 2-3 months) Wait until the garlic stalks fall over at the end of the growing season. Pull the bulbs and lay them out in a dry, warm place to cure. Once cured, braid heads of garlic together. Onions (2-3 months) When stalks are ready to fall over in the late summer or fall your onions are ready to harvest. Cure them in a dry, warm spot (about 75-85 degrees F). Trim stalks and store in a cool, dark, dry (50-60 degrees F). Use any onions that still have green at the center of the stalk as they won't keep for long in storage. For longer onion storage choose stronger flavored onions rather than sweet onion varieties. Best in warm, dry conditions Hot peppers (2-3 weeks) Pumpkins (8-12 weeks) Winter squash (8-12 weeks) Sweet potatoes (3-5 weeks) Best if stored in a cool dry place that isn't your refrigerator Tomatoes (7-14 days) Bananas (5-7 days) Potatoes (2-3 months) Storing potatoes After harvest rub off any dirt. Don't wash them as that can add too much moisture. Lay the potatoes out to cure in a cool dry, dark spot. The temperature should be about 50-60 degrees F. Let them stay here for about 2 weeks. This process allows the skin to toughen and helps them keep longer. For long-term storage, place them in a well-ventilated, cool, dark, dry area where the temperature won't go below freezing or above about 60 degrees F. Keep the light out so they don't sprout. Now we've talked about different ways of storing fruits and vegetables. There are going to be times when you just have too much to store or use now. Then there's always canning but we'll save that for another post. We hope this post has given you some new ideas on how to store your fruits and vegetables. This article was written by our farmer and rancher staff at Farmbrite. Like little squirrels, we work every year to preserve the season longer and put up as much as we can. Happy harvest!

Meat rabbits are an easy, low-maintenance, and pound-for-pound, extremely productive livestock to add to a farm operation. Rabbits don’t need much space, are quick to multiply, and produce low-fat, high-quality white meat similar to chicken. Rabbits also create a valuable secondary product of rabbit manure that can be sold or utilized in a fertilizer program for farm crops. Like any project on the farm, a successful rabbit meat enterprise is the result of research, careful planning, a proper set-up and an understanding of the husbandry needs for raising rabbits and potential market outlets for rabbit meat. Start with Quality Stock The number one determining factor for success in a commercial rabbit meat breeding program is the quality of the rabbit stock. A healthy “trio” or rabbits — two does and one buck — appropriate for meat production can produce up to 600 pounds of meat a year. Sought-after ‘fryer” quality rabbit meats — rabbits that dress out at least 1.5 pounds and typically not more than 3.5 pounds — can be ready as quickly as eight weeks after birth. Good quality, healthy does can produce litters of anywhere from 10 to 20 kits every three months. But, start with the wrong breed or unhealthy stock and your meat rabbit enterprise will be an exercise in frustration with young kits taking many more weeks to reach appropriate slaughter weight. Many rabbit breeds and lots of backyard rabbit raisers sell extra breeding stock “meat rabbits” on local sales groups. However, there is a world of difference between commercial meat rabbits and a motley mix that likely includes pet rabbit breeds (like Holland Lops). Commercial quality meat rabbit breeds were explicitly selected for rapid growth, hardiness, and carcass quality. Californian and New Zealand White rabbits are the most common rabbit breeds used in meat production programs. Good health is vital too. So before purchasing, learn how to inspect a new rabbit and spot any potential health issues. A “proven” trio (that has already produced a litter) is ideal to start with for a new enterprise, but keep in mind that does only produce litters regularly for a few years. Otherwise, purchase kits that are 12 weeks or older. You may find kits sold younger than that, but kits weaned and moved too young from their original home have a much higher likelihood of suffering from stress-related enteritis (diarrhea) and dying. Proper Housing is Key to Success with Rabbit Production There are two main schools of thought for rabbit housing — keeping rabbits separated in cages raised off the ground Or housing rabbits in more natural “colony” style set-ups. Commercial meat production is almost always in cages, as the feed and health of the rabbits can be precisely controlled and disease and pest issues avoided. Bucks and does will have individual cages, only put together for brief breeding intervals. Does with litters kept in a separate, larger cage. A large grow-out pen is useful for kits weaned from their mothers (typically around six weeks) in the final grow-out weeks before they reach butcher weight. Colony-style set-ups allow rabbits to live in a large area together, often on the ground. Does and bucks are typically kept together and allowed to breed at will. While colony-style set-ups are simple, with less individual cage cleaning and feeding required, the quality of the rabbits is typically hard to maintain. Colony-style raising encourages the spread of diseases and worm infestations from contact with the soil and between rabbits. Young does will often be bred when they are too young, or mature does will be bred too frequently (rabbits can be impregnated again immediately after birthing a litter). Bucks (and even does) may fight in a colony set-up, injuring each other. An alternative for many in meat rabbit production is using a ‘rabbit tractor’ for grow-outs. The young rabbits are housed together (before they are old enough to breed) and frequently moved through a pasture in a portable cage yet offered high-quality feed to encourage rapid growth to butcher weight. Feeding Your Meat Rabbits Feeding rabbits is another hotly debated issue in meat rabbit production. Most commercial meat rabbitries rely on complete pellets, typically alfalfa-based, with high protein rates (usually around 18% protein or more). A good quality pellet includes all the minerals and nutrients rabbits need, and while hay can be offered, it is not required. Some rabbit owners prefer to feed their rabbits a mix of natural ingredients and save on pellet costs. For example, they may feed oats, BOSS (black oil sunflower seeds), hay and fresh vegetables, and greens. However, it is much harder to control growth rates when following a free-feeding system for rabbits. Also, rabbits have very sensitive digestive tracts and changes in what they eat can quickly lead to blockages and diarrhea that will rapidly kill them. Learning Basic Rabbit Medicine Meat rabbits are high-production, quick turn-around livestock for a farm. But, individually, rabbits don’t hold much value (a good quality meat rabbit slated for breeding stock might be worth $30 to $60). So, commercial rabbit owners learn to do much of their veterinary care. It doesn’t make financial sense to take sick meat rabbits to a vet. If you are new to rabbit raising, read and research about the most common health-related rabbit issues. Intestinal blockages, mites, worms, abscesses, and genital diseases are relatively easily treated. There are a few contagious viruses that you want to avoid if at all possible. Join online forums or find a rabbit-raising mentor for advice on health issues. Marketing Your Rabbits There is a strong demand for rabbit meat through local specialty food markets or selling to chefs. However, rabbit meat must be processed within a USDA-approved facility to sell into those markets legally. Unfortunately, those processing facilities are few and far between. If you’re lucky, your region may have mobile USDA-approved slaughter units (used for chickens, turkeys, ducks, and rabbits). But larger rabbit operations typically invest in their USDA-approved facility. It is a substantial up-front cost but can capture the lucrative chef and specialty food market. Another option is selling directly to consumers, much like many small-scale, local chicken and turkey farmers do, offering complimentary slaughter and dressing-out services. Check with your state rules and regulations first, however. There is a significant demand for rabbit meat for dog and cat owners feeding “raw meat” diets. As a result, many meat rabbit owners have found lucrative markets selling their rabbits as pet feed. Again, check for local rules, but most areas are not (at least yet) regulating their pet-food market outlet for rabbit meat. To find buyers, join local raw meat groups. Of course, some small farmers raise meat rabbits to fill their family freezers or to keep their farm livestock dogs fed and healthy. There is plenty more to learn about raising rabbits — including how to breed and how to slaughter — but, hopefully, this overview can get you started on a successful (and enjoyable) rabbit venture. For more information, we highly recommend the following resources: Small Scale Sustainable Rabbit Production A Complete Handbook on Backyard and Commercial Rabbit Production As always, Farmbrite  is here to help you with your farm management and tracking. Give us a try free today.   Written by Georgie Smith, known in her community as “Farmer Georgie,” is a fourth-generation farmer and journalist living on her family’s historic farm on a Pacific Northwest island. She ran her own small farm for more than 20 years. These days, when she’s not herding chickens, fixing the antique tractor (again) or growing heirloom dry beans, Georgie writes about farming. Georgie is passionate about supporting healthy, equitable, and sustainable food production and thriving family farms. www.farmergeorgiewrites.com

Are you considering buying a new farm, acquiring additional land, investing in new machinery, or changing operational practices? Many times growing your business requires investment in resources or people. Those investments can often feel overwhelming. Can I replay this loan? Can I afford the monthly payments? What kind of collateral do I need? Read on to find out how to answer some of these questions. Taking out a new loan or line of credit for your business can be a big decision and figuring out the payment amounts can often feel complicated and overwhelming. Buying a farm or home is often the largest purchase most people make in their lifetime, so you should always think carefully and plan how to finance it and if you can afford it. Farm Loan Calculator: Farm loan calculators are tools designed to help farmers and agricultural businesses estimate various financial aspects related to loans. These calculators can assist you in understanding the costs, repayment schedules, and other financial implications of taking out a loan for your farming operation. If you are thinking about getting a farm loan and wondering what your payments might look like, we've got you covered. This farm loan calculator will help estimate your monthly principal and interest payments. Just enter your loan details below to find out about what your interest and total payments might look like. What's Next in Getting A Farm Loan? Payment amounts and interest will vary from the estimates above, but hopefully, this tool helps give you an idea to get you started. Once you've figured out how much you can afford, you'll want to find a lender to help finance your next purchase. Check out some other creative ideas to find a farm loan and other creative financing ideas for your ag business. It's also important to note that different lenders may have varying terms and conditions for agricultural loans, so farmers should consult with financial experts and lending institutions for precise and personalized information. If you are looking for ways to streamline your farm management and make your farm more efficient check out how Farmbrite can help.

As spring starts to creep into the air in the northern hemisphere, it’s time to start planning for and preparing for spring plantings. In many places farmers have already been sowing and tending starts by growing in high tunnels or greenhouses , giving them an early start and a way to extend their growing season. As growers are finalizing their spring planting plans and starting to prepare fields for planting we thought it would be helpful to share some common methods and approaches to getting a field ready for planting. Till vs No-Till Before we dive into the common soil preparation methods, let’s talk about no-till farming (zero tillage or direct drilling). No-till farming is a farming technique for growing without disturbing the soil through tillage. There are many benefits to no-till farming, including decreasing soil erosion, reducing irrigation needs, minimizing fertilizer and amendments, reducing weed pressure, and preserving soil biology, nutrients, and health. No-tilling typically occurs by either over-seeding or direct seeding through or over a previous cover crop. The cover crop acts as mulch and compost for the new planting and additional weed protection. In some cases, farmers may apply an herbicide to the previous cover crop or can use silage tarps to prepare the bed for planting. Silage tarps are large UV-coated plastic that can be spread over a cover crop and within as little as 3 weeks can suffocate and kill the previous cover weed seeds laying dormant in that area. This process safely protects the microbiology and nutrients of the underlying soil. When complete, you're left with a bed ready to plant with minimal labor and a high nutrient load. Today tillage is the most common way that farms prepare their soil, but more and more farmers are seeing the benefits of no-till or low-till techniques that use minimal or shallow tillage, by using a disc harrow. There are different methods and equipment needs to pro and con in any type of soil preparation, so be sure to do your research to understand more about what might work best for your operation. Let the Soil Dry In many areas, spring means lots of moisture in the form of rain or snow, which is great for getting moisture to perennial plants and trees, but is not so great for soil preparation. Trying to work water-logged soils is difficult and also creates excess soil compaction which causes root impediments and nutrient loss. Before you start digging, plowing, or tilling it’s important to make sure the moisture level in the soil has dropped to workable levels. To test if the soil is dry enough you can perform a basic soil test. Make sure to do this in a few different areas of the field you’re planning to prepare. Scoop up a handful of soil and squeeze it into a ball with light pressure, then drop the ball of soil on a hard surface like a rock or your boot, if the ball bounces (or forms a puddle) you should probably wait, but if the ball easily breaks apart, your soil is likely dry enough to start preparing. Mowing & Incorporating Cover Crops For farmers who used fall or winter cover crops to add nutrients, change PH levels, or otherwise stabilize and improve their soil health, mowing and incorporating the cover crops into the field is an important step before preparing beds and planting. The first step to this is to cut the cover crop, so whether with a tractor, walk-behind tractor, heavy-duty mower, or old-fashioned scythe you’ll want to cut down the cover crop to allow it to start to decompose. Once you’ve cut the cover crop down, let the plant matter settle in place for a few days before incorporating it into the soil through tilling (there are different approaches for no-till operations like rolling or crimping vs cutting ). After the cover crop or plant matter has settled for a few days the plant and root material should be fully tilled or plowed into the field. Fully breaking down the cover crop will help the nutrients be more easily absorbed into the soil and minimize the risk of re-growth from the cover crop. Ideally, allow the field to rest for 3-6 weeks after incorporating your cover crop before preparing beds or sowing seeds to allow for the maximum absorption of nutrients into the soil. Check out some top cover crops that might benefit your soil. Testing your Soil While soil samples are often taken in the fall (to understand the soil health post-harvest), taking an additional solid sample in the spring (after the incorporation of cover crops) can help to provide details about overall soil health and any amendments you might want to consider. Because soil is an active, diverse, and dynamic biological system it’s a good idea to check in on the health of your soil in regular intervals. Think of your soil samples as a regular check-up for your soil - learn more about soil samples and testing . Soil Amendments & Compost Depending on the health, nutrients, structure, or composition of your soil you may find yourself needing to add something or many things to it to create the ideal environment for your planned crops. In addition to the nutrient value, organic soil amendments also provide additional benefits like loosening clay and compact soil, improving water retention for sandy soils, increasing soil loom, and reducing labor for digging and tillage. When adding compost or other organic matter, it’s important to not add more than 3-4 inches to the soil. There are numerous types of solid amendments and we can’t cover them all here in this article, but we’ll focus on some of the more common organic ones: Plant Matter As we mentioned earlier, incorporating cover crops into your soil is an excellent way to add additional nutrients to the soil. But you can also add other organic plant matter like leaves, straw, or grass clippings. It’s ideal to add these types of amendments in the fall to allow them time to decompose over the winter. Compost Whether you make your own compost or buy from a local producer, compost is an excellent source of additional organic matter and nutrients to incorporate into your soil. Compost is also an excellent medium to integrate other amendments like gypsum, biochar, kelp, manures, azomite, humates, bone meal, sea minerals, boron, copper, or zinc, etc. It’s ideal to mix any additional amendments with your compost a few weeks ahead of time before you incorporate it. Manure Manure is also an excellent source of additional nutrients. Effectively you’ve let cattle, goats, sheep, or other livestock do the hard work of composting plant matter for you. Be sure to let manure age before using as fresh manure can damage and burn plants and can also introduce harmful bacteria. It’s typically recommended to add about 30-40 lbs of aged and composted manure for every 100 sqft of soil. Green Manure Green manure is a way of growing a nutrient-rich plant, cutting it and leaving it so it can break down back into the soil and then tilling it in before you plant. Planting rye, oats, or other cover crops in the fall after this soil preparation is an excellent way to incorporate additional organic matter and improve soil health. Check out the section above to learn more about Mowing & Incorporating Cover Crops in case you missed it. Gypsum or Sand For heavy clay soils, adding gypsum or sand can help to loosen the clay soil and make it more workable. Adding 3-4 lbs of gypsum per 100 sqft after your fall harvest can help improve the workability of heavy clay soils come spring planting time. Tilling or Plowing the Field If you choose to till you should try to till as deeply as possible, at least 8-10 inches. This loosens the soil, breaks up existing plant matter, and allows for deeper root depth for your crops. Regardless of whether you till using a walk-behind tractor , rototiller, or a traditional tractor, be sure to till when the soil is dry, as working wet soil is not only difficult, but it causes additional compaction and damage to the soil. To make spring tilling easier you can also spade or fork the soil in the winter to prepare for spring planting. Type of Plows for Soil Preparation Digging in the dirt and preparing beds is hard work, but fortunately, there are many mechanized solutions out there to help get your soil (in whatever condition it's in now) ready for planting. Depending on the field conditions and types of crops you're planting you may need to use different implements to prepare the soil. There are various types of plows and configurations of plows that allow for various depths, aeration, and impact on the soil. If you're shopping for a plow or tractor attachment we recommend talking to your friendly neighborhood farm equipment retailer and friends and neighbors to discuss your options and specific needs, soil conditions, crop plans, etc. We’ll try and provide an overview of different implements that you might use to prepare your soil. Rototiller Rototillers come in all shapes and sizes from your backyard garden front or rear-tined, to walk-behind tractor attachments to heavy-duty tractor mounted PTO driven Rototillers. In all cases, they perform the same function as using rotating tines (discs) to dig into, loosen, and break up the soil. Rototillers work well when breaking up compacted soils. Moldboard Plow Moldboard plows use a large curved blade that is pulled across the ground by a tractor. As it’s pulled across the ground it digs deep into the ground cutting a row and turning the soil. This type of plow cuts, lifts, breaks up, and loosens the soil. This process also loosens and aerates the soil and leaves behind a trough that can be used for planting. Reversible Garden Plow Reversible Plows are similar to a moldboard plow, but have a set of 2 or more reversible blades. These blades can be mounted in different positions and directions allowing for the creation of various space furrows or mounds. This is usually used for deep tillage to turn over the upper layer of the soil bringing up fresh nutrients. Chisel Plow Unlike a Moldboard, chisel plows use a curved chisel/rod that digs into the soil for aeration and loosening the soil without turning the soil. It leaves the crop residue on the surface of the soil. You can find chisel plows in various configurations, widths, and with different types of chisels. Because they are not turning the soil, chisel plows are less damaging to the soil health as they cause less impact. Disc / Harrow Plow Disc plows are pulled behind a tractor and have multiple rows of rotating steel discs that turn as they are dragged. Disc plows work well to plow hard rough ground to pulverize and break up very compact soil. Subsoil Plow Used for breaking up the soil underneath a hardpan layer (typically caused by chemical treatments), a subsoil plow works by pulling lower layers of soil up to the surface without turning it. This action tills and aerates the soil and minimizes soil compaction. It also allows water to penetrate the soil to break up the hardpan layer. Preparing Beds and Rows for Planting Now that your field is dry, amended, and tilled it’s time to prepare it for planting. Often fields are prepared into beds making planting, maintenance, and harvesting easier and more efficient. Additionally, creating beds in your field allows for water to drain away from the plant roots, provides a trough for irrigation, and encourages airflow. Before making beds it’s important to try and flatten your growing area. A level surface will allow for easier germination when direct sowing or a smoother platform to transplant into. To level your field, use a pull-behind rake attachment or a good soil rake. Once your ground is level you’ll want to try and create rows (furrows) about every 36” (if your garden is large enough). Beds (in the US) are typically 36” wide and often 100’ long. While straight beds are pretty to look at, they are not necessary. If you’re using any type of hoops or other crop covers be sure to consider the size of those when creating your beds. Also, planning for irrigation before creating beds and planting is important. We’ll cover more on irrigation in another post. For smaller gardens, you can mark your bed width using a board cut 36” long and use a hoe or other hand tool to dig a furrow along the length of the bed, typically about 8-10” deep. For larger areas, you might choose to invest in a tractor attachment to help cut, level, and shape your beds. Once your beds are leveled and shaped it’s time to start planting on top of your beds. Resources for Field Preparation Overview of no-till farming from Rodale Institute Tips for the No-till curious from farmers.gov Economic analysis of no-till farming from the USDA Composting basics from the EPA How to compost at home Tillage Systems Information from the University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cropwatch A guide to soil testing from NC State Soil testing resources from UMass Summary We’ve covered a lot in this post and hopefully, you’ve learned a little more about different methods and techniques to prepare your fields for spring planting. Happy farming out there! If you're interested in learning more about how Farmbrite can help keep track of equipment, and your other farm management needs, give us a try here .

Farming can be incredibly rewarding, though it comes with its challenges. The rewards are often more than just financial; many farmers find deep satisfaction in working the land, producing food, and contributing to the well-being of their communities. The tangible results of growing crops or raising animals, along with the opportunity to work outdoors and engage with nature, can be fulfilling. Farming also fosters a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. However, the challenges—such as unpredictable weather, market fluctuations, and long hours—require resilience. For those passionate about the lifestyle and the impact they make, the rewards of farming often outweigh the difficulties. Here we've outlined some areas that can help grow your new farm business. Is Farming the Career For You? Farming can be incredibly rewarding, though it comes with its challenges. The rewards are often more than just financial; many farmers find deep satisfaction in working the land, producing food, and contributing to the well-being of their communities. The tangible results of growing crops or raising animals, along with the opportunity to work outdoors and engage with nature, can be fulfilling. Farming also fosters a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. However, the challenges—such as unpredictable weather, market fluctuations, and long hours—require resilience. For those passionate about the lifestyle and the impact they make, the rewards of farming often outweigh the difficulties. Like a lot of people, you may also have dreams of becoming a farmer, working outside, digging in the soil, feeding animals, growing food, and selling at the farmer's market. It is also sometimes hard for folks who want to transition to farming or ranching to know where to start. We've outlined 9 ways to get started farming. Keep reading to learn some tips for how to get started and set yourself up for success in farming. If you're considering a change in career here are a few things to think about before you start digging in the soil or buying livestock. We've outlined a few points to consider as you explore this very rewarding career. 1.) Find a Farming Mentor Just like learning any new skill or trade, finding the right resources and teacher can make all the difference. We recommend getting started by talking to lots of farmers. You can start by reaching out to your local agricultural extension office or trying to connect with farm workers or managers at your local farmers market . The important part is finding someone you respect and one that farms the way you want to farm. Get a job with them or volunteer around their farm. Learn all you can. Be reliable, show up and give all you can, and be loyal to them for helping you and teaching you what they know. There are going to be jobs you don't want to do but do them anyway. This is starting from the bottom and learning as you go. Learn from both the farmer's knowledge of what works and their mistakes. If you start early in life you get about 30 or so seasons to succeed at farming. That seems like a lot but that is a whole year that I'm talking about. Learn early and maybe even find a better/smarter way. Learning from how others failed will give you a head start. There are many great books on farming and tons of YouTube videos where farmers talk about their challenges and what has worked for them. 2.) Develop a Farm Business Plan Like starting any new business, the first step is to develop a farm business plan . What are you going to grow or raise? Where are you going to sell it? Who is your perfect customer? The business part of farming is also part of farming. It's the part that folks often forget. You wouldn't set out on a long drive without a map to know where you're going, why would you do that in your business? Knowing what you want to sell, where, and to whom is just the start of this plan. You need your road map to understand where you're going. It's important to get very specific on what you want to do and then reverse-engineer your business plan: who you need to talk to, what you need to acquire, what steps you need to take to get there, and what you need to achieve your goals. This is your dream. Write it all out on paper. Get excited about it! A word of advice: If you can at all swing it, don't start out owing money. This puts you at an extreme disadvantage and you will start out coming from a place of want instead of being smart and steady as your business grows. Start small and grow from there. Spend wisely. Try to find deals on the things you need. Maybe use Craigslist, to buy things that are of high quality but are on sale, maybe your mentor has a friend selling something you need (ask around and network), or maybe you borrow something at first so you don't have to take that loss in the beginning. ​ 3.) Learn the Economics and Business of Farming In the past farmers have used a very capitalistic view of resources. Air, water, and soil have been plentiful. As those resources are becoming more scarce, getting started farming has become harder. As new farmers, you need to be aware of what has been done in the past and what is no longer working. Maximizing profits and industrializing farming (capitalistic approach) have been detrimental to the farmer's way of life. They may have maximized profit but there was a high cost to the land. The industrialized farmer has one crop that they sell. Hypothetically, it seems like a good idea to specialize but to use a farming expression, you're putting all your eggs in one basket. It can be detrimental if there is a dip in sale prices, in foreign trade talks, politics, or even the weather. We can learn from science, technology, and economics and find ways and practices to change and be a better farmer and stewards of the land. You do this by diversifying your farm, understanding business fundamentals, using sustainable methods of farming, and making smart choices on your farm. Getting an understanding of economic business principles can help you base your farm or ranch on sound business practices. Here are some economic principles to get comfortable with: Financial Risk: The role of understanding f inancial risk for farm business is the possibility of a business losing money due to various factors like market fluctuations, operational failures, economic conditions, loan rates, and more. These factors can affect a company's cash flow, profitability, and overall financial health. Each operational area, cow, chickens, pigs, micro greens, wheat, corn, etc., will have different factors and each should be researched to understand them fully. Some ways businesses minimize financial risks are; by diversifying investments across a few markets. If one fails, you have a backup plan. Have an emergency fund to fall back on in case of hard times. Invest in insurance. Invest wisely across your new business by making smart buying choices at the right moment. And one of the most important in our opinion, calculating risks with data analysis. Income: We all know that income is the money or value that a business receives for providing goods or services over a set period of time. This is a key indicator of business health and stability. Income can be increased in a business in several ways; by increasing the number of customers, increasing the transaction size, increasing the frequency of transactions, decreasing the amount you spend on making the product, or increasing the number of transactions per customer. Consolidation: Consolidation is the process of combining two or more businesses into one new company . The goal of consolidation is to create a larger, more efficient company that can compete more effectively in the marketplace. This has both good and bad implications. In farming, there has been a large consolidation of US farms. This means that smaller farms have been purchased by larger farms or that smaller farms grow or raise animals for a larger operation that markets and sells the product. The second part of this can take away some of the burden from smaller farms since they can focus on one aspect of farming. You might also look at consolidation as joining a farm cooperative. But consolidations have negative effects as well. It has a shrinking effect on our farms, giving rise to larger farm sizes and fewer of them, raising mono-crops that can deplete the soil if not cared for correctly, and crop location which might mean shipping the product a long way which raises prices, and carbon footprints, and raising large amounts of animals in a small area which can breed disease. Productivity Productivity is an economic measure of how efficiently goods and services are produced by comparing the amount of output to the amount of inputs used to produce them. This means how much labor, money, energy, materials, and services went into making that bag of rice, a package of beef, a box of tea bags, etc. Some key productivity concepts in business are; strategy, planning, focus, task management, and consistency. These principles are also key in farm businesses and agriculture. Smart business people diversify, scale, and find what works and leave what doesn't. Today there are many farm business courses available to learn about farm economics, management, agribusiness, and more. You don't need to take one of these classes or be a business major to get started farming but you can take some of these concepts and do your own research to find out what works for you and how they might help you run a better farm business. 4.) Understand the Many Jobs of a Farmer Like any new business, the owner is often the operator and farms are no exception. You might have to wear many different hats. As a farmer, you might be a laborer, mechanic, artist, plumber, electrician, landscaper, entrepreneur, grower, inventor, salesperson, website designer, and honestly whatever else needs to be done. You need to be quick to learn new things. As a small business, you need to treat it as such. Growing food is your passion but you also need to do those business-type things to sell your product. Become proficient at doing the things you don't like to do - first. Be realistic with your skills and experience and get help where you need it. Sometimes it might cost a little more to get some outside or expert experience, but it's always cheaper to do it right the first time. And like with any new business be flexible and adaptive - it's going to take some time and trial and error to find and get things working the way you want. 5.) Develop Your Farm Niche This is where you get to be creative and put the "you" into your farm. Why is what you're selling awesome? It's important that you know the why behind your product so that you can tell that story to your customers. This is what will keep them coming back over and over again; that and your customer service. Get the word out about your farm and products through all the social media sites and web e-commerce that are available to you. Just because you're a farmer doesn't mean you need to do away with technology. Let technology work for you. Tell your story so people want to choose your products.    Be the expert on this product. You need to know everything there is about this market. Knowing what you're up against will help you before you have a problem. People will come to you when they need that product.  With so many choices for produce and farm products today, it's important to find something that makes your farm and products unique so you can stand out in the crowd. Your passion for your product is key to this. 6.) Find Farmland, Equipment and Materials This is the elephant in the room for many people. How/where do you get land to raise or grow your product?  Think outside the box on this one. You don't necessarily need to own the land. At first, maybe you rent the land. Or maybe you find a warehouse to grow food in or grow food on the top of a building in the city. Maybe it's aquaponics farms, livestock, row crops, bees, there are so many ways to grow food. It doesn't have to be conventional farming. Think outside of that box. This is what is going to make you stand out and it will end up being your brand. We need unconventional thinking in farming. We have to be smarter about how we farm.    Besides land, you may also need to purchase or lease other equipment, livestock, seeds, and other materials. Some of these can also be rented or shared. There are many ways to find farm financing to help you get started. But getting financing isn't the only way, you can also hold a job that brings in the main form of income or have one person hold a job while the farm gets up and running. Just because you do this part-time doesn't mean you aren't farming. 7.) Market and Sell your Farm Products and Build Loyal Customers Find your niche in the market and do that really well. Get passionate about your product - honey, mushrooms, beef, cabbage whatever that is and do not forget about your customer service. Call people back, follow up with emails, and send out emails to your contact list. Make them feel special. This seems like a no-brainer but as a growing business you are going to be busy and things like returning emails might fall through the cracks. This is a huge mistake. People come back because you take care of them. They will tell other people (good or bad) how they were treated. You're spending a large amount of time and money on growing your product, and taking care of your customers is paramount to your success. Who you are, what you sell, and how you treat your customer is primary to your marketing and your brand. Have a specific time each day that you sit down and return emails, and phone calls, and work on your marketing. Communicating with your customers will help you grow. 8.) Build a Network to Support You You need some know-how before you jump into this. The USDA is going to be a great resource for new farmers. The internet is a great tool for this and as I said before having a mentor will help you so much. Getting some hands-on experience before you start will let you know if you really want to do this full-time. It will also teach you as you go. There are many resources for new and upcoming farmers out there that can help. Seek them out and find what you need to succeed. You can also get in contact with your local extension office. They might be able to put you in touch with the right people. You might also try your hand at working on a farm WWOOFing. (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) https://wwoof.net/ ​ This gives you the opportunity to 9.) Learn and Grow Starting a new business is exciting and it also has a high learning curve. Remember that you're in this for the long haul, so go slow, keep costs in line with your revenue, and keep making changes to improve. I'm not going to sugarcoat this, most new businesses fail in the first 2 years. Be realistic and smart about this process. First and foremost, take the emotion out of starting a farm and run it like a business. If you want to drive a tractor around a field but can't afford it, buying that tractor might be the end of your dream as a farmer. Don't let pride get the best of you.  We can't tell you everything will go perfectly. You're going to mess up. Every new business owner has messed up. Every farmer has messed up. It's ok to mess up, but learn quickly from those mistakes and keep going. This is where the mentor or another farmer friend who is doing the same thing, will help. You could have get-togethers to bounce ideas off of each other and mastermind your businesses. This helps keep you going as a small business. It helps to have someone to talk about the challenges you face every day who understands and can offer solutions. Now, roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, don't throw away anything (because as soon as you do you'll need it again), repair things that are old instead of getting a new one and best of luck in your new endeavor. You can do this! Here are some other resources to help you get started. Keys to succeeding on the farm Top 10 reasons new businesses fail USDA Resources for New Farmers Beginning Farmers resources Tips for starting a new business Finding farmland Farm financing from Steward If you're getting started as a new farmer, we understand that there is a lot of startup cost. We want to help you be successful and so we offer a large discount in the first year. We know that getting started in farming is not easy. That's why we have a New Farmer Program. Qualifying new farmers receive a 75% discount off any of our subscription plans for their 1st year and 25% off after that. Check out our new farmer discount program to learn more. Getting started in farming can be both exciting and challenging. It begins with choosing the right type of farming—whether crop production, livestock rearing, or a mix of both—based on your interests, land, and market demands. Conducting thorough research is essential, from understanding soil health and climate conditions to selecting suitable crops or animals for your region. Next, develop a solid business plan, which includes budgeting for equipment, seeds, livestock, and other resources. Start small to manage risks, and learn as you go. Networking with local farmers, attending workshops, and seeking guidance from agricultural experts can help you gain practical knowledge. With patience, resilience, and a passion for the land, farming can be a rewarding venture.