By: Robyn Stewart, ANR Agent

For folks that weren’t raised around agriculture, it can look deceptively like the perfect life. Getting to spend every day outside in the fresh air, watching gardens and crops grow, experiencing the wonder of newborn calves and other livestock—there are a lot of incredible things to experience in the world of agriculture. Most folks would note the hardships too- working fields in 100+ degree summer heat, working from sunrise to sunset every day, caring for sick and injured animals—and sometimes losing them. Bridging the gap between the fantasy of a small farm and the effort it takes to be successful in farming is part of our goal at UGA Cooperative Extension. We are here to provide the knowledge, research, and support that our farmers need to run profitable and sustainable operations.

            When you look at some numbers, it is clear that getting started in farming is no easy task. Depending on the size of your operation, you can invest significant amounts of money over the first few years—yet you might not be profitable until you’ve been in the market 5-7 years (AFBF article). One of the biggest mistakes I see people make when they start a homestead or farming venture is that they do not treat it as a business, but rather a hobby. If your intention is to provide for your family and friends, this mindset is fantastic—but if you want your farm to become profitable and sustainable you’ll need to treat it as a business. There are five things I encourage you to consider before you get involved with a farming venture.

            First off, you need a business plan. A business plan helps you identify your goals for your operation, how you’re going to accomplish them, and what the time frame is to do so. Once you have an established business plan, come meet with some local organizations like USDA, Cooperative Extension, and FSA for information on resources to help you get your feet on the ground. The third thing to do is get educated. Look for programs that will teach you how to manage your operation and commodities, and also find ways to get hands-on experience. Being profitable in farming relies on your ability to manage your operation effectively, and the best way to learn is to help someone who’s been doing it well and is willing to give you guidance. If you need help connecting with another producer, your local Extension office can usually help. Fourth, you’ll need to set up and finance your business by determining its structure, getting a tax number, and obtaining any required licenses or financing you might need. Finally, you’ll need to work hard, market your operation and products well, and be in it for the long haul. Lincoln County Extension is planning on running some programs for new and small farmers in 2021, so if you’re interested in getting involved with those, let us know at uge3181@uga.edu or 706-359-3233.