In spite of the uneven playing field that often leaves beginning farmers few opportunities to access land to farm, there are some innovative ways that beginning farmers are accessing land. Use the resources below to get started on your journey.
The Land Stewardship Project has simple application forms available for people seeking farmland or farmers. Once the form is filled out, the information can be circulated by LSP via the Land Stewardship Letter, LIVE-WIRE and through our various networks. See currently available postings here.
A farm is a deeply personal thing. It is a home, a business, a living ecosystem, a way of life. It can also be an investment in the future of agriculture. When a family makes a farm transition plan, they can shape the values and stewardship that will be carried out on that land, and potentially give new farmers an opportunity to get started. The Land Stewardship Project has several tools for people planning a farm transition.
The Land Stewardship Project hosts a yearly online Farm Transition Planning Course designed to help you act on your conservation and social values. Seven 2 ½ hour sessions will bring professionals, farmers and LSP staff together to dig into values and goals, communications, generational, financial, legal and long-term care considerations.
In spite of the uneven playing field that often leaves beginning farmers few opportunities to access land to farm, there are some innovative ways retiring farmers and new farmers are connecting to make things happen.
What is your vision for your farm? How does this fit into the context of the larger rural landscape? What is the land’s best use? You do not have to do this alone, LSP has a number of resources plus people who are willing and able to help.
