Start a Sustainable Agriculture Business This Farmer’s Day with Metal Buildings

What is Sustainable Agriculture? In celebration of Farmer’s Day, let’s examine the benefits of sustainable agriculture practices and how a metal building can support you in your endeavors. If you’re new to the world of farming and eager to learn, you may be asking, “What is sustainable agriculture?” According to the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, sustainable agriculture focuses on three characteristics: Economic Environmental Social ‘Economic’, meaning that sustainable agriculture plans to be profitable. Just because the practices are eco-friendly doesn’t mean they won’t be budget-friendly, too! ‘Environmental’ is an important component of the sustainable model, emphasizing care of the earth’s resources. The ‘social’ aspect focuses on building a community of like-minded farmers and providing quality of life for them and their families. How to Begin Your Sustainable Agriculture Business Are you excited and ready to begin? Have you chosen your dream property and dreamed of a space for your metal barn ? There’s a lot to consider before you jump in with both feet. Let’s talk about the best way to begin a sustainable agriculture business: Establish goals and objectives – First, write down the values that matter to you and set the goals that you wish to attain. Why are you starting your agriculture business? Are you beginning alone, or do you have a partner? Discuss your motivations, your fears, and your goals together. Having clear objectives will be important when you run into obstacles. Write your clear, measurable goals – Next, narrow those down to more distinct, measurable goals. Why? Without specific, measurable, objectives, it is difficult to determine whether you are “on track” to meet your goals! A goal should be specific, measurable, attainable, reasonable, and time-oriented (set a time limit). Create a business plan – You must have a solid business plan if you are to secure a loan or startup money. It often takes several years for a small business to turn a profit and you’ll need to plan accordingly! Talk to your area farmers and businesses to get an idea of what products are in demand before you choose which crops or animals your farm will invest in. Estimate your annual gross income and net income, then consider ways to reduce your overhead. If you have investors involved, it’s important to show them that you are a savvy entrepreneur! Create a production plan – Sustainable farming is very different from other businesses. You must consider many other factors when starting such an enterprise. For example, you must take the weather into account. Rainfall and temperature will significantly impact your farming choices. You will also want to consult the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service to determine how your property’s soil will impact your crops. The size of your land will also dictate whether year-round practices will be successful. Research the work of others and learn from their mistakes and su