Michael Woods

Description of farming status, plans, and practices:

Currently, maintain a college demonstration gardens that features regenerative agricultural practices.  We raise, vegetables and flowers.  In the past, I have had numerous production experiences with vegetables, grapes and flowers.  Would like to establish a family operation that features local produce and cut flowers along with fresh eggs and possibly goats.  This would be a family business (spouse and 3 kids).  Kids would like to have horses, goats, rabbits, and chickens for 4H/FFA projects.

Description of marketing method:

Local farmers markets and stands.  Location would impact the sort of product sales/marketing activities advanced.

Does this farmer have a business plan?

No

Preferred location:

Desired acreage:

51-100

Infrastructure required:

Onsite housing, Barns or other facilities for storage of equipment, livestock, and crops, Water access, Fencing, Electrical Access

Description of buildings required:

Would like to have barn(s) available for equipment, supplies, produce, livestock, and storage.

Description of water access required:

Access to water for gardens/flowers.  Can be carried as needed.

Description of fencing required:

Would like to have fencing for animals, but could be added as livestock is acquired.

Primary crops:

Vegetables, Fruits, Ornamentals, Other Crops

Primary Livestock:

Cattle - Beef, Equine, Goats/Sheep, Poultry

Description of livestock/crops:

Would like to have small animals initially, with the option of adding a horse or two for kids.  Mainly looking at poultry and goats.

Tenure options desired:

For Lease, Partnership, For Sale, Other Tenure Agreement

Description of tenure options desired:

Would like to eventually purchase property, but open to all options that would allow the doors to be open for farming operation.  A contract for deed would be preferred.

Will this farmer's operation qualify an eligible landowner for an Agricultural Assessment?

Yes

Experience & education:

Formal agricultural education, Farm owner, On farm work experience, Farm internship/apprenticeship, Farmer training or workshop

Experience description:

Over 40 years of hands-on agricultural experience. Education: Associates in animal science/ag transfer, BS in Agricultural Marketing, MS in Extension Education (Horticulture/Agriculture/Natural Resources/Youth Development focus) and PhD in Agricultural Education.  Served as a County Extension Director for many years, established programs to help farmers start-up operations, owned my own farm and winery, Teach College level Agribusiness Management and extensive organic and value added agriculture experience.
Relocating to Dutchess County and seek a farming operation to raise family and generate additional family income in an field/area we so love (agriculture and local food production).