Preferred counties/regions
- Columbia County
- Greene County
- Hudson Valley
- Dutchess County
- Ulster County
- Sullivan County
- Orange County
- Putnam County
- Westchester County
- Rockland County
- Delaware County
Desired acreage
- 5 or fewer
- 6-10
- 11-20
Farming Status
Beginning farmer: 10 years or less of experience managing a farm business
Currently farming full-time
Primary reason for farming
Farm will generate a portion of my income
Farming status, plans, and practices
Im currently farming full time in Westchester county as a farm manager but do not own the farm/business. My ideal land arrangement would be a mid to long term lease or to own. Somewhere in the 2-5 acre range is what Im considering right now but Im open to other arrangements as well. Water and electricity access is a must! I initially want to focus on 3 or 4 (dahlias/tomatoes/dried flowers/culinary garden) cash crops that do not require washing and are not highly perishable. The farming practices would be low till and organic (cover crop/leaf mulch/compost/organic amendments) with a large percentage of the beds being permanent. I have a lot of experience in highly intensive diversified vegetable growing that does not require heavy machinery and I would like to continue down that path.
Before I was farming I worked as a professional chef and it is still a big part of my life. While farming, for the last 7 years, I founded a small catering company in my spare time that has provided a nice side income. In the future I hope to expand upon the catering business and link it intimately with a farming operation. Im open to small events (farm dinners) and large events (weddings).
Farm Experience & Education
- Farm internship/apprenticeship
- Farmer training or workshop
- Farm manager
- On farm work experience
I spent many years as both a chef (15) and a farmer (7). I don't have a lot of equipment experience but I also don't plan on relying on heavy equipment. I specialize in propagation and chef focused produce.
Farming Plans and Practices
Farming method or practice
- Organic (not certified)
- Regenerative/Sustainable
Primary crops
-
Vegetables
-
Flowers or Ornamentals
-
Other Crops
Primary livestock
Marketing Method
Initially focusing on selling veggies through a local farmers market and to some select restaurants. Dahlias can be sold direct to florists with the option of tapping into the massive NYC wedding industry. Instagram and a website are a must.
Farm business plan or farm resume
Farmland Needs
Infrastructure required
-
Barns - Equipment Storage
-
Electrical access
-
Water access
best case scenario:
water access/deer fence/electricity/equipment shed/road access
Desired Tenure
Im hoping to lock in a 3-5 year lease to start with the option of more long term arrangement after the trial period. If the property has a residence on site I would also be interested in the option to own.
