Preferred counties/regions
- Southern Tier
- Broome County
- Tioga County
Desired acreage
- 5 or fewer
- 6-10
Farming Status
Aspiring farmer: 1 year or less of farming experience
Not currently farming
Primary reason for farming
Hobby or for personal use
Farming status, plans, and practices
My current status would be "hobbyist/amateur." I maintain vegetable and flower gardens, and I have laying hens in my backyard. I also compost and try to focus on native plants when possible. In the coming year, I am hoping to add two beehives, and possibly expand to include meat rabbits as well.
In my free time, I am doing everything I can to learn more about gardening and livestock-raising, including attending some workshops through VINES and Cornell Cooperative Extension.
I am seeking land because I am interested in aspects of agriculture that would be impractical or impossible to do as a renter in the suburbs. Because I am trying not to bite off more than I can chew, I would be looking at starting with a very small herd of ADGA-registered dairy goats, either Nubians or Nigerian Dwarfs. Ideally, I would like to rotationally graze this herd.
Over time, I hope to expand to additional species (within the comfort level of the land owner). After gaining experience with managing the goats, I would particularly like to raise heritage turkeys (especially White Hollands, but possibly also Beltsville Small Whites or Midget Whites).
In general, I am very interested in regenerative farming practices, sustainable farming, and organic farming. I am interested in elements of permaculture specifically as well.
In my wildest dreams, I'd love to run a small business producing pet chews and food derived 100% from sustainably farmed crops and livestock (with guidance from a veterinary nutritionist) – but I think I have a lot to learn before that could become a reality.
Farm Experience & Education
- Farmer training or workshop
- On farm work experience
Farming Plans and Practices
Farming method or practice
- Organic (not certified)
- Regenerative/Sustainable
Primary crops
-
Vegetables
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Fruits
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Flowers or Ornamentals
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Grains
Primary livestock
-
Cattle - Dairy
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Goats/Sheep
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Pigs
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Poultry
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Bees
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Other Livestock
I would be looking at starting with a very small herd of dairy goats, either Nubians or Nigerian Dwarfs.
Over time, I hope to expand to additional species and possibly crops (as appropriate, and within the comfort level of the land owner). After gaining experience with managing the goats, I would particularly like to raise heritage turkeys (especially White Hollands, but possibly also Beltsville Small Whites or Midget Whites).
Farm business plan or farm resume
Farmland Needs
Infrastructure required
-
Water access
My biggest concern is water access. I'm not opposed to hauling buckets, but would appreciate if there was at least water available on the property.
As long as it's okay with the property owners, I'm happy to personally provide infrastructure needed for livestock on site (e.g. loafing sheds, fences, coops, etc).
I don't require housing. I would be looking to travel between the property and my home in Vestal.
Electrical access would be appreciated if available, but I'm also happy to use battery-powered or non-powered equipment.
I would be open to partially forested land so long as it's still feasible to set up any necessary infrastructure.
Desired Tenure
My ideal situation right now would be either a cooperative model or outright leasing a relatively small amount of property (e.g. a few acres).
Any mentorship or guidance would be very appreciated, but not strictly speaking necessary. I am also happy to help out however I can on the property.
