Preferred counties/regions
- Capital Region
- Rensselaer County
- Saratoga County
- Washington County
Desired acreage
- 11-20
- 21-50
Farming Status
Emerging farmer: 2 years or more of on farm work experience
Not currently farming
Primary reason for farming
Farm will generate a portion of my income
Farming status, plans, and practices
I am currently in the planning stage of starting a heritage livestock and regenerative grazing operation. My future goals include raising heritage sheep and goats for natural‑color fiber, along with poultry and quail for eggs, breeding lines, and integrated land management. I plan to use rotational grazing, low‑input and low‑stress livestock handling, and soil‑building practices such as forage diversity, manure cycling, and poultry integration for pest control. My long‑term focus is on sustainable, conservation‑minded farming that improves pasture health and supports rare breeds.
Farm Experience & Education
- On farm work experience
I have a bachelor degree in Environmental Science and in conservation and have taken classes on regenerative agriculture and agroforestry. I have experience in growing fruits, veggies and flowers, though small scale. I also have experience with poultry and sheep, and some experience working with horses, beef and dairy cattle.
Farming Plans and Practices
Farming method or practice
- Biodynamic
- Organic (certified)
- Organic (not certified)
- Regenerative/Sustainable
Primary crops
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Vegetables
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Fruits
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Flowers or Ornamentals
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Maple
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Other Crops
Primary livestock
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Cattle - Beef
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Cattle - Dairy
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Equine
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Goats/Sheep
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Poultry
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Bees
-
Other Livestock
My farm plan raises a diverse collection of heritage livestock and heirloom crops designed for regenerative, low‑input agriculture. The farm integrates Yak, Pineywoods cattle and Florida Cracker cattle, Navajo‑Churro, Ouessant, Shetland and Icelandic sheep, Angora/Cashmere/Cashgora goats, suri llamas, Rex rabbits, and a robust program of heritage poultry, ducks, turkeys, geese, and quail. These species support fiber, pelts, dairy, meat, eggs, and conservation grazing across a silvopasture-based system.
The crop program centers on maple trees for silvopasture and syrup, a mixed heirloom orchard, and a full range of heirloom vegetables and flowers. Together, these perennial and annual systems reinforce soil health, biodiversity, and the farm’s heritage-focused identity.
Marketing Method
I would use a relationship‑driven, heritage-focused marketing approach that emphasizes storytelling, transparency, and direct customer connection. The farm markets its livestock, fiber, pelts, eggs, and heirloom crops through direct-to-consumer channels, including farmstand sales, seasonal markets, and pre‑order lists for specialty products. Each product line is framed around heritage genetics, regenerative practices, and artisan-quality craftsmanship, allowing customers to engage with the farm’s mission while purchasing premium, limited-availability goods.
Farm business plan or farm resume
Farmland Needs
Infrastructure required
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Barns - Livestock
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Farmer housing
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Fencing
I am currently planning a heritage livestock operation and will need basic infrastructure such as secure perimeter fencing, movable electric fencing for rotational grazing, and simple shelters for sheep and goats. For poultry and quail, I will need mobile coops or tractors, brooding space, and predator‑safe housing. To prepare for future cattle, I will need stronger perimeter fencing, a small handling area with gates or a corral, shade structures, and reliable water access. Additional needs include portable waterers, feed and equipment storage, and space for developing silvopasture plantings. My goal is to build practical, low‑input infrastructure that supports multi‑species grazing, soil health, and long‑term regenerative management.
Desired Tenure
I am seeking a stable, long‑term tenure arrangement that allows me to establish and grow a heritage livestock and regenerative grazing operation. I am open to leases, lease‑to‑own agreements, or multi‑year partnerships that provide security for building infrastructure and improving the land. My goal is to develop a responsible, low‑impact, multi‑species grazing system, so I value arrangements that support long‑term stewardship, soil health, and gradual farm development.
