Matthew Graziano

I plan on raising livestock primarily for meat production and growing some crops on the side. I also plan on starting a confectionary business by eventually renting a modified shipping container or trailer.

Preferred counties/regions

Western

Desired acreage

11-20
21-50
51-100
>100

Farming Status

Emerging farmer: 2 years or more of on farm work experience

Not currently farming

Primary reason for farming

Farm will generate the majority of my income

Farming status, plans, and practices

I am not currently farming on any land but I am hoping that will change soon. My goal is to build up equity while being able to save enough money from the income generated to eventually purchase my own farm. When it comes to livestock and crop production I am a major fan of regenerative and organic agriculture.

Farm Experience & Education

Formal agricultural education
On farm work experience

I recently graduated Alfred State College with an associate's degree in Agricultural Business and I have another degree in Environmental Studies from Niagara County Community College. I worked on a horse farm during my childhood when my aunt used to own horses and for almost three years I worked at a commercial chicken (layer) farm. Recently, I started an online cosmetic store.

Farming Plans and Practices

Farming method or practice

Organic (certified)
Organic (not certified)
Regenerative/Sustainable

Primary crops

Vegetables
Fruits
Other Crops

Primary livestock

Cattle - Beef
Goats/Sheep
Pigs
Poultry

Ideally I would like to raise and start a mixed breeding herd consisting of beef cattle, sheep, meat goats, and pigs while also raising poultry for egg and meat production. At some point I plan on aquiring a mobile slaughterhouse in order to do my own butchering and diversify income as well as start a candy store. For crop production I plan on growing fruits, vegetables, microgreens, and hemp.

Marketing Method

When it comes to selling produce I will be selling through an online platform, farmer's markets, produce auctions, CSA's, and possibly a co-op.

Farm business plan or farm resume

My business plan or farm resume is in progress

Farmland Needs

Infrastructure required

Barns - Equipment Storage
Electrical access
Farmer housing
Fencing
Water access

If the farm isn't close to my current address I will most likely need on site housing due to cost of rent as well as barns for storing equipment and holding livestock temporarily that are more vulnerable to predators while I acquire livestock guard dogs and run an ai program.

Desired Tenure

Tenure options desired

For Lease
Business Partnership
Farm Management
Other Tenure Agreement

I would prefer a lease agreement but I may be open to some kind of partnership or tenure agreement.

Will this operation qualify an eligible landowner for an Agricultural Assessment?

Yes