Becoming a Farmer: A Career Guide 

Have you ever thought about becoming a farmer? We need more young farmers today, since many in the older generation are retiring. Farming can be rewarding and even highly profitable for business-savvy types.

There are over 2 million farms in the U.S. today, and most are small businesses run by families. But how do you go about getting started on farming if your family isn’t already into it?

Here’s all you need to know about making a living as a farmer, and how to get started.

Types of Farming

There are all types of farming, from tiny micro farms that specialize in a few crops, to large industrial operations that rake in millions each year. There are also many types of farming careers, from managerial roles, to roles that require mastery of a large variety of skills.

No matter what your previous work background has been up to now, you can use your skills in farming. Farms are small businesses where everything from sales skills to accounting to artistic talent make a difference.

Becoming a Farmer, With No Prior Experience

Becoming a farmer is a matter of following the startup steps most businesses follow. It involves writing a business plan, raising startup funds, taking out a farm loan, and buying initial supplies. Some farmers join cooperatives that help them sell their products and learn how to manage their enterprises. 

Many small farmers work full-time jobs and farm on the side as a hobby, but with the right planning it’s still possible to make a full-time living from farming alone.

If you want to know more about getting into farming, start by asking a farmer about what their job entails. Do some research about what it will take to get started and maintain a farming lifestyle. Then look for property that will allow you to build your dream farm.

Remember, you can also go to the Department of Agriculture website to learn about farm grants and other ways to manage a farm’s start-up finances.

Starting Your Farming Business

Once you purchase your farm, you’ll need to buy or lease equipment and farm supplies. Some types of farming require large machinery, while others are basic and don’t require a huge upfront investment.

However, most farmers do have at least one tractor, regardless of their specialty. Buying a tractor is often much easier if you use a tractor transport, as is borrowing large machinery instead of taking out a loan for it.

If you have any questions about how to get started in farming, try to talk to a farmer who runs the type of farm you’d like to run, and get their advice. You can probably find books about running a farm, but nothing beats talking to someone directly who does what you’d like to do for a living.

Becoming a Farmer Is a Dream You Can Realize

If becoming a farmer is one of your most important goals in life, you can make it happen! Whether you quit your day job and jump in full-time, or run the farm as a part-time hobby, farming can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice.

If you’d like to read more about farming jobs, business products and services, starting a business, and more, check out the rest of our blog!