Description

This is a concise yet complete handbook for starting a successful organic farm based on the community supported agriculture concept. Written for farmers and non-farmers alike, the book illustrates how two middle-aged novices are making a decent living on less than two acres of land. Bob and Bonnie found few resources applicable to their situation when they began researching making their farm dream a reality, and the book originally stemmed from their own desire to help others by sharing universal guidelines on small farm start-ups. The model explained in the book is an updated version of the diverse market gardens/farms found throughout recorded history. Not just a theory book, it details specific tools, techniques and how-to information. The Gregsons share sound advice along with specific tools, marketing techniques, and planning guidelines, such as start up requirements, business plan basics, the importance of value-added products, choosing the best equipment and supplies, and more. The core of their operation, the subscription system, is examined in detail, with sound recommendations and guidelines for implementation.ContentsCover PageTitle PageCopyrightDedicationForewordContentsIntroductionChapter 1 Our First Years on the FarmChapter 2 What Our Farm Does: An OverviewChapter 3 Key Factors to SuccessChapter 4 Start-Up RequirementsChapter 5 Overview of Equipment and SuppliesChapter 6 Setting Up the LandChapter 7 Marketing StrategyChapter 8 Crop Selection and PlanningChapter 9 Starting PlantsChapter 10 Operating a Subscription System FarmChapter 11 What’s Next?Chapter 12 Other Things to Talk AboutEpilogueAPPENDICESAppendix A Sources of MaterialsAppendix B Island Meadow Farm Crop Selection and Related DataAppendix C The Most Valuable PeriodicalsAppendix D Community Supported Agriculture Resource OrganizationsPaperback: 64 pagesPublisher: Acres USA (Oct. 1 2004)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 0911311785ISBN-13: 978-0911311785ASIN: B00V5KCZVQSource: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V5KCZVQ