Novelist Paula Whyman wanted to leave her city life and find an acre or two of rural pasture to explore. Instead, she found herself trying to restore 200 acres of farmland on a Virginia mountain top.

Dec 4, 2024 · Adjusted for inflation, in 2024, the GCFI is forecast to be $577.1 billion, up from $422.7 billion in 2004. Family farms still account for the vast majority (97 percent) of all farming operations, and small family farms (with less than $350,000 in GCFI) make up 88 percent of all domestic farms.

Nov 13, 2024 · The tips are especially helpful for folks hoping to make a go of farming on smaller plots of land. Given the challenges in an industry dominated by factory farms, such as slim profit margins and little control over pricing and markets, between 52 percent and 79 percent of small family farms are at high financial risk. More than half of small farmers also have to work a …

Jan 3, 2025 · This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website.

Sep 3, 2024 · Transporting large amounts of flax straw long distances to be processed is costly and environmentally damaging. Grower Shannon Welsh, co-founder of Fibrevolution in Alsea, OR and executive director of the North American Linen Association (NALA), would like to see at least a few processing facilities in strategic growing regions—on the two coasts and in the …

Apr 10, 2023 · A quiet revolution is rolling across American farms—and it’s so hushed that you may have to strain your ears to hear it. Although diesel tractors are practically synonymous with farming, green technology is reshaping the relationship between farmers and these workhorses—and perhaps the nature of agriculture altogether.

Mar 27, 2022 · There are ways to improve soil health, control diseases and manage pests without applying heavy amounts of fertilizer or pesticides. For gardeners committed to growing several years into the future, crop rotation is one method to utilize.

Nov 20, 2024 · Great article! This guide really simplifies the journey for those of us curious about farming but not sure where to begin. From raising animals like chickens and pigs to growing profitable crops, the information is practical and easy to follow.

Jun 9, 2022 · Goji berries . Good news: You can still plant a superfood with limited water needs. Pick a spot with full-day sun. Goji berries can tolerate many types of soil, but they prefer an environment that is well-draining with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.0.

Sep 27, 2024 · The first container farm was installed in the store’s parking lot approximately a year and half ago. Built in Canada by Growcer and designed for the fluctuations in the Canadian climate, structural insulated panels keep cool air inside during the summer and make working conditions bearable in winter. Currently growing salad greens, cooking greens and herbs, …