Starting a Farm

From Scratch:
Resources to Invest in
Equipment and Infrastructure
A farmers’ decision tool to access funding,
consider risks, and plan for the future.

1
New Entry Sustainable Farming Project | Beverly, MA | December 2023
New Entry Sustainable Farming Project Table of Contents
733 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA 01915
www.nesfp.org Enterprise Selection.............................................4
December 2023 Production focus........................................................................5
Marketing plan...........................................................................10
This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number Budget..........................................................................................11
2021‐70027‐34693.
Food safety requirements...................................................... 12
Contacts...................................................................................... 13
Land Access.......................................................... 14
Finding available land.............................................................. 15
Suitability....................................................................................16
Text in this work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution- Financing and contacts........................................................... 17
NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. You are free to: Share—copy
Utilities and Energy............................................ 18
and redistribute the material in any medium or format; Adapt—remix, transform,
and build upon the material; Attribute - You must give appropriate credit, provide Water infrastructure................................................................19
a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. You may do so in any Electricity................................................................................... 22
reasonable manner, but not in any way that suggest the licensor endorses you or Energy conservation & renewable resources................... 23
your use; NonCommercial—You may not use the material for commercial purposes; Fuel.............................................................................................. 24
ShareAlike—If you remix, transform, or build upon the material, you must distribute
your contributions under the same license as the original. You may not apply legal Structures............................................................25
terms or technological measures that legally restrict others from doing anything Wash station............................................................................. 26
the license permits. For detailed information on the Creative Commons BY-NC-SA
Equipment storage.................................................................. 28
and other CC licenses, please visit the Creative Commons website:
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/. Fencing.......................................................................................30
Greenhouse & hoop house.................................................... 32
PHOTOGRAPHY & IMAGES Housing......................................................................................34
New Entry Sustainable Farming Project is largely responsible for photography Retail space & farm stand..................................................... 36
throughout the guide, except as noted. Pack sheds & coolers..............................................................38
Permission is required to use or reproduce photos, graphics, or other images. Livestock handling facilities..................................................40
Please contact New Entry for additional information, [email protected].
Equipment...........................................................42
SUGGESTED CITATION Selection.................................................................................... 43
Types of equipment................................................................44
Singer, Jacqueline, Maarit Ostrow, Madeleine Stein, Jennifer Pethan, Medina
Korajkić, Jennifer Hashley, and Benjamin Zoba. 2023. Starting a Farm from Scratch: Fuel and Maintenance............................................................46
A Decision Tool. Tufts University, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. Safety......................................................................................... 47
New Entry Sustainable Farming Project. Beverly, MA. Funding......................................................................................48

2
Introduction
To a beginning farmer, the project of establishing a working farm
at a new site can feel overwhelming. Depending on what resources
already exist at the property, the task of identifying, prioritizing,
and paying for needed improvements can be a difficult road to
cultivate productive farmland.
This tool is designed to help a farmer who is considering
establishing a farm at a new site to examine the scope of
improvements the site may require, to prioritize which upgrades
should be made, and to identify various organizations and funding
sources that might offer advice and/or financing for farm-related
improvements. Beginning with a section about selecting a farm
enterprise, this resource then addresses Land Access, Utilities and
Energy, Structures, and Equipment.
This tool is designed with farmers in Massachusetts specifically
in mind, but many of the elements considered are applicable to
farmers in other states, as many of the MA-based organizations
and resources have parallels in other states as well. Each
section below will include 1) Key Considerations and Questions,
2) Resources, and 3) Contacts related to that section, and some
sections will also have 4) Financing information as well.
This is not an exhaustive list of key considerations and resources
associated with starting or improving a farm on a new site.
Hopefully the information provided will prove valuable to farmers
as they undertake the important and demanding work of creating
the conditions by which a property can generate value for the
community and provide a sustainable income for the producer.

3
Enterprise Selection
• What will your farm focus on?
• What will you produce?
• How will you sell your products?
• How profitable might your farm business be?

It is important to determine your farm focus before you

consider buying or leasing land because what you plan to
produce will affect the type of land and infrastructure your
business will require. On the other hand, if one acquires (e.g.
inherits) land first, the land and location might determine
what the farm production focus should be and through
which market channels products will be sold.
While profitable farm enterprises involve planning
and budgeting, farmers regularly revisit the process of
determining what exactly to produce and through which
channels to sell as time goes on and they interpret their
financial records and explore new market opportunities.
Business planning is an iterative process, you may find
yourself revisiting your enterprise selection multiple times.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS

Production focus Marketing plan Budget

Food safety requirements Contacts

4
Production Focus
What will your farm produce?

The type of products you will grow or raise is a key

factor in determining the infrastructure requirements
for your farm. A focused approach can make for a
more cost-effective and efficient operation. When
deciding on a focus for your farm, consider location,
climate, seasonality, amount of land available, costs,
infrastructure requirements, efficiency, profitability,
resources, personal preference, and sustainability.

CATEGORIES

Vegetables Small fruits/berries Grain Orchards

Greenhouse crops & floriculture Nursery Livestock

ENTERPRISE SELECTION production 5

Vegetables Small fruit/berries
Vegetable production can produce a higher profit margin than Small fruit and berry plants produce a harvest faster than tree fruit
other farm enterprises, especially when selling direct to consumer, orchards, but most still require at least a year before they produce,
but vegetable production tends to be more labor-intensive and so one should budget accordingly. Small fruit crops generally like
requires fertile soil. Typically a wash station and cooler storage are well-drained soils, and some require specific soil conditions (e.g.
features of vegetable operations, and many vegetable farms have blueberries grow in acidic soils and cranberries in bogs).
a greenhouse and an irrigation system as well.
Small Fruit Best Management Small Fruits
Vegetable Production FAQ New England Vegetable Practices A website resource by
A PDF guide by University of Massachusetts University of Maine
A website resource by University of Management Guide,
Amherst Extension, Center for Agriculture, Cooperative Extension.
Massachusetts Amherst Extension, 2023–2024
Food and the Environment. extension.umaine.edu/
Center for Agriculture, Food and the A PDF guide by University of
ag.umass.edu/resources/agriculture-resources agriculture/small-fruits
Environment. Massachusetts Amherst Extension,
ag.umass.edu/resources/ University of Connecticut College
agriculture-resources of Agriculture, Health and Natural
Resources Extension, University Maine Wild Cranberries
of New Hampshire Cooperative Blueberries A website by University of Maine Cooperative
Extension, University of Vermont
Vegetable Production An interactive website Extension allows you to navigate across any
Extension, University of Rhode Island
Guide for Commercial by University of Maine topic related to cultivating cranberries.
Cooperative Extension, University of
Growers, 2022–2023 Cooperative Extension extension.umaine.edu/cranberries/grower-
Maine Cooperative Extension.
that will let you explore all services/diseases
A PDF guide by University of Kentucky, nevegetable.org topics related to growing
College of Agriculture, Food, and
blueberries.
Environment Cooperative Extension.
anr.ca.uky.edu/horticulture-publications
extension.umaine.edu/ Cranberry Production
blueberries
New England Vegetable A PDF guide by University of
Management Guide: Crops Massachusetts Amherst Extension.
An interactive website version of ag.umass.edu/resources/agriculture-resources
Northeast Organic Grower Growing Grapes
the PDF above by University of
Crop Manual Massachusetts Amherst Extension.
in Vermont
A PDF guide by Northeast Sustainable A PDF guide by University
nevegetable.org/crops Cranberry Production:
Agriculture Research & Education. of Vermont, College of
Agriculture and Life Science. A Guide for MA
northeast.sare.org
uvm.edu/extension/ A PDF guide by University of
commercial Massachusetts Amherst Extension.
ag.umass.edu/resources/agriculture-resources

ENTERPRISE SELECTION production resources 6

Grains Orchards
In the Northeast, small grains play a key role in crop rotations, Trees are tolerant of a wide range of well-drained soils and some
and they can produce profitable yields under the right conditions. fruit trees do well on somewhat sloped land. Orchard operations
Grain and straw can be sold or used on the farm. Equipment worth require an investment of time and money up front and won’t provide
considering for growing grain in New England include a combine a marketable harvest for a few years after planting, but they can
and storage/drying equipment. produce a steady harvest for many years after that if well-maintained.

Top Ten Factors to Consider Grains, Pulses, & Orchard Best Management UVM’s Apple
Before Growing Grains Oilseeds Practices Manual Program
A PDF guide by The Northern Grain Growers A website resource by A website with PDF guides by University of A PDF resource by University
Association. University of Maine Massachusetts Amherst Extension. of Vermont Extension that
northerngraingrowers.org/growers Cooperative Extension. ag.umass.edu/resources/agriculture-resources lists resources and provides
extension.umaine.edu/grains- a guide to apple growing for
oilseeds/topics beginners, including where
to find fruit tree nurseries
Sustainable Agriculture’s Growing Tree Fruits in Maine and contact information for
Small Grain Organic technical assistance.
A website resource by University of Maine
Production Overview Field Crops Cooperative Extension. uvm.edu/extension/
An online publication by ATTRA. A website by Cornell College of commercial/treefruit
extension.umaine.edu/fruit/growing-fruit-
attra.ncat.org/publication/organic-small- Agriculture and Life Sciences trees-in-maine
grain-production-overview that provides extension-
based information about
management of grains,
forages, and soybean crops. New England Tree Fruit Management Guide
The Northern Grain Growers A website resource by University of Massachusetts Amherst Extension,
cals.cornell.edu/field-crops
Association University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural
A website by The Northern Grain Growers Resources Extension, University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension,
Association with resources available under University of Vermont Extension, University of Rhode Island Cooperative
the “Growers” drop-down menu for grains Growing Organic Extension, University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
including planting, harvesting, management, Cereal Grains in the netreefruit.org
processing, storage, equipment, and more. Northeast
northerngraingrowers.org A PDF guide by University of
Maine Cooperative Extension.
extension.umaine.edu/
publications/2207e

ENTERPRISE SELECTION production resources 7

Greenhouse Crops Nursery
& Floriculture There are three types of nurseries: field, container, and horticulture
distribution centers or holding areas. Each type has advantages
Greenhouses provide increased climate and pest control, and they and disadvantages, and many nurseries use a combination of the
can facilitate intensive production on relatively small space. As for three systems.
utilities, greenhouses often require heat, electricity, and water.

Best Management
Greenhouse Crops FAQ Types of Practices for Nursery
Greenhouses Crops
A PDF guide by University of Massachusetts
Amherst Extension. A website resource by University of
A PDF guide from
Massachusetts Amherst Extension.
ag.umass.edu/resources/agriculture- the Greenhouse BMP
resources/farm-specific-faqs Manual by University ag.umass.edu/landscape/
of Massachusetts publications-resources/best-
Amherst Extension. management-practices-bmps-for-
nursery-crops
ag.umass.edu/
greenhouse-floriculture

Nursery Fact Sheets

A website resource by University of
The New Massachusetts Extension Greenhouse
England Crops and Floriculture Program that
Greenhouse provides fact sheets on best practices
Floriculture in greenhouse management,
energy management, diseases, pest
Guide identification and IPM, nutrition,
A website resource nursery crops, engineering design,
by University of water, weeds, and other topics.
Connecticut.
ag.umass.edu/greenhouse-
greenhouseguide. floriculture/fact-sheets
cahnr.uconn.edu

ENTERPRISE SELECTION production resources 8

Livestock
Livestock can utilize marginal land but often require year-round care
and infrastructure to shelter the animals and store feed.

Livestock Factsheets Forage and Grazing

A website resource by University of Factsheets
Massachusetts Amherst Extension. A website resource by University
ag.umass.edu/crops-dairy-livestock- of Massachusetts Amherst
equine/fact-sheets/livestock Extension.
ag.umass.edu/crops-dairy-
livestock-equine/fact-sheets/
forage-and-grazing
Manure and Nutrient
Management Factsheets
A website resource by University of
Massachusetts Extension Crops, Dairy, Livestock
Livestock and Equine Program. A website resource by ATTRA
ag.umass.edu/crops-dairy-livestock- with multi-media resources
equine/fact-sheets/manure-and-nutrient- for many topics relating to
management livestock, including caring
and managing ruminants and
pastures, meat processing, and
Resources on Poultry, Small marketing.

Livestock and Agroforestry attra.ncat.org/livestock

Operations
An online modular learning program
developed by the University of Arkansas
Division of Agriculture hosted on ATTRA
that covers all aspects of starting a
livestock operation, available in both
English an Spanish.
attra.ncat.org/uofa

ENTERPRISE SELECTION production resources 9

 Market Planning for Value-Added Agricultural

Marketing Plan
Products Workbook
A website resource by University of New Hamphire Cooperative Extension.
extension.unh.edu/resource/market-planning-value-added-agricultural-

How and to whom will you sell products-workbook

your products?
Assessing Your Market Potential
A website resource by Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Use
this as a thought exercise to cement your business plan and position in the
Once you have an idea of what you’ll market as you start your business.
produce, do some research within the region smallfarms.cornell.edu/2017/05/37-assessing-your-market-potential

in which you’d like to sell your goods and

try to determine the demand in that region
for your product. Also, identify your target Viability of Farmers Markets for Direct Marketing Farmers
A website resource by Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
audience and strategize about how you will
smallfarms.cornell.edu/2016/10/viability-of-farmers-markets-for-direct-marketing-
reach them in order to facilitate adequate farmers
sales. Be willing to adapt your production
focus if your assessment of market
SWOT Analysis for Farm Business Planning
opportunities reveals other opportunities.
A PDF guide by University of Vermont Extension.
uvm.edu/extension/agriculture/uvm-agricultural-business-resource-library

Farm Viability Dairy Farm SWOT Analysis Worksheet

A PDF guide by University of Vermont Extension.
uvm.edu/extension/agriculture/uvm-agricultural-business-resource-library

ENTERPRISE SELECTION marketing resources 10

 Budget Understand the cost requirements of your
What will it cost and how production focus, make informed income
much can I make? projections, and develop a budget.

Enterprise Budgets Crop Budgets Farm Business Consulting

A one-pager that introduces enterprise A list of resources for starting to and Coaching
budgets and their importance as well as a list develop a crop enterprise budget Explore getting 1-on-1 Coaching or Business
of online resources by New Entry Sustainable by New England Vegetable Consulting from The Carrot Project.
Farming Project. Management Guide.
thecarrotproject.org/farmers-food-
nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/farmer-training/library nevegetable.org/cultural- producers/#coaching
practices/crop-budgets

Crop Resources Livestock and Dairy Resources

Farm Viability Financial Workbook Farm Viability Financial Workbook
for Vegetable or Diversified Farms for Dairy or Livestock Farms
uvm.edu/extension/agriculture/uvm-agricultural- uvm.edu/extension/agriculture/uvm-
business-resource-library agricultural-business-resource-library

Crop Crop Production Crop Budgets and Budget Estimator: Budget Estimator:
Budgets Budgets Prices, Leases, Beef Dairy
agrisk.umn. ag.umass.edu/ Labor, Starting a canr.msu.edu/resources/ canr.msu.edu/resources/
edu/Budgets vegetable/fact-sheets/ Business livestock-budget-estimator- livestock-budget-estimator-
crop-production- beef-simple dairy-simple
uvm.edu/extension/
budgets
commercial/resources

ENTERPRISE SELECTION budget resources 11

 Know the food safety risks,
Food Safety regulations, and support systems
that are relevant to your production.

Requirements Good agricultural practices are

essential for the continuation of your
What do I need to consider for the operation and therefore should be
health of my customers? prioritized in planning.

Food Safety for Farmers Food Safety Plan Template Food Safety
A website resource by University of A website resource by Community A website resource library
Massachusetts Amherst Extension. Alliance with Family Farms. by National Sustainable
Agriculture Coalition that
ag.umass.edu/resources/food-safety/ caff.org/organic-certification/food-
allows you to filter by topic
food-safety-for-farmers safety-plan-templates
and media to find the best
information about food
safety on the farm.
Young Farmers Food Safety Agricultural sustainableagriculture.net/
Resources Food Safety our-work/issues/food-safety

A website resource library by National Young Improvement

Farmers Coalition that allows you to filter by Program (AFSIP)
topic and media to find the best information A website resource by
Farm Food Safety
about food safety on the farm. Massachusetts Department A website resource
youngfarmers.org/fsma-resources of Agricultural Resources. by Cornell College of
This program aims to Agriculture and Life
reimburse farmer efforts Sciences. Use this decision
to maximize food safety tree to identify issues
Interactive Guide to the Food protocols and increase on your operation and
Safety Modernization Act for market access. prioritize modifying
Local Food Businesses and Farms mass.gov/how-to/ practices for food safety.
A website resource by Carolina Farm agricultural-food-safety- smallfarms.cornell.
Stewardship Association. improvement-program-afsip edu/2016/10/viability-of-
farmers-markets-for-direct-
carolinafarmstewards.org/interactive-pcr-guide- marketing-farmers
fall-2019

ENTERPRISE SELECTION food safety requirement resources 12

Contacts
GENERAL SUPPORT TRAINING FOOD SAFETY
USDA Service Centers New Entry Farm Business Food Safety For Farmers
Find your local USDA Service Center. They Planning Course Contact: Lisa McKeag, [email protected]
are locations where you can connect with E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 413-577-3976
Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/farmer-training/farm- ag.umass.edu/resources/food-safety/food-safety-
Conservation Service, or Rural Development business-planning for-farmers
employees for your business needs.
offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app MDAR Agricultural Business MDAR Agricultural Food Safety
Training Program Improvement Program
MA Small Business
Contact: Jessica Camp, [email protected] Contact: Laura Maul, [email protected]
Development Center
E-mail: 617-823-0871 mass.gov/how-to/agricultural-food-safety-
Phone: 413-545-6301 improvement-program-afsip
mass.gov/info-details/agricultural-business-
msbdc.org training-program-abtp
MDAR Produce Safety Education
& Technical Assistance
GETTING STARTED FINANCIAL PLANNING Contact: Steven Pilis, [email protected]
Phone: 774-419-1804
The US Small Business Administration The Carrot Project mass.gov/info-details/produce-safety-education-
E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] technical-assistance
Phone: 1-800-827-5722 Phone: 617-674-2371
sba.gov thecarrotproject.org

FROM A FARMER: DANIELA

“I started the process of registering my farm business with the
Farm Service Agency on my own, but when I had questions
about the paperwork I decided to reach out to my local FSA
representative for assistance. He walked me through the
paperwork and made the process so much easier!”

ENTERPRISE SELECTION contacts Return to table of contents 13

Land Access
Finding farmland to lease or purchase in New England
can be a difficult task, and success doing so often
requires patience, persistence, and a multi-faceted
approach. Below are some key considerations, questions,
and resources related to finding/assessing land and
deciding whether to lease or buy.

Financing
The decision to lease, license, or buy is dependent on several factors
including affordability, access to capital, your farming goals, and the
stage of your career. For example, if you are:

• A beginning farmer still figuring out where and what to farm and
with little access to capital, consider a short-term lease to see if the
property is suitable while avoiding taking on debt.
• An established farmer who already possesses property, looking for a
small parcel to experiment with a new crop, consider licensing a field
from a nearby landowner.
• An experienced farmer with a successful business model and access
to capital, you may be ready to purchase land outright, through
financing, or in partnership with others.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS

Finding Available Land Suitability Financing Contacts

14
Are there organizations* Legal Structures
locally that assist in There are many ways to structure agreements to hold
land (land tenure). It is very important to have a written
finding available land? document to secure your use of the land prior to securing
loans or making investments in your farm. Be sure the
*such as land trusts or conservation commissions
length of the land agreement matches the timeline of
your investment, loan, or grant funding.
Toolbox for Farm Seekers
A website by Land for Good that offers guides, worksheets, articles and other
resources to inform decision-making and guide in the search for farmland. Accessing FarmLand Build-a-Lease-Tool
landforgood.org/resources Together landforgood.org/lease-tool-
landforgood.org/resources/ login
toolbox/toolbox-farm-seekers
Farm Access Methods Guide
A resource guide by Land for Good that offers more information on the advantages, Information for
disadvantages, and legal considerations for approaching finding land. Overview of Farm and Borrowers
landforgood.org/resources Ranch Leases equitytrust.org/for-borrowers
nationalaglawcenter.org/
research-by-topic/ag-leases
Farm Access Decision Tool Farm Loan Discovery
A course by Land for Good that guides decision making, the legal vehicles, and the Tool
parties involved in land agreements. Microloans
farmers.gov/loans/farm-loan-
sba.gov/funding-programs/ discovery-tool
landforgood.org/resources
loans/microloans

New England Farm Finder (NEFF) Agricultural

Massachusetts Urban Conservation
A website by New England Farm Link Collaborative to search for available farmland
and connect with other farmers looking for land through this database. Agriculture Program Easement Program
mass.gov/how-to/apply-for- nrcs.usda.gov/programs-
newenglandfarmlandfinder.org the-urban-agriculture-program initiatives

Finding Farmland Course

A course by Young Farmers Coalition includes articles, videos, podcasts, activities, and Finding Farmland
resources to make financial decisions related to accessing farmland. Calculator
youngfarmers.org/finding-farmland-course youngfarmers.org/land-
access/calculator

LAND ACCESS resources 15

Have you researched the property’s Location &
Climate Change
suitability for your business? As you search for suitable
farmland, be sure to consider the
Farm Rental Assessment Checklist uvm.edu/newfarmer/land/checklist.pdf effects of a changing climate.
Some properties that have
heavy clay soils or a high water
Soil Quality Access to Markets Climate Zone table may be impacted by more
common heavy rains/floods.
It is highly recommended to Determine if the land provides The local climate has a major Properties with sandy, well-
assess the soil on the land prior nearby access to markets that impact on production and can drained soils may be challenging
to investing. Soil type, structure, would be interested in purchasing determine whether or not a crop in drought conditions. Consider
composition, and fertility your product. If there is nearby will be successful in a given region. climate impacts as you plan your
serve as the basis of crop access, assess what products are future enterprises.
production and therefore are already available to determine
critical considerations for your your market niche. Water Sources
Single Family Housing
enterprise to be successful. Take
Identify the available sources of Programs
care to assess prior land uses
water on the land. Once you have rd.usda.gov/programs-services/
that may reveal contamination Scale determined your farms’ enterprises, single-family-housing-programs
or other concerns (lead, PFAS,
How much land is available and you can determine the water needs
fuel storage, etc.).
how much would your operation of your operation. Consider rainfall Community Support for Ag
require to be successful? Identify patterns, groundwater levels, access Checklist
RESOURCES
if the land provides opportunities to a well, or nearby surface water farmlandinfo.org/sample_
Soil and Plant Nutrient like ponds, lakes, or reservoirs.
for scaling if that’s a future documents/community-support-
Testing Laboratory Permitting may be required to
consideration for the business. for-ag-checklist
ag.umass.edu/services/soil-plant-
access surface water and installing
nutrient-testing-laboratory
wells requires electricity. Take care Climate Smart Farming
Web Soil Survey Zoning Regulations to consider wetlands, which have Tools
websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov protected status. Farms of different
climatesmartfarming.org/tools
Confirm with local zoning scales have different water needs,
board representatives that therefore it is important to identify
the land can be used for your how you will meet the water needs Is Your Town Farm Friendly?
desired purposes. of your operation. nhmunicipal.org/town-city-
magazine

LAND ACCESS suitability resources 16

Contacts
GENERAL SUPPORT FINDING LAND FINANCING
USDA Service Centers Farmland Information Farm Service Agency: Farm Ownership Loans
Find your local USDA Service Center. They Center: Connect with The USDA Farm Ownership Loans (FSA) offer up to 100 percent
are locations where you can connect with Ag Service Providers financing to help farmers and ranchers purchase or enlarge farms.
Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Find land to start or expand fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/farm-
Conservation Service, or Rural Development your farm or ranch. ownership-loans
employees for your business needs.
farmlandinfo.org/find-farmland
farmers.gov/working-with-us/USDA-service-
centers#find-service
Farm Credit East
Farm & Ranch Farm Credit East makes working capital investments for startup
FSA farm and ranch property search. farms and ag businesses with limited financial resources.
FROM A FARMER: JORGE properties.sc.egov.usda.gov/resales/ farmcrediteast.com/en/FINANCING/Beginning-Farmer-Programs
public/searchFSA
Jorge called Farm Credit East
to conduct a farm visit before The Carrot Project
he started growing anything Loans are available for businesses that may not be able to obtain
LEGAL SUPPPORT financing elsewhere in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut,
and inquire about loans for his
New Hampshire, and Maine.
farm operation. After a little Farm Transfer Network of
New England thecarrotproject.org/farmers-food-producers
bit of paperwork and a very
helpful staff, Farm Credit East Locate service providers.
disbursed the loan in less than 2 farmtransfernewengland.org/providers
Farm Bureau Financial Services
months. Their quick application Find an agent or financial advisor.
turnover and timeline allowed fbfs.com/find-an-agent

for Jorge to request another

loan for equipment. Jorge U.S. Small Business Administration
warns that the interest rates SBA helps small businesses get loans.
are higher than FSA loans, but sba.gov/funding-programs/loans
they’re not that bad compared
to how easy it is to apply.
Overall, Jorge says that “it’s a
great program and…they have
been very helpful.”

LAND ACCESS contacts Return to table of contents 17

Utilities and Energy
Your farm operation will require energy resources to
operate effectively. Installing these on raw land or
upgrading existing utilities can be expensive, so one
should budget for this if needed. Below are some key
considerations, questions, and resources related to
water, electricity, energy conservation, and fuel.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS

Water Infrastructure Electricity

Energy Conservation & Renewable Resources Fuel

18
Water Infrastructure CATEGORIES

Does your property have a water source that meets all your needs? Irrigation Funding

In general, water usage falls into two categories: production and post-harvest. Water quality & testing
Production includes irrigation, fertigation, and crop spraying. Post-harvest
includes washing, cooling, hand washing, and cleaning products that contact Contacts
equipment. Sources of water for your farm may include the following:

Wells Municipal Water Surface Water

If there is already a well on your property and it is Municipal water is tested It may be possible to pump water from a stream,
in good condition this will likely be the cheapest by the town and should river, or pond on or near your property. In addition
and most reliable source of water. However, if be safe for production to purchasing the pump itself, you will likely need
there is no well on the property digging one and post-harvest use. It is power to run the pump. Often surface water is
can be expensive. Well pumps usually require recommended to keep a regulated by the town. You will need to check if
electricity so running power to the well may be copy of the town’s testing pumping is legal and whether it requires a permit.
an additional cost. If it meets microbiological records on file. Municipal Surface water is generally not safe for washing
standards well water is safe for both production water is expensive; produce but might be usable for irrigation.
and post-harvest use. State of Massachusetts however, some towns will State of Massachusetts food safety guidelines
food safety guidelines recommend testing well charge a reduced rate for recommend testing surface water at least three
water at least twice per season. agricultural use. times per growing season.

UTILITIES AND ENERGY water infrastructure 19

Irrigation Water Quality & Testing
Considering Irrigation Irrigation System Water Quality A Water Quality Toolkit for
Water Sources Design Practices & Resources Greenhouse and Nursery
A website with a downlodable PDF A PDF guide created by Global A website resource by USDA. Production
resource by Michigan State University Gardens Refugee Agriculture farmers.gov/conservation/ A website resource by PennState Extension.
Extension. Program and ISED Solutions. water-quality extension.psu.edu/water
canr.msu.edu/agrifood_safety/resources This guide will assist trainers
who want to teach non-literate
and/or non-English speaking
farmers about how to select
Agricultural Water Agricultural Water for
the best irrigation system A webpage by University of Production: Decision Tree
(flood, drip, or overhead Massachusetts Amherst Center A website resource by Cornell
sprinkler) for their situation. for Agriculture, Food, and the College of Agriculture and Life
nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/ Environment with recommendations Sciences.
resources/irrigation-2-irrigation- and resources for how to maintain cals.cornell.edu/national-good-
system-design food safe water sources on the farm. agricultural-practices-program/
ag.umass.edu/resources/food-safety/ resources/educational-materials/
for-farmers/agricultural-water decision-trees

Sustainable Irrigation:
A Beginner’s Guide
FROM A FARMER: MARGARET
An online tutorial series by
ATTRA. Learn how to take Through virtual farmer networking
care of the water sources that events, Margaret found out about
irrigate your farming operation
with this lesson.
USDA NRCS EQIP funded high tunnel
projects for which she would be eligible.
attra.ncat.org/sustainable-
irrigation-a-beginners-guide Though the process took about a year
and she had to take money out of her
Irrigation on Small Farms own pocket before she was reimbursed,
An archived webinar series by she managed to get the high tunnels
Michigan State University Extension. installed with volunteer help.
Discover irrigation infrastructure for
Margaret encourages other farmers to
your small operation.
communicate with each other to hear
canr.msu.edu/videos/irrigation-on-
small-farms about more opportunities they can take
advantage of on their farms.
UTILITIES AND ENERGY water infrastructure resources 20
 There are several cost-share programs available to support the installation of
Funding utilities and energy resources available through federal and state grant programs.

USDA FSA (Farm Service Agency) Loans USDA NRCS AMA (Agricultural Management Assistance)
The USDA FSA loan program offers operating loans up to $400,000 AMA funds can be used to improve water management or install irrigation
which can be used to invest in utilities or other energy needs. structures and to improve water quality.
fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/farm-operating-loans nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/ama-agricultural-management-assistance

USDA NRCS EQIP (Environmental Quality USDA Rural Development: Water and
Incentives Program) Environmental Programs
EQIP funds can be used for improving water conservation Rural Development funds may support clean drinking
practices and mitigate drought concerns. water and waste water projects for rural communities.
nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/eqip-environmental-quality-incentives rd.usda.gov/programs-services/water-environmental-programs

Contacts

USDA Service Centers UMass Center for Agriculture, Food, and USDA Natural Resources
the Environment Conservation Service
Find your local USDA Service Center. They are locations
(NRCS)
where you can connect with Farm Service Agency, E-mail: [email protected] | Phone: 413-545-4800
Natural Resources Conservation Service, or Rural Or, use the staff directory (ag.umass.edu/directory) nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-basics/
Development employees for your business needs. to find a specific contact. conservation-by-state
farmers.gov/working-with-us/USDA-service-centers#find- ag.umass.edu/about/contact-information
service NRCS: Massachusetts

UTILITIES AND ENERGY water infrastructure resources 21

 Is the property hooked up to the power grid? What will be required

Electricity to get electricity to the locations onsite where you hope to place
structures that require electricity (e.g. greenhouses or coolers)?

Agricultural Discount Farm Energy Discount Program Installing Farm and Ranch Backup
In some states, utilities will offer a The MDAR Farm Energy Discount Program provides Power Generators
reduced rate to farms if they meet discounts on electricity and natural gas bills of 10% to A website article by American Family
certain conditions. eligible entities engaged in production agriculture. Insurance about farm and ranch generator
nationalgridus.com/agricultural-discount mass.gov/guides/agricultural-grants-and-financial- safety and maintenance.
assistance-programsproduction%20agriculture amfam.com/resources/articles/on-the-farm

FROM A FARMER: DAVID

David applied for and was awarded a
USDA Rural Development REAP (Rural Contacts
Energy for Agriculture Programs)
grant twice; once for a heating and USDA Service Centers USDA Rural
cooling system for his pack shed and Find your local USDA Development Area
Office Locator
the second one for a solar array to Service Center. They are
locations where you can
power those heating and cooling rd.usda.gov/find-your-
connect with Farm Service local-area-office
systems in the pack shed. David Agency, Natural Resources
recalls the applications being very Conservation Service, MDAR Energy
long and requiring many details to be or Rural Development Programs
approved. When approved he received employees for your
E-mail: Gerald.Palano@
business needs.
approximately 25% of the maximum mass.gov
offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/
grant allotment. He was able to pair locator/app
Phone: 617-571-4969
the REAP grant award with a state- mass.gov/info-details/
mdar-energy-programs
funded MDAR Energy grant to make
the investment viable and execute his
energy projects.

UTILITIES AND ENERGY electricity resources 22

 Energy Conservation & It is important to track your current
energy usage and identify the

Renewable Resources best practices for conserving and

increasing efficiency on your farm.

Energy Self-Assessment Energy Funding

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Checklist PHONE & INTERNET ACCESS
(NRCS) Self-Assessment tools can help you estimate A checklist of ways For farmers that are
energy use on your farm as well as how much you might to conserve energy looking to make voluntary Telecommunications
produce from renewable sources. in your greenhouse improvements in energy Infrastructure Loans
energytools.sc.egov.usda.gov/ by University of and Loan Guarantees
efficiency on the farm.
Massachusetts rd.usda.gov/programs-services/
Amherst Extension. MDAR Climate telecommunications-programs
Renewable Energy Production on Farms ag.umass.edu/ Smart Agriculture
greenhouse- Rural Broadband
A brief guide to various renewable energy sources you floriculture
Program
might consider installing on your farm by University of Loans
mass.gov/how-to/how-
Massachusetts Amherst Extension. to-apply-to-the-climate- rd.usda.gov/programs-
smart-agriculture-program services/telecommunications-
ag.umass.edu/crops-dairy-livestock-equine/fact-sheets
programs
Energy
Conservation EQIP On-Farm
and Efficiency Energy Initiative Community
Returns on Farm Energy Connect Program
nrcs.usda.gov/programs-
Renewable Energy A website resource Learn how to reduce initiatives/on-farm- rd.usda.gov/community-
Investments by ATTRA. Learn your energy costs energy-initiative connect
about different with this guide and
A report on the benefits
sustainable energy list of resources
and challenges of investing
opportunities, by University of
in small-scale renewable
Massachusetts
energy systems by ATTRA. including agrisolar
Amherst Extension. Contacts
and bioenergy.
attra.ncat.org/publication/
ag.umass.edu/ USDA Service USDA Rural MDAR Energy
returns-on-renewable- attra.ncat.org/farm-
crops-dairy-livestock-
energy-investments energy
equine/fact-sheets
Centers Development Area Programs
offices.sc.egov. Office Locator mass.gov/info-
usda.gov/locator/ rd.usda.gov/find-your- details/mdar-
app local-area-office energy-programs

UTILITIES AND ENERGY energy conservation & renewable resources 23

 Will you need natural gas or propane to connect to a heated greenhouse? If so, is there a
Fuel municipal gas hook-up to the property, or will you contract a provider and buy or lease a
tank from them? Determine how much fuel your farm needs to operate your equipment
and consider strategies for conserving fuel. Depending on your farm’s gasoline/diesel
fuel usage and distance from a gas station, a fuel storage tank may benefit your farm,
but be aware of state and city/town regulations regarding fuel storage tanks.

Practical Guide: Optimizing Farm Fuel Tanks: Estimating Fuel Contact

Tractor Fuel Use What are the options? Requirements for Field
Operations For regulations
A website resource by Farming For a Better Climate. A webpage by FES Tanks. regarding fuel
farmingforabetterclimate.org/resource/optimising- festanks.com.au/blog/ A website resource by Purdue storage tanks,
tractor-fuel-use farm-fuel-tanks University Cooperative Extension. contact your local
extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/AE/ Fire Department.
AE-110.html

How to Decrease On- The Farmers’ Handbook for

Farm Expenses Energy Self-Reliance
A website resource by Energy A Guide by The Institute for Energy and Tanks and Containers Farm Energy
Improvement Matters. the Environment at Vermont Law School The code of Massachusetts Efficiency
eimgrants.com/how-to-decrease- to Using Energy Efficiency,Biomass, and Regulations 527 regarding tanks Tutorials
on-farm-expenses Renewable Energy on the Farm. and containers for fuel from the A series of lessons to
ccetompkins.org/resources Massachusetts Department of reduce energy use by
Environmental Protection. ATTRA. This identifies
mass.gov/doc/527-cmr-900-tanks- different ways that
containers/download farmers can reduce
energy consumption
Above Ground Storage Tanks on farms.
attra.ncat.org/tutorial-
Below Ground Storage Tanks farm-energy-efficiency

UTILITIES AND ENERGY fuel resources Return to table of contents 24

Structures
Depending on the nature of your farm operation,
you may need certain buildings or structures to
facilitate efficient production. Below is a list of key
considerations, questions, and resources related to
wash stations, equipment storage structures, fencing,
greenhouses/hoop houses, housing, retail space,
coolers, and livestock handling facilities.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS

Wash Station Equipment Storage Fencing

Greenhouse & Hoop House Housing Retail Space & Farm Stand

Pack Sheds & Cold Storage Livestock Handling Facilities

25
Wash Station
Do you want a very basic/inexpensive wash station or something a bit more
permanent and built-out? Will you be washing a lot of cut greens and need
electricity at the wash station to power an electric salad spinner or drying fans?
How will you design the system to efficiently move products to a cooler or your
transportation vehicles?

Materials Design Safety and Sanitation

Choose materials that are Set up the wash station to allow for Familiarize yourself with wash station use and
easiest to clean, such as movement of produce/equipment maintenance best practices, including the Food
stainless steel or plastic. from dirty to clean without any Safety Modernization Act’s Postharvest Handling
overlap in routes. An L-shaped or and Sanitation Rules.
U-shaped design is a great way to
ensure this dirty-to-clean flow.
Location
Financing
Select a site on level ground,
that is in close/convenient If you don’t currently have enough capital to start
Size
proximity to an approved your wash station construction, there are many
water source, produce Make sure the structure is large enough grant and loan opportunities you can apply to, such
storage, and coolers. for all equipment and storage. as those listed below.

STRUCTURES wash station 26

 Wash Station Resources
Building the Leopold Center GAP-Certifiable Vegetable Wash Funding
Station: Notes and Modifications
MDAR Matching Enterprise USDA Farm Service
An PDF document by New Entry Sustainable Farming Project that describes the
Grants for Agriculture Agency Loan
Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) compliant vegetable wash station at one of New
(MEGA) Assistance Tool
Entry’s incubator farm sites in Dracut, MA, including modifications that were made
to the original design, developed by the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture. mass.gov/info-details/matching- lat.fpac.usda.gov
enterprise-grants-for-agriculture-mega
nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/farmer-training/library

Massachusetts Department USDA Farm

of Agricultural Resources Storage Facility
Ideal Produce Vegetable Loan Program
(MDAR) Agricultural
Wash Station Wash Station Food Safety Improvement sustainableagriculture.
for Small Scale Design Program (AFSIP)
net/publications/
Farmers grassrootsguide/credit-
A website resource mass.gov/how-to/agricultural-food- crop-insurance/farm-
A PDF guide by by Leopold Center safety-improvement-program-afsip storage-facility-loans
University of Arizona for Sustainable
Cooperative Extension. Agriculture. MDAR Farm Viability Farm Credit East
extension.arizona.edu leopold.iastate.edu/ Enhancement Program Grants and Loans
cool_tools (FVEP) farmcrediteast.com/
mass.gov/info-details/farm-viability- financing/beginning-
enhancement-program-fvep farmer-programs
Post-Harvest Handling Do I Need to Comply With the
& Sanitation FSMA Produce Rule?
A website resource by A website resource by University of
University of Massachusetts Massachusetts Amherst Center for Contacts
Amherst Center for Agriculture, Agriculture, Food, and the Environment.
UMass Extension MDAR Produce USDA
Food, and the Environment. ag.umass.edu/resources/food-safety/for-
Vegetable Safety Service
ag.umass.edu/resources/food- farmers/fsma-produce-rule
safety/food-safety-for-farmers
Production Inspection Team Centers
Program Phone: 774-419-1801 offices.
sc.egov.usda.
Phone: 413-577-3976 mass.gov/info-details/ gov/locator/
ag.umass.edu/vegetable produce-safety- app
inspection-program

STRUCTURES wash station resources 27

Equipment Storage
Covered storage space can help protect equipment and extend its lifespan.
Storage options range in size and cost, and the following key considerations and
resources are to help you find one that matches your needs and budget. If you’re
looking for land to lease that includes a building for equipment storage (or other
infrastructure), expect to pay more than for raw land.

Cost Efficiency Accessibility

Storage buildings such as barns can be expensive to build and maintain, Maximize the amount of storage Store items so that they
so consider the cost of a permanent building versus temporary storage space available, including can be retrieved easily,
structures or dual use structures (high tunnels or run in shelters) as you overhead, by using racks, including by keeping
assess your enterprise storage needs. Pre-fabricated options may also shelves, pallet stacking, etc. aisles wide enough
offer savings. See more details in the resources below. and clear.

Storage time frame Size Permitting Organization

Are you storing equipment for If you are constructing a new Consult with your building Small items should
an extended period of time (e.g., storage building, calculate the inspector or local planning office be stored in bins
season) or just on a daily basis? floor space and building height to obtain the required permits or containers with
This will help determine the location required for equipment and for building or renovating your labels.
and structure type for your storage. machinery storage and clearance. facility, if needed.

STRUCTURES equipment storage 28

 Equipment Storage Resources
Develop an Efficient Materials Planning Farm Funding
Storage System Storage Buildings
A website resource by University of A website resource by MDAR Matching MDAR Farm Viability
Massachusetts Amherst Extension. Virginia Cooperative Enterprise Grants for Enhancement
ag.umass.edu/greenhouse-floriculture/fact-sheets/ Extension that Agriculture (MEGA) Program (FVEP)
develop-efficient-materials-storage-system discusses the costs and mass.gov/info-details/ mass.gov/info-details/
advantages of having matching-enterprise-grants- farm-viability-enhancement-
farm storage buildings for-agriculture-mega program-fvep
for hay or machinery.
pubs.ext.vt.edu/content/ USDA Farm Service Farm Credit East
dam/pubs_ext_vt_ Agency Loan Grants and Loans
edu/442/442-760/BSE- Assistance Tool farmcrediteast.com/
248P.pdf
lat.fpac.usda.gov financing/beginning-
farmer-programs

Carrot Project Loans

thecarrotproject.org/farmers-
food-producers/#loan

Contacts
UMass Center for Agriculture, USDA
Food, and the Environment Service
E-mail: [email protected] Centers
Phone: 413-545-4800 offices.sc.egov.
usda.gov/locator/
ag.umass.edu/about/contact-information
app

STRUCTURES equipment storage resources 29

Fencing
Various fencing options are available, from movable electric fencing to
permanent fencing of different sizes and materials. Consider the purpose
for which you might need fencing as well as your budget and timeline to
choose which option best fits your needs.

Purpose Budget Timeline

Determine your fencing needs–will it be used for Consider the financial resources Determine how
livestock, as a wildlife barrier, or for some other need? you have available for your soon you need your
If being used for livestock, consider whether you want fencing project. This may fencing and how
a physical barrier or psychological barrier (i.e., electric determine the materials you long the construction
fencing). Physical barriers can be more expensive and purchase. If needed, seek funding or setup will take.
also require more time for construction or setup. using the resources listed below.

STRUCTURES fencing 30
 Fencing Resources
Making Fences Friendlier for Ranchers and Wildlife Funding
A PDF guide by USDA.
farmers.gov/blog/making-fences-friendlier-ranchers-and-wildlife
MDAR Matching MDAR Farm Viability
Enterprise Grants for Enhancement
Agriculture (MEGA) Program (FVEP)
mass.gov/info-details/ mass.gov/info-details/
Basics for matching-enterprise-grants- farm-viability-enhancement-
Livestock for-agriculture-mega program-fvep
Fencing
A website resource USDA Environmental Farm Credit East
by University of Quality Incentives Grants and Loans
Massachusetts Program (EQIP) farmcrediteast.com/
Amherst Extension. nrcs.usda.gov/programs- financing/beginning-
initiatives/eqip-environmental- farmer-programs
ag.umass.edu/
quality-incentives
crops-dairy-livestock-
equine/fact-sheets/
basics-for-livestock- USDA Farm Service Carrot Project Loans
fencing
Agency Loan thecarrotproject.org/farmers-
Assistance Tool food-producers/#loan
lat.fpac.usda.gov
Fence: Small Scale Excluding and Repelling
Solutions for Your Farm Problem Wildlife from
A PDF guide by USDA Natural the Garden
Resources Conservation Service. A website resource by University
nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/ of Massachusetts Amherst Contacts
files/2023-01/Fence-%20Small%20 Extension.
Scale%20Solutions%20for%20 UMass Center USDA Service
ag.umass.edu/crops-dairy-livestock-
your%20Farm.pdf equine/fact-sheets/basics-for- for Agriculture, Centers
livestock-fencing
Food, and the offices.sc.egov.usda.
Environment gov/locator/app

ag.umass.edu/about/
contact-information

STRUCTURES fencing resources 31

Greenhouse/Hoop House
These structures can contribute to a farm’s productive capacity and are
relatively inexpensive when the cost per square foot is compared to other
structures. They come in a wide range of sizes, styles, and materials. Hopefully
the following key considerations and resources will help your find the style
that fits best with your operation.

Structure Type Purpose Heating Method

Determine whether a greenhouse or hoop house is Consider what production goals you are hoping If relevant, what will be
best for your needs. to meet with this structure. Will you use it to your heating method (e.g.,
grow seedlings or starts? To extend the growing natural gas, propane,
A greenhouse typically has hard side walls made
season? To improve crop quality? wood/pellet stove)?
from glass or polycarbonate and metal, with plants
(often, but not always) growing above the ground
on tables, in pots or trays. It is often heated and
more insulated than a hoop house.
Budget
A hoop house–or high tunnel–consists of
polyethylene, plastic, or fabric covering metal hoop Determine how much money you can allocate to this project; this may determine
structures, with plants grown in raised beds or whether you construct a greenhouse or hoop house, as greenhouses are typically
directly in the ground. more expensive. You can seek financial assistance using the resources that follow.

STRUCTURES greenhouse/hoop house 32

 Greenhouse/Hoop House Resources
Season Extension Structures High Tunnel Initiative Funding
A website resource by University of A website resource by USDA
Massachusetts Amherst Center for Natural Resources Conservation MDAR Matching MDAR Farm Viability
Agriculture, Food, and Environment Service to learn more about this Enterprise Grants for Enhancement
to learn about greenhouses, high- conservation practice funded Agriculture (MEGA) Program (FVEP)
tunnels, and low-tunnels as season through USDA’s EQIP. mass.gov/info-details/ mass.gov/info-details/
extension structures. nrcs.usda.gov/programs- matching-enterprise-grants- farm-viability-enhancement-
initiatives/eqip-high-tunnel- for-agriculture-mega program-fvep
ag.umass.edu/vegetable/resources/
winter-production-storage/production initiative
USDA Environmental Farm Credit East
Quality Incentives Grants and Loans
Program (EQIP) farmcrediteast.com/
Rodale Institute– nrcs.usda.gov/programs- financing/beginning-
Putting Together initiatives/eqip-environmental- farmer-programs
a Greenhouse quality-incentives

A website resouce by
Rodale Institute.
USDA Farm Service Carrot Project Loans
Agency Loan thecarrotproject.org/farmers-
rodaleinstitute.org/
blog/putting-together- Assistance Tool food-producers/#loan
greenhouses lat.fpac.usda.gov

Growing All Seasons: High Are You Ready to Build a

Tunnels Hoop House?
A website resource by USDA Natural A website resouce by Bootstrap
Contacts
Resources Conservation Service. Farmer.
UMass Center MA Department USDA
nrcs.usda.gov/getting-assistance/other-topics/ bootstrapfarmer.com/blogs/building-
organic/nrcs-assistance-for-organic-farmers a-greenhouse/are-you-ready-to-buy-
for Agriculture, of Agricultural Service
a-hoop-house Food, and the Resources Centers
Environment mass.gov/info-details/ offices.
ag.umass.edu/about/ mdar-staff-directory sc.egov.usda.
contact-information gov/locator/
app

STRUCTURES greenhouse/hoop house resources 33

Housing
If purchasing land with the intention to build a house or farm worker housing
there, check with the local zoning/building department to ensure your building
plans are allowed. Sometimes finding adequate land with housing can be
challenging, and some farmers have chosen instead to purchase or rent a home
and lease (or purchase) nearby acreage for production.

Building or renovating your home Labor housing Insurance

If building a new home on your new or existing property: If providing housing for your workers, If your home and
• Check with your local planning office to ensure you will not make sure you comply with local zoning farm are on the same
need a change in zoning to build a home on your property. requirements and state standards or property, consider
• Ensure you have a plan for supplying water to your home. requirements for farm labor housing. If you how to protect your
If groundwater is reliable, a well may be your best option. do not have the capacity to provide labor personal assets in
• Contact your local planning office to start the building housing, consider how you might connect addition to your
permit process. You may be required to gather and provide your employees with housing opportunities. business.
extensive details and information.

STRUCTURES housing 34
 Housing Resources
Can You Build a House on Potential Resources for Seasonal Funding
Agricultural Land? Farmworker Housing
A website resource by Millman A PDF resouce by USDA. USDA Buy, Build, or Carrot Project Loans
National Land Services. farmers.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ Repair a Home thecarrotproject.
millmanland.com/company-news/ Potential-Resources-Seasonal-Agriculture- rd.usda.gov/topics/buy-build- org/farmers-food-
build-a-house-on-agricultural-land Laborers-June%202020.pdf or-repair-home producers/#loan

USDA On-Farm USDA Off-Farm

How to Build Labor Housing Loans Labor Housing
a Modern rd.usda.gov/programs- Direct Loans &
Farmhouse services/multifamily- Grants
housing-programs/farm-
A website resource rd.usda.gov/programs-
labor-housing-loans
services/multifamily-
by Indie Farmer.
housing-programs/farm-
indiefarmer. Farm Credit East labor-housing-direct-loans-
com/2020/09/22/how- grants
Rural Home Loans
to-build-a-modern-
farmhouse farmcrediteast.com/en/
FINANCING/Rural-Home-
Loans

Build a Home on
Your Farm, Part
5 - The Step-By-
Step Process for Contacts
Construction Local town/city planning office
A website resouce by
Farm Labor Camps–Community Sanitation Maverick Acres. MA Department of Public Health info
This guide by Massachusetts Department of Public Health maverickacres.com/ about Farm Labor Camps
Resources includes documents with information regarding post/build-a-home-on- mass.gov/lists/farm-labor-camps-community-sanitation
your-farm-part-5-the-
regulations and state inspection for farm labor camps.
step-by-step-process-
mass.gov/lists/farm-labor-camps-community-sanitation for-construction USDA Service Centers
offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app

STRUCTURES housing resources 35

Retail Space/Farm Stand
In the right context, a retail space or farm stand can be a great way for farmers to
sell their products directly to consumers. These key considerations and resources
might help you decide if such a space is right for your farm operation.

Type Location Hours of

operation
Consider whether a self-pay storefront or a farm stand If you cannot accommodate an on-site farm stand, is
is right for you. Do you feel that an honor system there another location for your retail space? The location of
would work in your community or would you prefer to your farm stand
allocate labor costs to staffing the farm stand? as well as its type
(self-pay versus
Pricing Promotion staffed) may
influence your
Do adequate research Make sure you
Zoning Payment and planning to spread the word
chosen hours
of operation, as
Consult with your local Decide how you determine appropriate to your customers
self-pay may offer
planning office to obtain plan to accept prices for your products and community
more flexibility
the required permits for payment–cash, that reflect the quality about your new
with hours.
building or renovating credit card, Venmo, and costs of production. retail space or
your facility, if needed. or a combination. farm stand.

STRUCTURES retail space/farm stand 36

 Retail Space/Farm Stand Resources

Funding Contacts
Is Starting a Farm Stand Right for You?
A website resource by Oregon State University MDAR Marketing and Promotion UMass Center for
Extension Service. Grants Agriculture, Food, and
catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/em9274/html mass.gov/guides/agricultural-grants-and- the Environment
financial-assistance-programs#-marketing-and-
E-mail: [email protected]
promotion-grants-
Phone: 413-545-4800
So You Want to Run a Farm Stand MDAR Farm Viability Enhancement ag.umass.edu/about/contact-
information
A website resouce by Rodale Institute to understand the Program (FVEP)
specifics of marketing and hospitality at your farm stand. mass.gov/info-details/farm-viability-
Massachusetts
enhancement-program-fvep
rodaleinstitute.org/blog/how-to-run-a-farm-stand Department of
MDAR Matching Enterprise Grants Agricultural Resources
for Agriculture (MEGA) mass.gov/info-details/mdar-
How to Develop a Farm Stand staff-directory
mass.gov/info-details/matching-enterprise-
A website resource by University of Vermont Extension. grants-for-agriculture-mega
uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Agriculture/Agritourism/2020HowTo- USDA Service
DevelopFarmStand.pdf USDA Local Food Promotion Program Centers
ams.usda.gov/services/grants/lfpp offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/
locator/app

STRUCTURES retail space/farm stand resources 37

Pack Sheds and Coolers
For certain operations (e.g. vegetable farms), a well-designed wash and pack
station can greatly increase efficiency and facilitate food safety. Adding cooler
space can significantly increase the shelf life and marketability of many crops.
Consider the following as you explore putting a pack shed or cooler at your farm.

Type Materials
Consider your food storage needs. What type of produce Do you have existing materials you can repurpose for your
do you need to store and for how long? pack shed or cooler or will you need to purchase new ones?

Construction needs Layout and design

Do you have an existing walk-in cooler or pack shed that Ensure you design your storage space in a way that allows
you need to upgrade or are you starting from scratch? for easy movement of produce in an organized way.

STRUCTURES pack sheds and coolers 38

Pack Sheds and Cold Storage Resources
Mighty Clean and Comfortable – A New Building a Low Funding
Wash and Pack Shed at Mighty Food Cost Cooler and
Farm Pack Shed MDAR Matching MDAR Farm Viability
A website resource by University of Vermont Extension A PDF guide by Farley Enterprise Grants for Enhancement
to learn about how Mighty Food Farm developed their Center for Peace, Justice & Agriculture (MEGA) Program (FVEP)
infrastructure for a wash and pack shed with videos Sustainability. mass.gov/info-details/ mass.gov/info-details/
and pictures to accompany. matching-enterprise-grants- farm-viability-enhancement-
nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/
for-agriculture-mega program-fvep
blog.uvm.edu/cwcallah/2018/11/10/mighty-clean-and- resources/building-low-cost-
comfortable-a-new-wash-and-pack-shed-at-mighty-food-farm cooler-and-pack-shed
USDA Environmental Farm Credit East
Quality Incentives Grants and Loans
Program (EQIP) farmcrediteast.com/
Best Practices for Walk-In Coolers for Post-Harvest and financing/beginning-
nrcs.usda.gov/programs-
On-Farm Cold Winter Storage Storage Resources initiatives/eqip-environmental- farmer-programs
Storage A website resouce by A website resource quality-incentives
A PDF guide by NC Sustainable Agriculture by University of
Growing Together. Research and Education. Massachusetts Amherst USDA Farm Service Carrot Project Loans
cefs.ncsu.edu/all- sare.org/resources/walk-in- Extension. Agency Loan thecarrotproject.org/farmers-
resources coolers-for-winter-storage ag.umass.edu/vegetable/ Assistance Tool food-producers/#loan
resources/winter- lat.fpac.usda.gov
production-storage/storage

Clean Heating and Cooling Resources

A online resources by University of Massachusetts
How to Build a
Amherst Extension.
Walk-In Cooler for Contacts
ag.umass.edu/clean-energy/chc
Your Small Farm
A PDF guide by CoolBot. UMass Center MA Department USDA
for Agriculture, of Agricultural Service
CoolBots: Inexpensive Cold Storage agriculture.sc.gov/wp-
content/uploads/2017/08/ Food, and the Resources Centers
A website resource by University of Vermont Extension. How-to-Build-a-Walk-In- Environment mass.gov/info-details/
offices.
Cooler-for-Your-Small- sc.egov.usda.
blog.uvm.edu/cwcallah/2013/03/20/coolbotstm-inexpensive- ag.umass.edu/about/ mdar-staff-directory
Farm-3.17.pdf gov/locator/
cold-storage contact-information app

STRUCTURES pack sheds and cold storage resources 39

Livestock Handling Facilities
Like fencing options, handling facilities can range in price and
complexity and the following considerations and resources might help
you decide which style is appropriate for your livestock operation.

Location Structure and design Budget Permitting

Select a site for your The type and quantity of livestock Establish your budget for Consult with
structure that allows may determine the type of facility the project and work with an your building
for proper drainage you construct. Open sided, single experienced contractor or inspector or local
and is far from streams slope roof shed; open sided, clear carpenter to get a detailed planning office
or other water bodies. span pole shed; and hoop barns, estimate to ensure the to obtain the
Talk with a local NRCS for example, are some common project can happen within required permits
or extension agent for designs. Also consider your feeding your budget. Seek financial for building or
recommendations on equipment setup, as there are assistance through grants or renovating your
location. many to choose from. loans as needed. facility.

STRUCTURES livestock handling facilities 40

Livestock Handling Facility Resources
Building an On-Farm Poultry Beef Cattle Housing & Funding
Processing Unit Equipment
A online resources by New Entry A website resource by University of MDAR Matching MDAR Farm Viability
Sustainable Farming Project. Massachusetts Amherst Extension. Enterprise Grants for Enhancement
nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/resources/ ag.umass.edu/crops-dairy-livestock- Agriculture (MEGA) Program (FVEP)
building-farm-poultry-processing-facility-0 equine/fact-sheets/beef-cattle-housing- mass.gov/info-details/ mass.gov/info-details/
equipment matching-enterprise-grants- farm-viability-enhancement-
for-agriculture-mega program-fvep

Beef Cattle Handling Facilities USDA Environmental Farm Credit East

Mobile Poultry Processing
A PDF guide by Mississippi State Quality Incentives Grants and Loans
University Extension.
Unit Farm & Food Safety
Program (EQIP) farmcrediteast.com/
Management Guide
extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/ nrcs.usda.gov/programs- financing/beginning-
publications/publications/p2787_0.pdf A website resouce by New Entry initiatives/eqip-environmental- farmer-programs
Sustainable Farming Project. quality-incentives
nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/resources/
mobile-poultry-processing-unit-farm- USDA Farm Service Carrot Project Loans
Processing Your Livestock food-safety-management-guide
Agency Loan thecarrotproject.org/farmers-
A website resource by New Entry Assistance Tool food-producers/#loan
Sustainable Farming Project. lat.fpac.usda.gov
nesfp.nutrition.tufts.edu/resources/fact-
sheet-28-processing-your-livestock Put Your Best Foot
Forward with Low-
Stress Livestock
Handling Contacts
Housing and Space
Guidelines for Livestock A PDF guide by University of
New Hampshire Extension. UMass Center MA Department USDA
A website resource by University
extension.unh.edu/blog/2017/06/ for Agriculture, of Agricultural Service
of New Hampshire Extension.
put-your-best-foot-forward-low- Food, and the Resources Centers
extension.unh.edu/resource/housing- stress-livestock-handling offices.
and-space-guidelines-livestock
Environment mass.gov/info-details/
sc.egov.usda.
ag.umass.edu/about/ mdar-staff-directory
gov/locator/
contact-information app

STRUCTURES livestock handling facility resources Return to table of contents 41

Equipment
Having the right equipment can greatly improve your farm’s
productivity and efficiency. The nature, scale, and budget of
your farm operation will determine what equipment is right
for your farm.
A wide variety of farm equipment exists, and new products
are continually being developed. A comprehensive list of
equipment is beyond the scope of this resource, but below is
a list of key considerations, questions, and resources related
to tractors, machinery, implements, and vehicles.

• What are my long-term goals? Production Factors

• Why do I need or want equipment? Acres: Equipment needs
• What enterprises will I pursue? vary across scales.
Determine how many
• What activities are time sensitive? acres you’ll be utilizing
• How much money do I have to invest? the equipment on.

• What are the alternatives? Specialization: Identify

the equipment needs
• How will it be maintained? that are specific to your
• Who will be using the equipment? operation.
• Do I know how to use the equipment?

KEY CONSIDERATIONS

Selection Types of equipment Fuel Maintenance Safety

42
 Making the When considering an equipment package, make sure the tractor you
buy or lease has enough horsepower to operate the implements you

Selection plan to use. If growing in beds, consider the tractor wheel spacing
and implement width that works best in your system.

Purchasing and Leasing Guide to Purchasing Equipment Choosing Essential Equipment

Farm Equipment A PDF guide by Purdue University Department for Your Small Farm Business
A website resource by Purdue University Center of Agriculture and Biological Engineering. A website article by Bplans.
for Commercial Agriculture. agrability.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Small- articles.bplans.com/choosing-essential-
ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/resource/2014/03/ Farm-Guide-to-Purchasing-Equipment.pdf equipment-small-farm-business
purchasing-and-leasing-farm-equipment/

Farm Machinery Pre-purchase Considerations: Need and Economics Farm Machinery Selection
A website resource by University of Wisconsin Extension: Farm Management. A website resource on farm machinery considerations by
farms.extension.wisc.edu/articles/tractor-pre-purchase-considerations-needs-and-economics Iowa State Extension.
extension.iastate.edu/agdm/crops/html/a3-28.htmlthe

EQUIPMENT making the selection resources 43

Tractors Implements &
Specialized Equipment
Selecting a Tractor for a Small Walk-Behind
Farm Tractors and
A website resource by Cornell College Climate Smart Vegetable Equipment and
Implements
of Agriculture and Life Sciences Small Agriculture Program Irrigation
Farms Program. A couple of good A Massachusetts grant A website article by University of
smallfarms.cornell.edu/2014/10/selecting-a- internet channels to program that provides Maryland Extension.
tractor-for-the-small-farm buy tractor implements funding for agricultural extension.umd.edu/resource/farm-
in packages after equipment that enhances equipment-resources-beginning-farmers
you have done the climate resilience by
necessary research.
Tractor Shopping Articles Massachusetts Department
of Agricultural Resources.
Two web resources by University of RESOURCES Eligible applicants must Vegetable Farm Weed-
Wisconsin Extension. BCS America be the principal operator Control Machines
www.bcsamerica.com of the farm and the farm A YouTube playist by University of
RESOURCES must be in active operation Vermont Center for Sustainable
Online Sourcing Earth Tools for at least 3 years before Agriculture that contains 13 short clips
farms.extension.wisc.edu/articles/tractor-buyer- earthtools.com submitting an application. about different weed-control machines
be-wary-sourcing-used-equipment-online
mass.gov/how-to/how-to- and how they differ from one another.
apply-to-the-climate-smart-
Old-fashioned Sourcing youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7TYEW-
agriculture-program
Locating a Tractor aB6ckVgQc96wK9wvbZIHNI406n
farms.extension.wisc.edu/articles/tractor-buyer-
be-wary-sourcing-used-equipment-the-old- A website article by Cornell
fashioned-way College of Agriculture and
Life Sciences Small Farms
Program that is a simple
Machinery Tractor thought process to make FROM A FARMER: JORGE
Guide: Types Shopping beginning farmers aware
Jorge applied for an American Farmland Trust (AFT)
of Tractors and Guide of the pitfalls of buying a
used tractor and what to
New England Microgrant that he found out about
Categories A website guide
consider if doing so, such through a referral and, after completing a round of
An website resource by Hobby Farms.
as service center locations reviews, was approved 3 months later. He recalls the
by AgDaily. hobbyfarms.com/
tractor-shopping-
and access to parts. application process was very easy and the response
agdaily.com/
technology/machinery- guide smallfarms.cornell. time was pretty average for a grant application. Jorge
edu/2015/01/selecting-a-
guide-types-of-tractors-
used-tractor-for-your-farm- received $5,000 and used it to purchase a BCS tractor
and-categories
part-ii-locating-a-tractor which he finds increases the efficiency on his farm.

EQUIPMENT types of equipment resources 44

Machinery
Accelerated Depreciation and Machinery Purchases
A website article by Purdue University Center for Commercial
Agriculture that discusses the factors that should be considered
when purchasing farm machinery, such as tax management and
the benefits of leasing versus purchasing.
ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/resource/2016/12/accelerated-
depreciation-and-machinery-purchases

Vehicles
Buyer’s Guide to Small Farm Trailer Buying Guide
Utility Vehicles A website resource by NFU.
A website resource by Hobby Farms. nfuonline.com/updates-and-
hobbyfarms.com/buyers-guide-to-small- information/trailer-buying-guide
farm-utility-vehicles

Storage Equipment
Farm Storage Facility (Micro) Loans
A PDF fact sheet by USDA Farm Service Agency.
fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/
FactSheets/2022/farm_storage_facility_loan_programs_
fact_sheet_july_2022.pdf

EQUIPMENT types of equipment resources 45

Fuel
FROM A FARMER: DAVID
Estimating Fuel Practical Guide: Optimizing When David was looking to purchase
Requirements for Field Tractor Fuel Use a no-till planter and seed drill for his
Operations A website resource by Farming farm after his used planter started to
A website resource by Purdue University for a Better Climate.
get a little worn, he started considering
Cooperative Extension Service. farmingforabetterclimate.org/resource/
optimising-tractor-fuel-use
buying brand new equipment to
extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/AE/AE-110.
html mitigate the issues he had with used
equipment. However, equipment is
expensive and hard to find used in
decent condition for no-till operations.
Maintenance He weighed the decision to get new no-
till equipment, which will save him some
money every year compared to tilling
Equipment Maintenance Farm equipment his fields. He found the MDAR Climate
A short list of guidelines by University of maintenance Smart Agriculture Program - ACRE
Massachusetts Amherst Extension that are best checklist grant that funds equipment for no-till
practices for equipment maintenance. Use this A website resource by systems. David had a lot of experience
document to incorporate the tips into standard Rural Mutual Insurance. writing grants and paid attention to
operating procedures as part of staff training.
ruralmutual.com/resource/ the outcomes and scoring criteria of
ag.umass.edu/crops-dairy-livestock-equine/fact- farm-safety/farm-machinery/
sheets/equipment-maintenance farm-equipment-maintenance- the funder so he expected to rank highly
checklist to be awarded the funding. After some
rough calculations, David found that
Plan for Maintenance to Avoid the financial outlay of buying used
Costly Repairs with Tractor Tractor Maintenance to equipment compared to maintaining a
Ownership Conserve Energy new system and buying new equipment
A website resource by University of Wisconsin A factsheet by Iowa State
with grant funding is about the same
Madison Extension. University Extension. and worth the time it takes to apply for a
farms.extension.wisc.edu/articles/plan-for- store.extension.iastate.edu/ grant in the long-run.
maintenance-to-avoid-costly-repairs-with-tractor- product/13448
ownership/

EQUIPMENT fuel, maintenance, & safety resources 46

Safety
Rutgers Cooperative Extension:
Farm Machinery and Equipment Safety
Part I: Recognizing and Part II: Preventing Machinery
Understanding the Hazards Accidents During Operation
When developing training for Once employees are comfortable with
employees and materials, this list the general safety overview before even NYCAMH Farm Safety Rollover Protective
of precautions will help you adopt getting on a machine in Part I, this will Videos Structures (ROPS)
safety procedures and communicate help people familiarize themselves with
E-mail: [email protected] A grant program to provide
these to anybody who will be the operation and maintenance of heavy
Phone: 800-343-7527 cost-share to retrofit
operating the machinery. farm machinery with safety in mind.
nycamh.org/resources/videos.php tractors with ROPS.
njaes.rutgers.edu/fs619 njaes.rutgers.edu/fs620
ropsr4u.org

Consider Safety Before

you Purchase a Used FROM A FARMER: PHALLA
Tractor or Farm Machine When Phalla saw a neighboring farm install new
A website resource by University grant-funded high tunnels, she asked how she could
of Wisconsin Extension. get one installed on her farm. She was advised to
farms.extension.wisc.edu/articles/ call the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) and NRCS
consider-safety-before-you-
purchase-a-tractor offices and inquire about grants she might be eligible
for. She applied for the USDA NRCS EQIP cost-share
program and was awarded a contract to install two
high tunnels on her leased property. Phalla’s advice to
Tractor Safety Manual
other farmers is “definitely do it…It is good to have.”
A PDF guide by Occupational
Her advice is to make sure that, if leasing, that the
Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA). landlord allows structures on the property and the
osha.gov/sites/default/files/
lease term is long enough to make it worth it.
publications/OSHA3835.pdf

EQUIPMENT safety resources 47

Grants Loans
Matching Enterprise Farm Viability Farm Loan Carrot Project Loans
Grants for Agriculture Enhancement Programs
thecarrotproject.org/farmers-food-producers/#loan
(MEGA) Program (FVEP) USDA Farm
mass.gov/info-details/ mass.gov/info-details/ Service Agency.
matching-enterprise-grants-for- farm-viability-enhancement- fsa.usda.gov/
agriculture-mega program-fvep programs-and- Equipment Financing
services/farm-loan-
programs/index farmcrediteast.com/en/FINANCING/Equipment-Financing

Rollover Protective Structure MDAR Climate

(ROPS) Retrofit Program Smart Agriculture
Program Farm Loan Calculator
mass.gov/guides/agricultural-grants-and-
mass.gov/how-to/how- This interactive calculator can determine what financing will
financial-assistance-programs#-farm-
financial-assistance-programs- to-apply-to-the-climate- look like based on your unique operation’s cash flow. This tool
smart-agriculture-program offers reports and financial forecasting, breaking down each
payment with interest and determining how many payments
it will require to pay off the loan. Farm Credit East.
farmcrediteast.com/en/resources/Calculators

FROM A FARMER: JORGE

Jorge applied for a USDA (Farm Service Agency)
FSA loan in addition to a loan from Farm Credit
East. He maintains that the staff at USDA was
very polite, and they help you out throughout
the entire process, but it can take a long time. To
compare, Farm Credit East had already disbursed
his loan when he was only halfway through the
application process with FSA. However, when he
finally received the loan, he was able to use it to
make soil amendments by purchasing limestone.

EQUIPMENT funding resources 48

Leasing Contacts

Purchasing and Leasing vs Buying Ag Farm Credit East – UMass Center for
Leasing Farm Machinery: Factors to Office Locator Agriculture, Food,
Equipment Assess Equipment loans & and the Environment
Purdue University Extension ●University of Nebraska- financing. E-mail: [email protected]
Commercial Agriculture Lincoln Institution of farmcrediteast.com/ Phone: 413-545-4800
Program. Agriculture and Natural office-locator ag.umass.edu/about/contact-
ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/ Resources. information
home/resource/2014/03/ cropwatch.unl.edu/leasing-vs-
purchasing-and-leasing-farm- buying-ag-machinery-factors-
equipment assess
MA Department
of Agricultural USDA Service
Resources Centers
offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/

Cost Estimates
mass.gov/info-details/
mdar-staff-directory locator/app

Some conservation districts

Farm Equipment Resources for Beginning Farmers Talk to your local (e.g. Hampden-Hampshire and
University of Maryland Extension. equipment dealer. Cheshire County) offer the use
extension.umd.edu/resource/farm-equipment-resources-beginning-farmers of equipment for rental.

EQUIPMENT funding resources Return to table of contents 49

Conclusion Acknowledgements
Starting a farm from scratch and assessing, selecting, installing, or building Many thanks to all who worked so hard to create this resource,
especially: Jacqueline Singer, Maarit Ostrow, Madeleine Stein,
all the necessary infrastructure for a new enterprise is not a straightforward
Jennifer Pethan, Medina Korajkić, Jennifer Hashley, and Ben
task. There are many decisions to consider and resources to evaluate. We hope Zoba. Graphic Design provided by Margaret Lemus.
this guide has been helpful in your efforts to establish a farm or determine the
Special thanks to the many inspiring and dedicated beginning
infrastructure you may need at a new property. Making a business of growing
farmers who provided input to identify the need for this
food for others is meaningful work, though it isn’t always easy. The process resource guide and decision tool. We are grateful for the
of establishing a farm at a new site can be quite involved, but we hope the advice, testimonials, and feedback from producers including:
considerations, resources, and contacts highlighted in this document help Mohammed Hannan, Terry O’Brien, Graham Ball, Daniela Aldrich,
you succeed toward that goal. If you are a new farmer or a prospective farmer Corey Thomas, Jorge Marzuca Rosas, Margaret Gichuki, Phalla
in Massachusetts, feel free to reach out to us at the New Entry Sustainable Nol, and David Dumaresq. Jim Henderson deserves special
appreciation for his support of dozens of beginning farmers
Farming Project to assist you as you develop your enterprise goals and assess
over the years in navigating the decision-making process and
your infrastructure needs. You can reach us at: [email protected] supporting them to install infrastructure on their farms.
We also encourage you to access USDA resources available to farmers We appreciate our collaborators and advisors who generously
generally and beginning farmers specifically by contacting your local USDA offered feedback on this document, including Jessica Camp,
Farm Service Agency (FSA) beginning farmer resource liaison at your local Olivia Palmer, and Rebecca Davidson from MDAR; Jeff Cole of
USDA Service Center: The Carrot Project; Rachel Brice of Land for Good; and Jack
Loomis from USDA NRCS.
• farmers.gov/working-with-us/USDA-service-centers#find-service
Photos were taken by New Entry Sustainable Farming Project
• farmers.gov/your-business/beginning-farmers/coordinators Staff or contributed by Pete Lowy of Codman Community Farm
unless otherwise noted.

If you have a helpful resource to share that influenced the development and growth of your farm,
please feel free to share it with us at: [email protected].

This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2021‐70027‐34693.

50