Knowledgebase

Micro farm/small farm — how do I start? #813028

Asked October 03, 2022, 2:20 PM EDT

Hi there. I’m a very serious home gardener on 3 acres. Over the years I’ve become skilled at seed starting and saving, no-till garden methods, drip irrigation installation, succession planting, etc. Over the last several summers I’ve sold thousands of dollars worth of bouquets at a roadside stand. This past summer I became much more serious in my pursuits. I am thinking that it may behoove me to apply for a small farm/micro farm status and develop an actual business. I have no idea where to begin, or even if developing small farm status will help me. I’m also not sure who can help me. Can anyone point me in the right direction?

Kalamazoo County Michigan

Expert Response

Good Morning! Our apologies for the delay in responding.

I'm going to provide two references for you -- first there is the MSU Product Center who are a group of talented experts in helping clients develop their business plans.  You can read more about their services at the URL below as well as sign up for a consultation:

Counseling Request - Product Center (msu.edu)

There other reference I'm providing is Christopher Imler, who works out of our Kalamazoo County office.  His area of expertise is horticulture as well as helping veterans.

Christopher Imler (msu.edu)

Best wishes in your endeavor!
Terri
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