California’s farms collectively grossed over $50 billion since 2020, according to the latest data from the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Farming is one of the most lucrative businesses you can start in California, even amid the circumstances of the times. However, Antelope Valley in particular has had a shaky history when it comes to its agricultural sector. Many farms and farmers markets have struggled in the past. Still, the best way to help our farming sector stabilize is to try your hand at farming yourself. With successful marketing and cooperation within the farming community, you can help bolster Antelope Valley’s agricultural sector for decades to come.
Find Out What You Want To Grow
First, determine which fruits and crops are in demand in your area. Then, research which of these agree with the land you have available. Finally, choose which of them you want to tend on your farm. The same goes with livestock. Maximum profit is often best achieved through focusing on only one type of crop or animal, depending on which is in highest demand. Mixed farming is not usually advisable, unless you have a large pool of resources and manpower. Then, it becomes a great option to keep you flexible in the event of a drought or periods of low demand. Otherwise, you can employ crop circulation to keep turning a profit even if your main crop has fallen out of favor with the consumers.
Put Together A Business Plan
Just like any business, running a successful farm entails comprehensive planning and finance management. A good plan tells you what considerations to account for, what eventualities to prepare for, and ultimately, what decisions to make. This plan should include your marketing strategy, as well as how you set aside time and money to process legal requirements. Your business plan will tell you whether it’s a good decision at a particular point in time to buy skid steer tracks to replace your loader’s old pair, or double down on your irrigation investments. Aside from this, a well put together plan also strengthens your case for a loan application if you ever find that necessary.
Secure Suitable Farmland
Once you’ve found out what you want to grow, and have set aside a budget for farmland, it’s time to browse properties that suit you. Aside from looking for a plot you can afford and accommodate all of the crops you want to farm, you also want to consider how easily you can access your target markets. Access to water is also vital. You should consider how well you can get along and possibly cooperate with your prospective neighbors as well. If you think that the parcel of land you have your eye on is lacking in any of these factors, consider leasing instead of buying. This lets you try things out before fully committing to farming on that property.
These three are essentially all you need to get a farm up and running in Antelope Valley. As long as you keep these in mind, and follow California’s policies on farming property, you should be able to provide the Valley with plenty of bountiful harvests.
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