Farm Family Survival
AUGUST 2000
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Farm Family Survival AUGUST 2000 |
Planning combines family, profit and the environment. Farm families are facing tough questions-such as how to survive in an increasingly risky economic environment. That may break down into questions such as: Should I expand my livestock operation? Would direct marketing or a value-added enterprise work with my farm? How can we bring a son or daughter into the business? How can I spend more time with my family? How can we increase community respect for our farm and agriculture? After struggling with these questions and others, several Minnesota farm families heard about Whole Farm Planning. They used the concepts to alter their farm management, bringing more financial stability, improved stewardship, and a better quality of life for their families. They've discovered what most business managers already know-it's hard to succeed without goals and a plan of how to get there. Whole Farm Planning, also known as Comprehensive Farm Planning, can help you: Develop a vision for your farm 10, 20 or 50 years into the future. Improve the profitability and efficiency of your farm operations. Bring respect from the community for your work in protecting the environment. Make the farm a safe and healthy place for you and your family. A publication funded by the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture (MISA) is available that describes Whole Farm Planning and some tools available to help with your planning needs. Ask your county Extension office about publication 6985, "Whole Farm Planning." Or, call the Distribution Center, University of Minnesota Extension Service at (800) 876-8636. Single copies are $2.50 plus shipping and taxes. |