1. Conservation easements or team up for a DIY conservation easement

Small nearby farms could band together as a non-profit that owns the several farms. They can still pay themselves a salary but have less tax burden. Small agricultural producers must meet a certain acreage threshold to stay in a lower tax bracket, but tax is still a substantial burden, constantly threatening the survival of some farms. Farms and ranches larger than 40 acres may find it feasible to complete the legal work needed for a conservation easement, with the help of a land trust. Some non-profit agencies are set up to help complete conservation easements for those that meet a size requirement, which can be smaller if there are unique considerations such as being adjacent to a natural park or offering migratory passage. This legislation eases the tax burden and keeps the land from ever being sold for other types of development than what is written into the contract. The Audubon Society or Nature Conservancy may purchase smaller land parcels that meet wilderness or habitat criteria. 

2. Conserving resources

Many farmers and ranchers may bristle at the political and subculture differences that define the ecovillage movement. Yet some small farms have found it helpful to adopt permaculture practices for sustainability, such as water catchment. Many of these used to be practiced on traditional farms. The ecovillage page has many resources that may also fit the needs of small farms and ranches.

3. Organic farming

As weather patterns change and aquifers face depletion, new challenges have threatened farmers, including diseases and pests that have adapted to and are no longer controlled by agrochemicals. The Rhodale Institute’s longitudinal studies have shown that organic farming is economically viable, even superior to chemical-based agribusiness in years of water shortage. Organic (even if not certified) local community supported agriculture (CSA) has been one way small farms have found to make a local profit.

4. Specialty products

In many states and provinces it is illegal to sell raw milk, though many customers prefer it. Raw milk can be obtained by participating in a cow share, which is part ownership of a cow. Sometimes these arrangements can fall under a private membership association. Another example of a successful specialty product increasing in demand is local raw honey, and beekeeping doesn’t take extra space. Duck eggs are tolerated by some people with egg allergies; these are an especially great addition if you need to control snails and slugs.

5. Side businesses

Very few small farms can stay afloat on their earnings alone. For generations, almost all small farms across the U.S. and Canada have had at least one family member employed off the farm in order to afford to keep farming. Some operate side businesses on the farm. These include the following: farm tours with petting, short-term bed-and-breakfast lodging, farm-to-table restaurant or deli, or hosting weddings or other events during the less busy seasons (with event planners managing the logistics and setup).

6. Farm shares, co-operative ownership, and peer-to-peer loans

Understandably, most farmers do not want to co-own their land or farm operations. Yet co-ownership could become an important option when the alternative is potentially losing the farm to the bank or failing to qualify for a loan. People interested in self-sufficiency and food security might buy in as an investment, counting on the labor contributions of those who live and work on site. Older farmers could create a rent-to-own agreement with younger farmers, while teaching them.  See the financing options listed at the financing page in the footer below. Specific to farming are farming-focused real estate investment trusts (REIT) and Slow Money loans. The Match for Free page in the header above might help you find others interested in co-founding a co-operative farm-based business.

7. Emergency preparedness PMAs or support contracts

Farms are a natural hub for establishing a mutual aid agreement that includes emergency preparedness. Members should receive a contract that outlines their responsibilities, such as volunteer work and or financial contribution. The benefits one receives in return can include the provision of food and shelter during a natural disaster or supply-chain disruption that causes a food shortage. See the Resources section below for details.