Whole Farm Management : from start-up to sustainability / edited by Garry Stephenson ; contributing authors: Nick Andrews, David Chaney, Melissa Fery, Amy Garrett, Lauren Gwin, Melissa Matthewson, Tanya Murray, Heidi Noordijk, Sherri Noxel, Maud Powell, Garry Stephenson, and Josh Volk.

Includes index

Growing A Farm -- Strategic Planning -- Farm Infrastructure, Labor, And Energy -- Markets And Marketing -- Business Management For The Farm -- Managing The Whole Farm Ecosystem -- Entrepreneurship, Family Business Dynamics, And Managing Risk.

Farming is a business, as well as a way of life. Whole Farm Management is a comprehensive guide developed by the Small Farms Program at Oregon State University to help aspiring and beginner farmers make smart business decisions to ensure lasting success. In clear, accessible language, this book covers every essential step, from developing a strategic plan to acquiring equipment, establishing infrastructure, finding markets, budgeting, managing day-to-day operations, and selecting a business structure for long-term viability. The emphasis throughout is on using sustainable agricultural systems and managing the whole farm, whether raising grass-based livestock, perennial food crops, or annual crops such as flowers. Case studies of successful farms, along with guidance and solutions to common problems from long-time farmers, round out this essential handbook.