A most interesting question. As a farmer who worked at another career, with no experience in farming, taking over the family farm land was an adventure. My definition of viability covers several factors. The first, which does not necessarily equate with economic viability is the value of the land. Converting land over to organic or sustainable production is viable in the sense that is promotes environmental benefits. There is great reward in seeing first hand the health land in renewal. Viability in personal satisfaction again cannot be tied to economical viability, but is none the less, extremely valuable. I personally find the utmost joy in farming. There is nothing more satisfying than living a life based on the land. Economic viability is another thing entirely. I have been farming now for ten years and my farm is economically viable. Fortunately, I was determined to fulfill my vision of renewing the land and being a good steward of the environment. My determination took me over the hill of economic stress and into the valley economic success. What it takes to be economically viable is determination, hard work and a good market. But, when I measure my own viability I cannot look at just the economics, important as it is, I must look at all three factors to determine my own personal viability as a farmer.
Vicki
Genesis Growers
8373 E 3000 S Rd
St Anne, Il 60964
815 953 1512
www.genesis-growers.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "Vicki Morrone" <
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To:
[log in to unmask]Sent: Monday, December 7, 2009 11:46:42 AM GMT -06:00 US/Canada Central
Subject: FW: What does viable farming mean to you?
Susan
Cocciarelli is an outreach specialist with the CS Mott Group at MSU. She works
with beginning farmers, helping to identify and create needed resources to help
them make the transition to viable farming. She would like to ask each of you
of your definition of economically viable sustainable farming. You can send
your response to “reply all” or if you prefer send to Susan Cocciarelli only
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Would like to hear YOUR thoughts…
People have been talking about farming that is sustainable and viable. I
thought I would throw the question out to everyone to hear your definition of
“economically viable” sustainable farming . How does a person determine
if his or her farming is viable?
susan
--
Susan Cocciarelli
Community Economic Development Specialist
CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU
309 Natural Resources
East Lansing, MI 48824
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517 432 4525
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