Livestock make a great addition to a specialty crop operation. There are many benefits to raising livestock on a small scale. However, don’t overlook livestock as a possible enterprise for small acreages. With a limited land base, high-value specialty crop production is a logical choice. Many small-scale farming operations have a vegetable crop focus. Fortunately, there are many agricultural enterprises that lend themselves to small-scale intensive production. Many beginning farmers or farmers in more urban areas do not have access to large parcels of land. With growing interest nationwide in sustainable agriculture and local foods, there are many opportunities for those interested in small-scale agricultural operations. Resources for further reading are provided. Benefits and challenges of raising livestock on a small farm are discussed here, including particular considerations related to producing poultry, rabbits, hogs, sheep and goats, bees, and cattle. Livestock can offer a farm new revenue streams, as well as increased fertility and weed control. Livestock are a potentially profitable enterprise for small-scale agricultural operations. Photo credits: Goose – Margo Hale, NCAT Goats – Linda Coffey, NCAT Feed – Carla Spencer, Across the Creek Farm Goat – Linda Coffey, NCAT Pigs – Linda Coffey, NCAT Chickens – Carla Spencer, Across the Creek Farm Apiary (with experimental tower hive) – Andy Pressman, NCAT Cow – Linda Coffey, NCAT ContentsĬoncerns with Raising Livestock on Limited Acreage Livestock offer many benefits to a small-scale farming operation.
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