Farm Expansion

Now, that we decided to make a firm commitment to expand our farming operations, we also determined that we needed more land to accomplish our goals.  Our livestock numbers, since the addition of sheep in August, were pushing our current acreage limits. 

Rent? Buy? Rent? Buy?  Renting property adjacent to our farm would be ideal, but there was nothing, at the moment, available to lease. 

Recently an opportunity presented us the answer - buy!  So, as of this past Friday, we purchased  55+ acres near the village of Fairfield - about a ten minute drive from the now, main farm. The property consists of a large hay barn with adjoining silo (very picturesque), a livestock shed, and a full 55 acres of pasture traversed by a spring-fed creek with distant mountain views. The pastures contains a few, lengthy rock ledges, but with our new management of all graze/no mechanical hay production; the land is perfect.  And, we can divide the livestock to ideal numbers on each farm.

The neighboring properties; a dairy farm and a restored historic home with wildflower meadow and  antique shop, are owned by acquaintances from a few years back. So, we are not exactly new to the surrounding landowners. The property is bounded on one side by an abandoned railroad grade adding a bit of history to the property itself.

But, all is not as pleasant as it seems.  This property has been leased for years, the buildings left to deteriorate, the fencing questionable at best, old machinery scattered throughout the barn lot, as well as trash piled in the buildings.

What I am trying to say is that this farm needs a lot of work, more than just a bit of TLC. 

Once the old tenant leaves; hint, hint...we can get to work - first on clean-up , then on reconstruction. 

This property is bounded by two public roads and is a great location for potential customers to drive by any time to view this operation and some of our product.  At least, that is the plan, the goal.

I love old barns!  We do not have one on our main farm.

So today you get the before view.  And, regularly (I say that with a lot of hope), I will present progress on the after view.