Matt Greenman

My vision is to establish a thriving, sustainable family farm in Michigan that produces clean, high-quality food for my community while serving as a legacy for my two young boys. I see a farm that balances productivity with environmental stewardship, where my family works together, deeply connected to the land and free from the distractions of screens. The farm will be a place of learning, hard work, and pride, rooted in Michigan’s rich agricultural tradition. I envision a mentor-guided journey where I transition from a novice to a skilled farmer, eventually owning and operating my own land, contributing to local food systems, and inspiring others to embrace sustainable farming.

Goals:

1.  Learn Farming from a Mentor: Partner with an experienced retiring farmer who can teach me the practical, hands-on skills of farming, from crop management to livestock care, over the next 3–5 years.

2.  Establish a Sustainable Farm: Within 7–10 years, own and operate a diversified farm that produces clean, organic, or regenerative food (e.g., vegetables, fruits, or livestock) tailored to Michigan’s climate and market demands.

3.  Involve My Family: Engage my two boys in daily farm tasks from a young age to instill a strong work ethic, respect for nature, and practical skills, ensuring they grow up grounded and capable.

4.  Contribute to Michigan Agriculture: Become an active member of Michigan’s farming community by joining organizations like the Michigan Farm Bureau and supplying local markets with sustainable produce or products.

5.  Financial Viability: Develop a profitable farm operation through smart planning, leveraging USDA loans, and exploring innovative models like Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) or direct-to-consumer sales.

6.  Continuous Learning: Enroll in MSU Extension programs and other agricultural training to build expertise in soil health, pest management, and farm business planning within the first 2 years.

Values:

•  Sustainability: Prioritize regenerative farming practices that protect Michigan’s soil, water, and ecosystems for future generations.

•  Community: Build strong relationships with local farmers, consumers, and agricultural organizations to foster a resilient food system.

•  Family: Center the farm around family unity, teaching my boys the value of hard work, perseverance, and connection to nature.

•  Integrity: Produce clean, ethical food that I’m proud to share with my community, free from harmful chemicals or shortcuts.

•  Resilience: Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow as a farmer, no matter how steep the learning curve.

•  Humility: Approach farming with a beginner’s mindset, eager to learn from mentors, peers, and the land itself.