Thomas Roush

I'm a Bellaire-based potter, sheep shearer, and former educator. My farming journey started with a dream to homestead, and evolved into a 6-month shepherd's apprenticeship in New Hampshire, where I now work in community/rural development and shear sheep, in the hopes of starting my own livestock farm in Northern Michigan.

Preferred location: Alcona, Alger, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Baraga, Bay, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Chippewa, Clare, Clinton, Crawford, Delta, Dickinson, Eaton, Emmet, Gladwin, Gogebic, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Houghton, Huron, Ingham, Ionia, Iosco, Iron, Isabella, Kalkaska, Keweenaw, Leelanau, Luce, Mackinac, Manistee, Marquette, Mecosta, Menominee, Midland, Missaukee, Montcalm, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Ontonagon, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon, Saginaw, Sanilac, Schoolcraft, Shiawassee, Tuscola, Wexford

Desired Transitional Agreement: Farm Seeker/Farm Owner Partnership, Lease, Lease to buy, Mentorship, Working arrangement with future partner

Jul 5, 2026

Desired Acreage

  • 1-5 Acres
  • 5-10 Acres
  • 11-25 Acres
  • 26-100 Acres

Desired Infrastructure

  • Barns or other facilities
  • Electrical Access
  • Farm Equipment
  • Fencing

Desired Land Usage

  • Bees
  • Cattle - Beef
  • Cattle - Dairy
  • Flowers
  • Fruit
  • Fruit Trees
  • Goats - Dairy
  • Goats - Meat
  • Grains
  • Hay
  • Hemp
  • Pigs
  • Poultry - Meat
  • Sheep

Goals, Values, Vision

My experience as a practicing farmer is limited, but apart from my time as a sheep shearer, farm sitter, and shepherd's apprentice, I have spent hours researching methods and practices centered around regenerative agriculture. I'm inspired by farm leaders like Joel Saladin, Greg Judy, and Sarah Taber, who advocate for innovation in the farm sector, livestock, and crop management. Ideally, my farm would focus primarily on livestock, using rotational grazing methods to improve soil health and breed quality. Seeking a land arrangement and mentor to help build a foundation of knowledge around traditional methods, haying, breeding, and veterinary care before taking over an operation. I'm highly competent, hard-working, and driven to gain real skills in farming and agriculture. 

Farming Status

Current Farming Status

Not currently farming

Farm Experience/Education

Farm employee

Mentoring

I am seeking mentorship

Farming Plans and Practices