Hello, I’m a single father working full-time as a controls engineer, earning around $85,000 annually. I’ve always dreamed of starting my own farm, but I don’t have any land to inherit or take over. Property prices today are overwhelming—especially for farmers. While they may make sense to developers, those prices don’t reflect the value to someone like me, who wants to preserve and build upon a retiring farmer’s legacy rather than see it sold off and lost. My dream is to live on a farm, bring fresh products to local markets, raise animals, and cultivate the land to create a thriving ecosystem—one rooted in growth, health, and sustainability.
Preferred location: Allegan, Arenac, Barry, Bay, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Clare, Clinton, Eaton, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, Ottawa, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Joseph, Tuscola, Van Buren
Desired Transitional Agreement: Farm Seeker/Farm Owner Partnership, Working arrangement with future partner
May 9, 2025
Desired Acreage
- 26-100 Acres
Desired Infrastructure
Desired Land Usage
Goals, Values, Vision
My main interest in farming is starting a cow-calf operation, along with raising sheep for both meat and wool—if the market supports it. I want to fully embrace local farming on a small to medium scale that I can manage myself, with the help of 5 to 7 seasonal employees.
In addition to livestock, I’d love to keep bees for honey and tap maple trees for syrup if the property allows. I also have a vision of building biothermal greenhouses to grow fruits and vegetables year-round—possibly even citrus and avocados. These would be supported by an integrated aquaponics system, using fish to naturally fertilize the plants.
Long term, I want this farm to become a place where people can come to learn about sustainable agriculture and the symbiotic relationships between plants, animals, and ecosystems. It’s an ambitious vision, but one I truly believe is attainable—especially for someone like me who is hardworking, motivated, passionate, and eager to learn.
What I’m missing is a mentor—someone who can teach me the ins and outs of raising cattle and sheep and managing a farm. Tell me what to do, and I’ll get it done.
Currently, I work full-time on the night shift (40 hours/week). My plan is to farm from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and dedicate 12-hour days to the farm on Fridays and Saturdays. I intend to follow this schedule for the first few years until I decide whether to transition to full-time farming or continue balancing both careers until I eventually retire and farm full-time.
Farming Status
Current Farming Status
Not currently farming
Farm Experience/Education
No experience farming
Mentoring
I am seeking mentorship
Farming Plans and Practices
Farming Method
Organic Practices
