What is the definition of a small farm
We purchased about 300 acres of gently undulating farmland in southern WA about two years ago. It has now been lying fallow for about 5 years (does that make it organic?) and is partly fenced (historical mallee/wire boundary fence that the emus and roos push down regularly) . We had absolutely no intentions of buying this much land but when I saw it, the views of the surrounding ranges captivated me so much I put in a very, very cheeky offer and it was accepted! Still pinching ourselves as we sit in our unfinished barn conversion, but scratching our heads big time as well. What do we do with it?? We're in our early 50s and looking at making an income from it that'll see us out till we drop of the front porch. Energy levels aren't like they used to be 20 years ago but we've got to find a way to make it work.
But what is the definition of a small farm? Our land is miniscule in comparison to the some of the farms around here. We're new to farming and the 55hp tractor and slasher gets a big workout. This land was originally a pioneering pastoral lease from the 1800s, then farmed as one parcel before being subdivided and sold off as 'lifestyle farms'. We have remnant canola, barley, oats, rye, and more recently, weeds galore including African box thorn in the creeks. We have to get on top of the weeds!! Sometimes I feel like running to the hills screaming - but, wait a minute! I've already done that.
Anyway, this is my intro as a new member on this website which I intend to frequent so cheers for now.