How does a 40 something man start a farm with very little experience?
Asked by Jim O
Now, I have some experience on a farm. I have work on and off a friends farm. Well, more like visited and offered an extra hand here and there. I have enjoyed what I have done and understand that it isn't an easy career. But right now I need a change. 14 years in a factory is taking its toll.

Best Answer:
You need to understand something from the start: Farming is not a way to make money. It is a nice way to live in a rural area that can provide some tax breaks, but unless you have a really good income from some other source, you are going to be very, very poor. Maybe others have a different experience, but that is how it looks in rural Western Oregon. As for your needed change, look around and try things. If you can move to a rural area and grow a garden, maybe that will do it for you. Get a more creative job in the city. Rearrange your schedule so you can volunteer with something that means something to you. Read the book "The Encyclopedia of Country Living." That is pretty much the A-Z in farm life--and tells you how to go about everything from buying land to butchering ducks. Maybe you don't have to marry yourself to daily farm life to get more outdoor time in your life...

Farming will finish you off then.. You better stick to the factory. You are not getting younger. A body in motion tends to stay in motion. Enjoy the helping out.
Answered by skahhh

Go to agriculture dept and find out if there is a program where older farmers help young farmers get or keep the business going...In PA it is here or was...
Answered by Patches6