The Family Farm

Written by Mark Carroll, Land and Farm Specialist

“There are two spiritual Dangers in not owning a farm. One is the danger of supposing that

Breakfast comes from the grocery, and the other that heat comes from the furnace.”

-Aldo Leopold, A Sand County Almanac

Farming has much more to offer than just providing fresh meats and produce. Working your

own land to provide food for your family can come with the benefits of knowing exactly where

your groceries begin, what went into their production, and an increased amount of

appreciation for what is on the dinner table. Family farms provide opportunities to teach

children the responsibilities of taking care of another living thing through planning, patience,

and hard work. Farms are usually thought of as a large tract of land that is passed down from

generations that may be out of reach for many people. However, owning a productive farm

may not take the large acreage tract most folks might imagine.

The Brad Liles and Associates Land and Farm team recently went to visit a local mini farm in

Pauline, SC. The owners demonstrated how they raise their own beef, pork, and chicken on

approximately two acres of pasture land. The family works together each day to ensure that all

the livestock are cared for and that their fridges and freezers are full. The children help with

feeding and watering, collecting eggs from the coup, and harvesting vegetables from the

garden. This family uses a rotational grazing strategy that maximizes their use of the land.

While the pigs are rooting around in the soil, the chickens stay close by to pick off

invertebrates. After the pigs have tilled the soil, they are moved to a new block while the

previous block is reseeded for the cattle to graze. This family not only has the opportunity to

grow their own food on a couple of acres, but they have the opportunity to grow closer

together through their hard work and time spent together doing what they love.

If you are looking to sell or buy your own mini farm, give us a call and we can help you find your next little piece of paradise to raise your family and food together.