Small Family Farms Can Survive [Opinion]
April 17, 2015 
Paul Rusnak
Did you know 97% of the 2.1 million farms in the U.S. are family-owned operations? Similarly, are you aware 88% of all U.S. farms are considered “small” family farms (gross cash farm income of less than $350,000)?
The latest version of USDA’s Census of Agriculture Farm Typology confirms these figures, which helps back the fact that family operations are still the foundation of farming.
It is reassuring amid the corporate climate our industry has experienced in more recent times that there is still room for the little guy, and — more importantly — a need.
Long And Short Of It
Though the sheer number of existing small family farms is more than impressive, the lion’s share of crop output is still being completed by larger farming operations. According to USDA’s report, 64% of all vegetable sales come from the 3% of farms that are large or very large (gross cash farm income of $1 million or more) family farms.
It’s like the “80/20 rule,” defined as where roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of causes. In this case, the percentage of crop production is even more skewed among the sectors.
However, this numerical disparity does not take away the impact small family farms have on the ag industry as a whole. For example, 58% of all direct farm sales to consumers come from small family farms. That statistic (courtesy of USDA) is good food for thought as the “buy local” produce trend continues to surge.
Tom West Blueberries, is a prime example of a small family farm that has sustained over time thanks to dedication, determination, and adaptability.
The Ocoee-based operation comprises a multigenerational endeavor that has re-invented itself in order to carry on the family’s way of life.
Entrenched for most of its existence in citrus production, the farm’s focus recently turned to blueberries. By making the fortuitous move, Tom West Blueberries has found a niche and is playing to its strengths.
For example, the farm is located between two schools in an area with significant urban development. While that could be a hindrance to some, this nimble operation is working with FDACS and the two learning institutions to provide fresh fruit as part of a Farm-To-School program. Talk about making the best of what’s around.
The Big Picture
Even with the small family farm so deeply woven into the fibers of Americana, is there a chance it all could unravel someday?
One reader posted a comment via GrowingProduce.com about this very scenario: “I wonder how this will change with the implementation of the FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act). I can see many of those ‘small’ farms going out of business with the increased cost of compliance.”
Good point. Impending regulations (to name a few) are a serious threat — always have been. Yet, the numbers don’t lie. For those that think big, there’s no challenge too large to overcome. Farm on!
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