Rebirth of the Small Family Farm: A Handbook for Starting a Successful Organic Farm Based on the Community Supported Agriculture Concept (Paperback)

by Bonnie Gregson Bob Gregson (Author) "Our combined farming experience amounted to Bob's working in the eastern Washington wheat harvest during a high school summer, and Bonnie's weeks spent on her..." (more)
Key Phrases: Community Supported Agriculture, Eliot Coleman, Bill Mollison (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
This is a concise, yet complete handbook for starting a successful organic farm based on the community-supported agriculture concept. Written for farmers and non-farmers alike, the books illustrates how “two middle-aged novices” are making a decent living on less than two acres of land. Bob and Bonnie found few resources applicable to their situation when they began researching making their farm dream a reality and the book originally stemmed from their own desire to help others by sharing universal guidelines on small farm start-ups. The model explained in the book is an updated version of the diverse market gardens/farms found throughout recorded history. Not just a theory book, it details specific tools, techniques and how-to information. The Gregsons share sound advice, along with specific tools, marketing techniques, and planning guidelines, such as start up requirements, business plan basics, the importance of value-added products, choosing the best equipment and supplies, and more. The core of their operation, the subscription system, is examined in detail, with sound recommendations and guidelines for implementation.

About the Author
Bob and Bonnie Gregson walked away from their successful corporate management careers to build the farm of their dreams in the late 1980’s. Bonnie, born and raised in Seattle, worked in both construction management and medical clinic management. Bob served in the Army following his graduation from West Point, serving two combat terms in Vietnam. Later, he received an MBA at Dartmouth and held numerous management positions for several companies. The Gregsons sought to create a farm for the earth-friendly lifestyle where they could provide a valuable service to the community. In addition, the beautiful environment, never ending challenges and continuing education provided the Gregsons with the satisfaction, flexibility, and joy missing from their traditional careers. They enjoy raising healthy foods, working together, and spending time with their children and grandchildren.

Product Details

• Paperback: 64 pages
• Publisher: Acres USA (October 1, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0911311785
• ISBN-13: 978-0911311785
• Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 8.4 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #260,123 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Location dependent, January 3, 2007

By	e-teacher - See all my reviews

Aside from its wonderful inspirational value, the book is valuable mostly if you live in the right location to start such a project. This should be noted up front because if you live in a poor economic area where people can't afford subscriptions, you will not be able to make a go of it as it is described. Living in the Seattle area as the writers did, where many people appreciate organic foods and have the means to afford them, will of course make a better place for such a farm then let's say the backwoods somewhere where people have a hard time making ends meet. My point being that your location weighs heavily on the success of your organic farm. The potential buyer needs to know this before purchasing this book.