Transition from Traditional Grain or Livestock Agriculture to On-farm Roadside Marketing of Produce

1997 Annual Report for FNC97-183

Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 1997: $5,000.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/1998
Region: North Central
State: Michigan
Project Coordinator:

Transition from Traditional Grain or Livestock Agriculture to On-farm Roadside Marketing of Produce

Summary

Pamela Bosserd and her family have been transitioning their farm to a more sustainable system since 1997, and educating others in the process. To keep their family farm alive, the Bosserds are trying to diversify as much as possible.
The SARE grant enabled the Bosserds to try to capitalize on their location between two busy cities. They tested whether diversifying from crops to direct-market vegetables sold at an on-site produce market would increase profits. Pamela also wanted to evaluate whether educating area families - particularly youth -- about their farm would increase sales.
The Bosserds raise 1,200 acres of corn, beans, and wheat, but increased to 32 acres of vegetables for direct marketing. They also increased sweet corn acreage from 15 to 25 acres. To increase yields, the farm is now drip-irrigated (with the exception of sweet corn) and crops are grown over black plastic mulch. These practices combined with integrated pest management practices have reduced the amount of chemicals that the crops require to stay healthy, as well as increased their yields. The Bosserds also fatten Holstein steers and contract to finish hogs for a local hog farmer.
Pamela started selling produce out of a pick-up truck in 1997. With help from her producer grant, they built an enclosed farm stand and issued a customer survey. From survey results, the Bosserds found that freshness is the most important aspect of a produce stand to a customer, followed by convenience and selection. They continued to grow their direct-marketing business, selling both out of the stand and from an authentic wagon.
Farm tours are another important aspect of their diversification. The Bosserds have hosted at least 1,000 young students on their farm, from pre-school to third grade. The family hopes to educate children and reconnect people with their food supply. Children who visit the farm can learn about agricultural practices, how plants grow, play in the corn or straw mazes and pet baby farm animals. Pamela Bosserd plans to continue these diverse, sustainable practices indefinitely, and hopes that her children will have the opportunity to expand and continue them as well.