Seeking 1 – 5 Acres for lease/rent in Lane County

Land Seeker Description

I’m looking for land that can be used for raising poultry, rabbits, and hogs. I am also interested in growing culinary herbs, spices, and seasonal berries. I’m looking for the opportunity to start a functional and sustainable small farm. I have worked in many different farms and ranches in Oregon using the WWOOF program (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms) and I’m familiar with what works and what doesn’t. I am eager to start relationships with local business owners and other trade groups to help with the cost and community reputation. For poultry I am interested in gathering eggs and butchering meat chickens while also using them as natural control for insects and other pests with a rotating coop. Rabbits would be used for keeping produce waste at minimal and converting it into fertilizer that’s not hot, so it’s easily available to use in our soil for the herb, spice or berries garden. Hogs will be used for low cost butcher and breeding stock. Everything I’m hoping to accomplish is to be considered sustainable, low cost, and low overhead

What features of the property are essential?

I would need land that has some type of access to water.
Shed or Barn would be useful for keeping tools and feed locked up, but I am willing to invest in my own if this isn't immediately available.

Describe your farming experience

I have experience in multiple aspects of farming. I've volunteered through different program in Oregon farming and have even worked with Food For Lane County community farm. I've raised and butchered pigs while farming in Creswell, OR and I've also raised chickens for laying and meat in Hermiston, OR. I've experienced what partnerships are needed with local businesses to keep the cost low and to establish fruitful relationships with them. I'm also experienced with grant writing and hope to use that experience to offer community involvement with the farm.

Are you currently farming?

What are your short term goals for the land

My short term goals are to have a solid understanding of the needs of the specific land I'm using. From how much produce waste happens, to how much feed is needed. I would like to start producing and selling eggs / meat from poultry while fattening up hogs for butchering and breeding. Seasonal fruits, berries, and vegetables would be expected too. I am confident I can start selling within the local community of Lane County through street markets, CSA's, and seasonal event booths.

What are your long term goals

My long term goals are to establish a functional and profitable farm that's deep rooted within the Willamette Valley community. I hope to expand over the years with more variety and methods that best suit the needs of the land I use. I am open to hearing and adapting my goals to the land owners ideas.

Describe your housing needs

While living on location would help, it's not absolutely needed. I live in Lane so I'm able to commute to and from any land location. I would be interested in renting a home on the property if that's an option though.

What will you do as a farmer to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone on your farm and in your community?

I would ensure a safe and welcoming environment by implementing a friendly and educational system to the farm. I believe farms can be used to educate community members to help them learn about how organic farming works and the precautions used while handling livestock. Farming is not only a business, but is also a place for people to learn more about themselves and others, regardless of background.