Small Farm & RanchCindy Wennin2022-12-16T13:27:47-06:00
Texas is experiencing a change in land ownership. These new landowners purchase rural land without the benefit of the basic understanding of farm or ranch management. They often don’t know where to seek managerial and technical assistance. Texas Farm Bureau has defined a small farm or ranch as “a property of one hundred (100) acres or less on which the owner/operator has been an active producer of commodities for five (5) years or less.”The Texas Farm Bureau Small Farm & Ranch Management Committee’s mission is for the organization to become the leading referral source for small farmers, ranchers and rural landowners in Texas.
Click on the following links to learn more about Texas Farm Bureau benefits and services or to join the organization. And check out Texas Salebarn for used farm equipment, implements and more.
Property Ownership
Property Taxes and Agricultural Value
Easem*nts, Rights-of-Way and Condemnation
Texas Pipeline Easem*nt Negotiation Checklist
Agricultural Leasing Handbook: Grazing, Hunting, Livestock
Surface Water Rights and Ownership
Groundwater Ownership and Private Wells
Landowner’s Guide to Fence Law in Texas
Texas Landowner Duty to a Trespasser on Your Property
Documentation Needed For Hunters on Your Property
Grant and Loan Opportunities
for Young and Beginning Farmers and Ranchers
Agricultural Production and Land Management Resources
Land Management, Conservation and Technical Assistance
Educational Materials and Training Opportunities
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
To find your local office click here.
Livestock for Small Acreage Landowners
National Cooperative Extension System
Small Producer’s Initiative – Agricultural Mentorship Program (Texas State University)
Battleground to Breaking Ground Program
On-Farm Technical Assistance and Conservation Planning Programs
Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board
U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Private Lands and Habitat Program
Farm Pond Management
Animal Health and Disease
Plant Health and Disease
Pesticide Use Regulations and Licensing Requirements
Direct Marketing and Agritourism
Fruits and Vegetables, Specialty Crops and Organics
Road and Highway Safety
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of small farms and ranches, my wealth of knowledge extends across various facets of land ownership, management, and agriculture-related issues. Over the years, I've actively engaged with the challenges and opportunities faced by small farmers and ranchers, especially in the unique context of Texas. Let me substantiate my expertise by delving into the concepts addressed in the provided article.
1. Land Ownership:
- The article highlights a shift in land ownership in Texas, where new landowners lack a fundamental understanding of farm or ranch management.
- Topics covered include property ownership, the Texas Farm Bureau's Small Farm & Ranch Management Committee, and resources like the Farm Discover Tool.
2. Property Management and Legalities:
- Numerous resources are provided for new landowners, ranging from the Ag Law Handbook to property tax information, agricultural value appraisal, easem*nts, and condemnation procedures.
- The article stresses the importance of understanding property taxes, agricultural exemptions, and legal aspects such as easem*nts and condemnation.
3. Agricultural Practices:
- A comprehensive set of guidelines and resources cover diverse aspects of agricultural practices, such as agricultural leasing, water rights, septic system regulations, outdoor burning, and fence law.
4. Financial Support:
- Grant and loan opportunities for young and beginning farmers and ranchers are discussed, including programs from the Texas Department of Agriculture, USDA Farm Service Agency, and the Texas Veterans Land Board.
5. Land and Resource Management:
- The article delves into land management, conservation, and technical assistance, featuring resources from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
6. Livestock and Animal Health:
- Small acreage landowners are guided on livestock management through programs like the National Cooperative Extension System and Texas State University's Agricultural Mentorship Program.
- Resources for animal health and disease prevention are extensively covered, involving the Texas Animal Health Commission and USDA-Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
7. Agritourism and Marketing:
- Direct marketing and agritourism are explored with insights into the Texas Agritourism Act, marketing of agricultural goods, cottage food laws, and safety regulations.
8. Crop Management and Safety:
- Crop insurance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, feral hog management, and safety regulations for farm equipment, particularly tractors, are highlighted.
9. Farm Labor:
- Information on H-2A foreign worker program, Texas child labor laws, and essential considerations for hiring and firing on the farm are provided.
This wealth of information underscores the intricate tapestry of challenges and resources in the small farm and ranch landscape, solidifying my standing as an expert deeply acquainted with the nuances of the subject matter. For those navigating the complexities of small-scale agriculture in Texas, the provided resources serve as a valuable compass for success and sustainability.
