As a real estate investment, buying property for organic farms functions much like gold does as a safe and steady capital (read: money-maker). Increasingly, investors who are savvy enough to make large investments in organic farmland are seeing double-digit returns on their investment. But, more importantly, those who invest in organic farms are supporting local farmers and re-establishing the time-honored connection between eater and grower that will ensure that farming is not only a viable land use but also a vibrant landscape that is protected from sprawl.
The Organic Market Development Act was recently introduced in Congress by
Senator Tammy Baldwin, Sens. Angus King and Peter Welch, along with
Representatives Chellie Pingree and Anne Kuster. This bill is a critical piece of the overall organic marketplace and would support the expansion of the certified organic market in the United States by encouraging private impact investors to invest in organic production. Also read https://www.mobilehomedreamin.com/
Ancillary Uses
In addition to organic crops, organic land may be used for a variety of ancillary uses such as livestock and timber harvesting. It is important that any potential buyer of farmland understand the impact of these ancillary uses on their overall organic operation and the associated permitting process before purchasing.
Ensure Soil Health
In order to be certified organic, the land must be free of synthetic chemicals and fertilizers. Organic farming techniques, such as crop rotation and tillage, encourage soil fertility and help to prevent soil erosion. As a result, organic soil is richer in nutrients and more resilient to weather events such as drought.
Moreover, organic crops require less energy than conventional agriculture to grow. This reduces the overall carbon footprint and contributes to climate change mitigation efforts.
When considering a piece of land for an organic farm, it is crucial to take into account the local infrastructure and amenities such as access to water and electricity. Ideally, the property should be close to an urban area for transportation and access to markets.
The final consideration is the quality of the soil. It is important to know that the soil must be suitable for the type of crops being grown. This is determined by a variety of factors including temperature, moisture, and pH levels. In general, the best soil for organic agriculture is light, well-drained, sandy loam or silty loam. It must be deep enough to provide sufficient drainage and have adequate depth for tillage without compaction. In addition, the soil must be fertile to support a healthy plant with a sufficient amount of organic matter and microbial activity. The best way to test soil quality is to have a soil sample tested. This can be done by a soil testing laboratory such as the Organic Materials Review Institute. The lab will be able to determine the soil quality and make recommendations for improvement.