Small-Scale Farms ­ Big Time Impact



March 14, 1997

Greensboro, NC: From the hardware store to the barber shop, the economy of rural America often depends on the success of its local farms. When small-scale farmers struggle or prosper, so too do the rural communities which depend on them.

"Local farmers, many of whom manage relatively small-scale operations, play a major role in the economies of rural communities," says Dr. John M. O'Sullivan, a farm management and marketing specialist with the North Carolina A&T State University Cooperative Extension Program. "Research has shown that local farmers keep their money in the community by spending a large share of their dollars at locally owned businesses."

O'Sullivan also points out that local, "family farmers" are more likely to contribute time to their communities by becoming involved in organizations or through other means. "The local farmer is often viewed as part of the community, and this eliminates 'us vs. them' issues when environmental and other concerns arise."

Communities often return the favor by giving farmers a reliable and profitable market. According to O'Sullivan, by selling locally at farmers markets and other outlets, and thereby avoiding the "middle-man" and other costs incurred when producing for a mass market, farmers are often able to retain 70 to 80 percent of the retail price of commodities.

Statistics indicate that farmers from the coastal plains to the mountains are making farmers markets key components in their market plans. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture shows 1996 sales at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh at more than $72 million, while the Western North Carolina Farmers Market in Asheville showed a 1996 sales figure of more than $45 million.

"In the next five or six years, agriculture in North Carolina will undergo a major transition," said O'Sullivan, citing the time period remaining on government programs for tobacco and peanuts, two traditional mainstays on the state's family owned farms.

According to O'Sullivan, the expiration of these programs, coupled with the high average age of farmers, could mean an end to many small-scale family-owned farms. Still, the situation is not hopeless.

"Many small-scale farmers in the state are doing really well by capitalizing on the opportunities provided by niche markets, such as range-fed chickens and cut flowers," said O'Sullivan. "By combining quality products with good service, these farmers are able to gain customer loyalty."

As an 1890 land-grant institution, the NC A&T Cooperative Extension Program focuses much of its attention on small-scale agriculture. One such effort is Small Farms Week, an annual tribute to the nearly 40,000 small-scale farmers of North Carolina.

The 1997 celebration is scheduled for April 6 to 12 ­ a week designated for this observance by Governor Jim Hunt and Commissioner of Agriculture Jim Graham.

Small Farm's Week activities on the A&T campus are open free of charge to the public. However, advance registration is required. To register or for more information of Small Farm's Week, please call Dr. Daniel Lyons, NC A&T Cooperative Extension Program, (336) 334-7956.

- 30 -

For more information, please contact Dr. John O'Sullivan, NC A&T Cooperative Extension Program, (336) 334-7956.