General farming (3 years+) - We have managed a large homestead garden and poultry flock for 10+ years, and have been developing our current garlic farm for 3.
Do you have a business plan?
Yes - We are looking to expand our garlic production to 30,000 heads on 1-2 acres.
Do you have financial resources available to start your farm?
Yes - At this time, we are prepared to cashflow our expansion.
Do you have access to other financial resources (such as a financial partner, loan, etc.) to start your farm?'
Yes
Project
Farm Name
Crowbourne Farm
Farm Project Description
We are a mature couple developing a farm as a second (third?) career. We live on a 2-acre property in Cobble Hill, where we breed and raise heritage layers, grow large gardens, and have planted a heritage apple orchard. We have been building a garlic business as well, and would like to expand it beyond what our current property can accommodate. We grow unique varieties of garlic that most local and bigger producers do not offer, and have been selling successfully to both home gardeners and consumers.
Preferred Arrangement
Lease -
Duration of the desired agreement
3-5 years minimum
Ideal date to obtain land by
We will need to prepare land for planting before October 2023.
Participant in BC Land Matching Program
Yes - This opportunity is participating in the BC Land Matching Program. Reach out to kiyomi@youngagrarians.org to start a conversation.
Land & Features Desired
Total Land Size (acres)
3/4-1 acre
Wooded Area (acres)
Yes
Cultivable Area (acres)
3/4 to 1 acre
Possibility to expand area currently available (acres)
Yes
Zoning
Either
Preferred current state of the surface of the cultivable area
We are prepared to improve pasture land if necessary. A perfect fit would be a 1 acre abandoned market garden with good soil, ready to plant in cover crops and garlic! Irrigation is a bonus but we can build/provide it; simple deer fencing may be necessary. A barn or other area for drying, curing, and storage would be a bonus, but not essential. We have a tractor and equipment; ideally the farm will be within a reasonable distance from our home in order to drive the tractor over. If farm machinery is available, we could lease further from home.
Open to landowner residing on property
Yes
Need farm buildings
Yes
Need fenced land
Yes
Need farm machinery and tools
Yes
Need established water source and infrastructure
Garlic is not a thirsty crop, but in dry years it is necessary in the spring. Cover crops would need some irrigation. We are comfortable setting up drip systems for the garlic rows and spray systems for cover crops.
Need on-site housing
Yes
Production type
Vegetable - Garlic
Type of agriculture
Other - We strive for organic methods, but don't intend to seek certification at this time.
Soil needs
Will acquire commercial insurance
Yes - We have not done this before but are open to it if appropriate.
