Training
- Farm management (3 years+) -
Do you have a business plan?
Yes
Do you have financial resources available to start your farm?
No - I aim to establish a sustainable sheep farming business in Vancouver, starting with 50 to 80 sheep. Leveraging my extensive family background in sheep farming, the business will focus on producing high-quality meat for local markets, capitalizing on the growing demand for ethically and locally sourced products.Business Operations Initial Flock: 50 to 80 sheep, focusing on meat breeds such as Dorper or Suffolk. Land Requirements: 10-20 acres of grazing land with access to water. Proper fencing and shelter for sheep. Daily Operations: Grazing management, feeding, breeding, and health care. Breeding Plan: Expand the flock over time through controlled breeding.
Do you have access to other financial resources (such as a financial partner, loan, etc.) to start your farm?'
Yes - Yes, I am looking for financial resources to start my farm. Specifically, I am interested in exploring grants and loans tailored for new farmers or agricultural businesses in British Columbia. Additionally, I am open to investor partnerships if they align with my business goals.
Farm Name
Adelia & Behyad
Farm Project Description
I am establishing a sheep farming business near Vancouver, focusing on raising 50 to 80 sheep for meat production. My goal is to create a sustainable and ethical operation, leveraging my extensive family experience in sheep farming. The farm will prioritize high-quality meat for local markets, such as restaurants, butcher shops, and farmers' markets.
The project involves securing agricultural land with adequate grazing space, building necessary infrastructure, and implementing best practices for livestock care and breeding. Over time, the business will scale to meet growing demand for locally sourced, sustainable meat products.
Preferred Arrangement
- Registered Lease on Title -
- Lease -
Duration of the desired agreement
I am looking for a long-term agreement, ideally 5 to 10 years, to establish and grow my sheep farming business sustainably. This duration will provide the stability needed to build infrastructure, manage livestock effectively, and develop strong market connections
Ideal date to obtain land by
I hope to obtain land by March 2025 to begin preparations for the sheep farming business and ensure the operation is ready for the grazing season.
Total Land Size (acres)
I am looking for a minimum of 1 acre of land, which will include space for a sheep barn, grazing area, and necessary infrastructure to support the initial flock of 50 to 80 sheep.
Cultivable Area (acres)
I am not specifically looking for a wooded area for the farm, but if the land includes some wooded space, it could be beneficial for shade or shelter for the sheep. Ideally, the majority of the land would be open for grazing, but I am open to land with some natural wooded areas as part of the overall property.I am looking for at least 1 acre of cultivable area that can be used for grazing the sheep. This area should have good soil quality and proper drainage to support sustainable pasture for the flock. Any additional cultivable space would be a plus for future expansion or additional agricultural activities.
Possibility to expand area currently available (acres)
Yes - I am open to the possibility of expanding the area in the future. Ideally, I would like the option to add 5 to 10 additional acres if the farming operation grows and more grazing space or infrastructure becomes necessary. This would allow for scalability as the sheep flock expands over time.
Preferred current state of the surface of the cultivable area
I prefer the cultivable area to be ready for grazing with well-maintained pasture, ideally with minimal clearing or preparation required. It would be ideal if the land has good soil quality, proper drainage, and is free from invasive plants or weeds. However, I am open to land that requires some improvements to make it suitable for grazing.
Open to landowner residing on property
Yes - Yes, I am open to the possibility of the landowner residing on the property, as long as it does not interfere with the farming operations. I am looking for a mutually respectful arrangement that allows for the smooth running of the sheep farming business while maintaining privacy and operational independence.
Need farm buildings
Yes - Yes, I will need farm buildings, specifically a sheep barn to house the flock, especially during harsh weather. The barn should provide enough space for the sheep and be suitable for their care, feeding, and health management. Additional storage space for feed, equipment, and tools would also be beneficial.
Need fenced land
Yes - Yes, I do need fenced land to ensure the safety and security of the sheep. The fencing should be sturdy enough to keep the flock contained and protect them from potential predators. Ideally, the fencing should be suitable for livestock, such as high-quality wire or electric fencing.
Need farm machinery and tools
No
Need established water source and infrastructure
For my sheep farming operation, I will need sufficient water volume and infrastructure to support the flock's grazing and drinking needs. Specifically, I would require: Reliable water source – ideally a well, creek, or access to municipal water, with sufficient flow and quality to support the sheep’s daily consumption. Water troughs – enough to ensure all the sheep have access to clean water at all times, placed strategically in the grazing areas and barn. Water storage – tanks or reservoirs to store water during dry periods or for emergency use. Pipes and plumbing – to distribute water to different parts of the farm, including pastures, the sheep barn, and any additional infrastructure. The water infrastructure must be well-maintained and capable of meeting the needs of the farm throughout the year.
Need on-site housing
Yes - Yes, I will need housing on-site for myself and potentially a small team to manage the farm. This could be a modest farmhouse or mobile home for living accommodations, as proximity to the farm is essential for daily operations, especially during lambing season or adverse weather conditions. If housing is not already available, I would be open to exploring the possibility of building or arranging for temporary accommodations on the property.
Soil needs
I am looking for well-drained soil with good fertility, ideally loamy or sandy loam, which is well-suited for grazing and pasture growth. The soil should support healthy grass and forage growth for the sheep, with proper water retention and minimal erosion. Soil that is easily managed for sustainable farming practices would be ideal.
Will acquire commercial insurance
Yes - I am willing to acquire commercial insurance for the farm and will name the property owner as 'additionally insured' on the insurance policy to ensure mutual protection and compliance with the terms of the lease or agreement.
