Farmer Toolkit
Are you currently raising animals and interested in trying new types of farming with better prospects?
The Farmer Toolkit guides animal farmers on transitioning to plant-focused operations. Bringing together technical expertise, financial resources, and market insights, it offers farmers a way to learn and explore their options. The Farmer Toolkit is a collaborative project between Transfarmation and Animal Outlook.
State-Specific Resources
The Farmer Toolkit compiles nationally and regionally available resources throughout the website. The directory below provides a quick overview of state-specific resources. Select your state from the dropdown menu to view what may be available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I transition my farm?
This website provides tools and educational resources to help create a farm transition plan. We recommend starting with our map feature to explore crop information for your state, and then checking out the funding sources page to learn about available financial assistance.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Our funding sources page offers a robust list of available funding options, including any direct assistance provided by partner organizations if available.
What resources do you have to help me transition my farm?
This toolkit contains information on the nuts and bolts of a farm transition, including an overview of funding and financing sources, guides to growing specific crops, and guidance on marketing crops.
What crops can I transition to growing?
We are excited to support farmers’ transitions to growing specialty crops for human consumption and diversifying their income streams. So far, we’ve helped farmers transition to specialty mushroom, vegetable, microgreen, cut flower, and leafy green production as well as agrotourism.
Where can I see examples of farms that have transitioned?
Can you connect me to farmers who have gone through the process?
Please reach out directly to our partner organizations. Tell us which kind of farm transition you want to learn more about, and we’ll do our best to connect you to a farmer with specialized experience.
What happens to my contract if I begin to transition?
Farm transitions are intended to provide pathways for farmers to permanently exit the contract livestock, poultry, or dairy system. However, you can begin transitioning your farm before ending your current contract. Many farmers explore plant-focused ventures or other options while still operating under contract with their integrators or processors. We recommend that you consult a legal professional regarding your specific contract before finalizing your transition plans.
What happens to waste-management operations on my current farm?
You’ll want to create a plan for managing your farm’s animal waste before you transition. You may be responsible for certain remediation efforts once you are no longer under contract with an integrator. You may also need to reconsider existing waste-disposal contracts. We suggest that you contact your local extension office for their recommendations on waste management.