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NORMA'S BASKET
Stewardship. Empowerment. Innovation.
OUR MISSION.
At Norma's Basket, our mission is to empower farmers and elevate agriculture through innovation, knowledge sharing, and diligent stewardship of our natural resources. We are dedicated to creating an environment where agricultural endeavors thrive, ensuring food security, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability.
Checklist for Inspecting a Small Farm
1. Land and Soil
• Test soil fertility, pH, and contamination.
• Check topography, drainage, and flood risks.
• Assess water sources (wells, ponds) and irrigation systems.
• Verify zoning and land use restrictions.
2. Buildings and Infrastructure
• Inspect farmhouse and outbuildings for structural soundness, utilities, and pest issues.
• Evaluate barns, storage, fencing, and workshops.
• Test functionality of equipment (if included).
3. Utilities
• Verify electricity, water systems, and septic functionality.
• Assess waste management for livestock and chemicals.
4. Livestock and Crops
• Check livestock health and housing.
• Assess pastures, current crops, pest issues, and vegetation.
5. Legal and Environmental
• Confirm boundaries with a survey.
• Check for easements, zoning compliance, and environmental hazards.
• Ensure permits and licenses are in place.
6. Financial and Market Factors
• Review contracts, subsidies, and existing operations.
• Assess proximity to markets and agricultural support services.
• Evaluate potential for expansion or diversification.
7. Professional Help
• Hire inspectors for soil, water, structures, and environment.
• Get a certified appraisal and legal review.
This streamlined approach ensures you cover critical aspects while saving time.
1. Land and Soil
• Test soil fertility, pH, and contamination.
• Check topography, drainage, and flood risks.
• Assess water sources (wells, ponds) and irrigation systems.
• Verify zoning and land use restrictions.
2. Buildings and Infrastructure
• Inspect farmhouse and outbuildings for structural soundness, utilities, and pest issues.
• Evaluate barns, storage, fencing, and workshops.
• Test functionality of equipment (if included).
3. Utilities
• Verify electricity, water systems, and septic functionality.
• Assess waste management for livestock and chemicals.
4. Livestock and Crops
• Check livestock health and housing.
• Assess pastures, current crops, pest issues, and vegetation.
5. Legal and Environmental
• Confirm boundaries with a survey.
• Check for easements, zoning compliance, and environmental hazards.
• Ensure permits and licenses are in place.
6. Financial and Market Factors
• Review contracts, subsidies, and existing operations.
• Assess proximity to markets and agricultural support services.
• Evaluate potential for expansion or diversification.
7. Professional Help
• Hire inspectors for soil, water, structures, and environment.
• Get a certified appraisal and legal review.
This streamlined approach ensures you cover critical aspects while saving time.
Digging a well for a farm is a significant undertaking, requiring careful planning, proper equipment, and adherence to regulations. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the main steps you need to follow:
1. Planning and Research Assess Water Needs: Determine the water demand based on your farm’s size, crops, livestock, and irrigation systems. Survey Groundwater Availability: Consult local hydrogeologists or groundwater experts to identify potential water sources and ensure feasibility. Legal Requirements: Research local regulations, permits, and restrictions related to well construction and water usage. Budget Estimation: Plan for expenses, including drilling, casing, pump installation, and maintenance.
2. Site Selection Hydrogeological Survey: Conduct tests to identify a location with a sufficient and reliable water supply. Accessibility: Choose a location that is easily accessible for drilling equipment and maintenance. Distance from Contaminants: Ensure the site is far from septic systems, waste disposal areas, or any potential contaminants.
3. Engaging Professionals Hire a Licensed Driller: Work with an experienced and certified well driller who understands local geology and regulations. Obtain Permits: Ensure all necessary permits are acquired before commencing work.
4. Drilling the Well Equipment Mobilization: Prepare the site for drilling by clearing access paths and ensuring proper safety measures. Drilling Process: Use appropriate equipment (rotary drills, cable tool rigs, or hand augers, depending on depth and geology) to reach the aquifer. Depth Consideration: Drill deep enough to access a reliable and sustainable water source, often determined by hydrogeological studies.
1. Planning and Research Assess Water Needs: Determine the water demand based on your farm’s size, crops, livestock, and irrigation systems. Survey Groundwater Availability: Consult local hydrogeologists or groundwater experts to identify potential water sources and ensure feasibility. Legal Requirements: Research local regulations, permits, and restrictions related to well construction and water usage. Budget Estimation: Plan for expenses, including drilling, casing, pump installation, and maintenance.
2. Site Selection Hydrogeological Survey: Conduct tests to identify a location with a sufficient and reliable water supply. Accessibility: Choose a location that is easily accessible for drilling equipment and maintenance. Distance from Contaminants: Ensure the site is far from septic systems, waste disposal areas, or any potential contaminants.
3. Engaging Professionals Hire a Licensed Driller: Work with an experienced and certified well driller who understands local geology and regulations. Obtain Permits: Ensure all necessary permits are acquired before commencing work.
4. Drilling the Well Equipment Mobilization: Prepare the site for drilling by clearing access paths and ensuring proper safety measures. Drilling Process: Use appropriate equipment (rotary drills, cable tool rigs, or hand augers, depending on depth and geology) to reach the aquifer. Depth Consideration: Drill deep enough to access a reliable and sustainable water source, often determined by hydrogeological studies.
Farm land is essentially to being self sufficient. #farm #farmer #agriculture #usda #loan #grants #minority #women #veteran #millennial
Here are three excellent books that can help you grow as a small farmer and business owner:
1. “The Lean Farm: How to Minimize Waste, Increase Efficiency, and Maximize Value and Profits with Less Work” by Ben Hartman
• Why Read It? This book teaches small farmers how to apply lean manufacturing principles to farming. It focuses on minimizing waste, improving efficiency, and boosting profitability, all while maintaining sustainability.
• Key Takeaway: Learn how to streamline operations, reduce unnecessary labor, and make your farm a more productive and enjoyable place to work.
2. “You Can Farm: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Start and Succeed in a Farming Enterprise” by Joel Salatin
• Why Read It? This book is a practical guide for aspiring small-scale farmers. Joel Salatin combines entrepreneurial advice with sustainable farming practices, helping farmers turn their passion into a profitable business.
• Key Takeaway: Discover ways to start and manage a thriving farming business with limited capital, focusing on innovative, low-cost solutions.
3. “The Organic Farmer’s Business Handbook: A Complete Guide to Managing Finances, Crops, and Staff—and Making a Profit” by Richard Wiswall
• Why Read It? This book focuses on the business side of farming, providing insights on financial planning, record-keeping, and marketing strategies tailored for small organic farms.
• Key Takeaway: Understand how to effectively manage your farm as a business, with tools and strategies to maximize profitability and sustainability.
These books offer practical, actionable advice and will empower you to run your farm more effectively while focusing on profitability, sustainability, and growth.
1. “The Lean Farm: How to Minimize Waste, Increase Efficiency, and Maximize Value and Profits with Less Work” by Ben Hartman
• Why Read It? This book teaches small farmers how to apply lean manufacturing principles to farming. It focuses on minimizing waste, improving efficiency, and boosting profitability, all while maintaining sustainability.
• Key Takeaway: Learn how to streamline operations, reduce unnecessary labor, and make your farm a more productive and enjoyable place to work.
2. “You Can Farm: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Start and Succeed in a Farming Enterprise” by Joel Salatin
• Why Read It? This book is a practical guide for aspiring small-scale farmers. Joel Salatin combines entrepreneurial advice with sustainable farming practices, helping farmers turn their passion into a profitable business.
• Key Takeaway: Discover ways to start and manage a thriving farming business with limited capital, focusing on innovative, low-cost solutions.
3. “The Organic Farmer’s Business Handbook: A Complete Guide to Managing Finances, Crops, and Staff—and Making a Profit” by Richard Wiswall
• Why Read It? This book focuses on the business side of farming, providing insights on financial planning, record-keeping, and marketing strategies tailored for small organic farms.
• Key Takeaway: Understand how to effectively manage your farm as a business, with tools and strategies to maximize profitability and sustainability.
These books offer practical, actionable advice and will empower you to run your farm more effectively while focusing on profitability, sustainability, and growth.
Once you’ve purchased land, take these five essential steps:
1. Assess the Land: Test soil fertility, check water availability, and conduct a land survey to understand its potential.
2. Plan Land Use: Decide on activities (e.g., crops, livestock), map zones, and include conservation measures.
3. Obtain Permits: Ensure compliance with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and register the property if required.
4. Prepare the Land: Clear debris, set up infrastructure (fencing, roads, irrigation), and install utilities.
5. Develop an Operational Plan: Choose crops or livestock, create a budget, and plan production schedules. These steps will position you for a successful agricultural venture.
1. Assess the Land: Test soil fertility, check water availability, and conduct a land survey to understand its potential.
2. Plan Land Use: Decide on activities (e.g., crops, livestock), map zones, and include conservation measures.
3. Obtain Permits: Ensure compliance with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and register the property if required.
4. Prepare the Land: Clear debris, set up infrastructure (fencing, roads, irrigation), and install utilities.
5. Develop an Operational Plan: Choose crops or livestock, create a budget, and plan production schedules. These steps will position you for a successful agricultural venture.
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1. Wyoming • Tax Advantages: Wyoming has no state income tax, which can be beneficial for farm income. Additionally, the state offers low property taxes and does not impose a corporate income tax. • Business-Friendly Environment: Wyoming is known for its low fees and strong privacy protections for business owners. Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wyoming is straightforward, with an initial registration fee of $100.
2. Delaware • Legal Protections: Delaware provides robust legal protections and a well-established legal system favorable to businesses. • Tax Benefits: While Delaware imposes a franchise tax, it does not levy a state income tax on LLCs that do not operate within the state.
3. New Mexico • Low Fees: New Mexico offers one of the lowest LLC formation fees at $50. • Privacy: The state does not require the disclosure of LLC members’ names in public records, providing a degree of anonymity.
4. Texas • Agricultural Exemptions: Texas provides property tax exemptions for agricultural land, which can significantly reduce operating costs. • No State Income Tax: The absence of a state income tax makes it financially attractive for farm owners.
5. Tennessee • Tax Exemptions for Family Farms: Tennessee offers specific tax exemptions for family-owned farms, potentially exempting them from franchise and excise taxes if certain criteria are met. Key Considerations: • Foreign Ownership Restrictions: Some states have laws restricting foreign ownership of agricultural land.
For instance, states like Iowa and Minnesota have specific limitations. • Property Tax Assessments: Many states offer differential or “current use” assessments for agricultural land, taxing it based on its agricultural value rather than market value, which can lower property taxes.
1. Wyoming • Tax Advantages: Wyoming has no state income tax, which can be beneficial for farm income. Additionally, the state offers low property taxes and does not impose a corporate income tax. • Business-Friendly Environment: Wyoming is known for its low fees and strong privacy protections for business owners. Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wyoming is straightforward, with an initial registration fee of $100.
2. Delaware • Legal Protections: Delaware provides robust legal protections and a well-established legal system favorable to businesses. • Tax Benefits: While Delaware imposes a franchise tax, it does not levy a state income tax on LLCs that do not operate within the state.
3. New Mexico • Low Fees: New Mexico offers one of the lowest LLC formation fees at $50. • Privacy: The state does not require the disclosure of LLC members’ names in public records, providing a degree of anonymity.
4. Texas • Agricultural Exemptions: Texas provides property tax exemptions for agricultural land, which can significantly reduce operating costs. • No State Income Tax: The absence of a state income tax makes it financially attractive for farm owners.
5. Tennessee • Tax Exemptions for Family Farms: Tennessee offers specific tax exemptions for family-owned farms, potentially exempting them from franchise and excise taxes if certain criteria are met. Key Considerations: • Foreign Ownership Restrictions: Some states have laws restricting foreign ownership of agricultural land.
For instance, states like Iowa and Minnesota have specific limitations. • Property Tax Assessments: Many states offer differential or “current use” assessments for agricultural land, taxing it based on its agricultural value rather than market value, which can lower property taxes.
I gues its time to level up! Thanks Everyone! Stay along for the journey I want to show you guys whats possible!
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Here’s a breakdown of where you can obtain an LLC, EIN, and trust for free or at minimal cost:
1. Forming an LLC for Free While forming an LLC often incurs state filing fees, some platforms make the process affordable by only charging for state-required costs.
Websites: • Incfile: • Free LLC formation (you only pay the state filing fees). • Offers tools to manage your business after formation. • ZenBusiness: • Free LLC option with basic filing services; state fees still apply. • Affordable plans for added features like operating agreements. • LegalZoom: • Not free, but competitive and includes ongoing compliance reminders. Steps: • Choose your state and file the Articles of Organization. • Pay the state’s mandatory filing fee (varies by state).
2. Getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number) An EIN is issued free of charge directly by the IRS.
Website: • IRS EIN Application: • 100% free application process. • Instant EIN issuance upon completing the online form. Steps: • Go to the IRS website. • Select “Apply for EIN online.” • Complete the form (you must have a valid Social Security Number or ITIN).
3. Setting Up a Trust Creating a trust typically involves legal work, but you can create basic trusts for free or at low cost using online tools.
Websites: • FreeWill: • Free platform for creating simple living trusts. • Focuses on estate planning and charity bequests. • Do Your Own Will: • Free trust creation templates for revocable living trusts. • Rocket Lawyer: • Offers a free trial that includes trust creation tools. • Subscription required for continued access. Steps: • Decide on the type of trust (e.g., revocable living trust). • Use the online form to enter details about the trustor, trustee, and beneficiaries. • Print and notarize your trust document (if required by your state).
Here’s a breakdown of where you can obtain an LLC, EIN, and trust for free or at minimal cost:
1. Forming an LLC for Free While forming an LLC often incurs state filing fees, some platforms make the process affordable by only charging for state-required costs.
Websites: • Incfile: • Free LLC formation (you only pay the state filing fees). • Offers tools to manage your business after formation. • ZenBusiness: • Free LLC option with basic filing services; state fees still apply. • Affordable plans for added features like operating agreements. • LegalZoom: • Not free, but competitive and includes ongoing compliance reminders. Steps: • Choose your state and file the Articles of Organization. • Pay the state’s mandatory filing fee (varies by state).
2. Getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number) An EIN is issued free of charge directly by the IRS.
Website: • IRS EIN Application: • 100% free application process. • Instant EIN issuance upon completing the online form. Steps: • Go to the IRS website. • Select “Apply for EIN online.” • Complete the form (you must have a valid Social Security Number or ITIN).
3. Setting Up a Trust Creating a trust typically involves legal work, but you can create basic trusts for free or at low cost using online tools.
Websites: • FreeWill: • Free platform for creating simple living trusts. • Focuses on estate planning and charity bequests. • Do Your Own Will: • Free trust creation templates for revocable living trusts. • Rocket Lawyer: • Offers a free trial that includes trust creation tools. • Subscription required for continued access. Steps: • Decide on the type of trust (e.g., revocable living trust). • Use the online form to enter details about the trustor, trustee, and beneficiaries. • Print and notarize your trust document (if required by your state).
Heres what you need to know!
Texas: Agricultural Loan Guarantee Program helps with financing for farmland acquisition.
Connecticut: Farmland Preservation Program protects land through purchase of development rights.
New Jersey: Agricultural Retention and Development Act buys easements to keep farmland agricultural.
Georgia: Land Conservation Program offers grants and loans for land preservation.
Minnesota: Down Payment Assistance Grant provides up to $15,000 for new farmers buying land.
California: Williamson Act provides tax relief for preserving farmland.
Maryland: Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation buys development rights to protect farmland.
Virginia: Office of Farmland Preservation provides matching funds for farmland conservation.
Florida: Rural and Family Lands Protection Program funds easements for farmland conservation.
Oklahoma: Agricultural Enhancement and Diversification Program offers grants or loans for farm expansion, including land acquisition.
Texas: Agricultural Loan Guarantee Program helps with financing for farmland acquisition.
Connecticut: Farmland Preservation Program protects land through purchase of development rights.
New Jersey: Agricultural Retention and Development Act buys easements to keep farmland agricultural.
Georgia: Land Conservation Program offers grants and loans for land preservation.
Minnesota: Down Payment Assistance Grant provides up to $15,000 for new farmers buying land.
California: Williamson Act provides tax relief for preserving farmland.
Maryland: Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation buys development rights to protect farmland.
Virginia: Office of Farmland Preservation provides matching funds for farmland conservation.
Florida: Rural and Family Lands Protection Program funds easements for farmland conservation.
Oklahoma: Agricultural Enhancement and Diversification Program offers grants or loans for farm expansion, including land acquisition.
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Now is the best time to sign up and apply for grants. Let me help! Use code “MILLZ50” to get 50% off on all Services!
I appreciate all my clients!
50% off on all services till 11/29!
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50% off on all services till 11/29!
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This is how you can get a farm! #greenscreen FYI! guys!!! #family #texas #loan #usda #grants #farming #farm #farmer #life
50% off on all services to help you do this!
Like, Comment, and Message me “FARM” to get a FREE business plan template! Use Coupon Code “MILLZ50”
Like, Comment, and Message me “FARM” to get a FREE business plan template! Use Coupon Code “MILLZ50”
How to find discounted land! Also guys I am having a 50% off Black Friday sale on all Services! Use Code “MILLZ50”
Don’t make these mistakes as a small farmer!
1. Starting Too Big The Mistake: Many new farmers overestimate their capacity and resources, investing in too much land, too many crops, or too many animals right away. Why It’s a Problem: Larger operations require more time, money, and labor. Beginners can quickly become overwhelmed and face financial strain if they cannot manage or sell their products effectively. Solution: Start small and focus on a few manageable crops or livestock. Expand gradually as you gain experience and understand your market.
2. Neglecting Financial Planning The Mistake: Beginners often underestimate costs or fail to plan for fluctuating income and unexpected expenses (equipment repairs, pest infestations, bad weather). Why It’s a Problem: Without a clear budget or financial cushion, farmers may struggle to stay afloat, especially during their first few years. Solution: Create a detailed budget covering startup costs, operating expenses, and emergency funds. Regularly update financial records and explore grants or low-interest loans.
3. Ignoring Soil Health and Farm Planning The Mistake: New farmers sometimes overlook the importance of soil testing, crop rotation, and planning for water management or pest control. Why It’s a Problem: Poor soil or improper land use leads to reduced yields, wasted effort, and higher costs for fertilizers or pest control. Solution: Conduct soil tests before planting. Use sustainable practices like crop rotation, composting, and mulching to maintain soil fertility and prevent issues.
1. Starting Too Big The Mistake: Many new farmers overestimate their capacity and resources, investing in too much land, too many crops, or too many animals right away. Why It’s a Problem: Larger operations require more time, money, and labor. Beginners can quickly become overwhelmed and face financial strain if they cannot manage or sell their products effectively. Solution: Start small and focus on a few manageable crops or livestock. Expand gradually as you gain experience and understand your market.
2. Neglecting Financial Planning The Mistake: Beginners often underestimate costs or fail to plan for fluctuating income and unexpected expenses (equipment repairs, pest infestations, bad weather). Why It’s a Problem: Without a clear budget or financial cushion, farmers may struggle to stay afloat, especially during their first few years. Solution: Create a detailed budget covering startup costs, operating expenses, and emergency funds. Regularly update financial records and explore grants or low-interest loans.
3. Ignoring Soil Health and Farm Planning The Mistake: New farmers sometimes overlook the importance of soil testing, crop rotation, and planning for water management or pest control. Why It’s a Problem: Poor soil or improper land use leads to reduced yields, wasted effort, and higher costs for fertilizers or pest control. Solution: Conduct soil tests before planting. Use sustainable practices like crop rotation, composting, and mulching to maintain soil fertility and prevent issues.
Mineral Rights and Water Rights! Here is what you need to know!
You can be a small farmer. We are needed not just for food but for the value we create as a community.
15 Steps you need to take before starting a small farm.
You can Own A Farm! Here’s How! #farm #usda #loan #grants #help #texas #farming #ranch #agriculture #cattle #family
Is Investing In the Crypto Market Worth it as a Small Farmer!
Adding a pond to your farm can bring multiple benefits, such as water storage for irrigation, livestock watering, aquaculture opportunities, and even soil moisture control for nearby crops. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started with creating a pond on your farm!
Here are some tips to on developing your land for a small farm!
1. Soil Testing: Start by assessing soil quality for ideal crop and pasture planning.
2. Efficient Design: Organize layout to reduce travel time and maximize space.
3. Zoning & Permits: Check local regulations and obtain necessary permits early.
4. Water Management: Set up rainwater harvesting, drainage, and irrigation systems.
5. Rotational Grazing: Divide pastures to prevent overgrazing and maintain soil health.
6. Diverse Production: Grow a variety of crops or livestock for income stability.
7. Essential Infrastructure: Prioritize fencing, barns, and storage buildings.
8. Permaculture: Design a self-sustaining system integrating crops, animals, and water.
9. Plan for Growth: Leave room for future expansion as your business grows.
10. Use Technology: Track schedules and farm activities with management tools.
11. Soil Health: Use crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting to enrich soil.
12. Market Research: Grow products in demand locally for better sales opportunities.
These steps emphasize efficiency, sustainability, and strategic planning.
1. Soil Testing: Start by assessing soil quality for ideal crop and pasture planning.
2. Efficient Design: Organize layout to reduce travel time and maximize space.
3. Zoning & Permits: Check local regulations and obtain necessary permits early.
4. Water Management: Set up rainwater harvesting, drainage, and irrigation systems.
5. Rotational Grazing: Divide pastures to prevent overgrazing and maintain soil health.
6. Diverse Production: Grow a variety of crops or livestock for income stability.
7. Essential Infrastructure: Prioritize fencing, barns, and storage buildings.
8. Permaculture: Design a self-sustaining system integrating crops, animals, and water.
9. Plan for Growth: Leave room for future expansion as your business grows.
10. Use Technology: Track schedules and farm activities with management tools.
11. Soil Health: Use crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting to enrich soil.
12. Market Research: Grow products in demand locally for better sales opportunities.
These steps emphasize efficiency, sustainability, and strategic planning.
How much land do you need for a small farm?
Here’s Everything That Biden-Harris have done for small Farmers
Here is what Donald Trump has done for small farmers!
Shhhh tell everyone! This how you afford land!
Here’s more information about Agritourism
Heres a few Startegies to create profitability on your farm!
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With the mentorship I was able to prepare a plan that got me my farm today. It makes me excited that I can one day give this to my grand children! Farmer Millz showed me how to prepare for a farm and helped me afterward too!!
THE STORY OF NORMA'S BASKET
Norma's Basket Farm Agricultural Agency is poised to revolutionize the agricultural industry, offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to empower farmers, enhance sustainability, and drive success. Led by Farmer Millz, our team of seasoned experts is dedicated to providing tailored solutions that encompass farm management, strategic consulting, sustainable practices implementation, and educational initiatives. By fostering a holistic approach to agriculture, we aim to create a resilient and thriving community of farmers. Our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and continuous learning sets us apart as a valuable partner in the modern farming landscape.
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