If you've read The Omnivore's Dilemma or watched Food Inc. then the name Joel Salatin will certainly ring a bell. The Virginia farmer is a great proponent of organic practices and is THE man to talk to about sustainable farming.
In a recent interview with Modern Farmer Salatin offered great advice for people interested in getting their hands dirty with farming. His number one piece of advice? To stay local.
"Farm where you have relationships and a reputation. It’s a lot easier getting started in a community that knows you—where you shop for groceries, pay your bills, and belong to a civic club. Even if the land is more expensive, it pays off."
Salatin also shared his thoughts on how much capital you need to start a farm (be prepared to "cut living expenses to the bone") and which animals are the easiest and most profitable ones to start with.
If farming is your passion head on over to Modern Farmer to read his full interview and swing by Salatin's website for more resources.
More on Farming
In recent years, interest in farming has skyrocketed as more consumers become interested in where their food comes from. We've seen farms on rooftops (pictured below) and even airports but we are sure that is just the tip of the iceberg. Read about some of the latest sustainable farming trends that are reshaping agriculture and what chefs think about the farm-to-table movement.