Compact Farms: 15 Proven Plans for Market Farms on 5 Acres or Less; Includes Detailed Farm Layouts for Productivity and Efficiency

"Volk pushes back against the "get big or get out" narrative, making a strong case for how smaller farms can, and do, contribute to our nation and planet's health and livelihood." -- The Huffington Post "A very nuts-and-bolts look at successful small farms, which every farmer regardless of skill level and experience will enjoy." -- Hobby Farms "With both the business analysis and schematics of these small agricultural operations, this book is truly "human-scaled." Josh Volk reveals that there is an alternative to the hype of get big or get out. This is a must read for anyone serious about making it work on a small plot of land." -- Richard McCarthy, Slow Food USA executive director "Here is a clear path for getting started in the most noble of all careers: growing food for your community. This is essential inspiration for anyone thinking of getting into farming or wanting to scale back a larger farm. Small really is beautiful!" -- Lynn Byczynski, publisher, Growing for Market "A trove of inspiration and practical advice for the next wave of young farmers. Even experienced farmers will glean new wisdom from the thoughtful tools and careful techniques in this book." -- Lindsey Lusher Shute, National Young Farmers Coalition executive director and co-founder "A huge proponent of small-scale agriculture, Oregon farmer Josh Volk outlines 15 case studies -- real-life operations on five acres or less -- that prove it's possible to make a living off very little land." -- Modern Farmer "If you're an aspiring small farmer -- or you just want to feel optimistic about the future of farming -- Compact Farms is one of those things to celebrate." -- SlowFoodUSA.org

Small Farms Work.

When it comes to farming, it turns out that small isn't only beautiful – small is also sustainable, manageable, and productive. Come along on a tour of 15 successful farms, from urban rooftops to rural retreats, all flourishing on five acres of land or less. Learn from veteran farmers like Eliot Coleman and a new generation of growers like Jean-Martin Fortier how small-scale farms can be profitable, fulfilling, and vital to their communities; then set your dreams on the right track with tips and resources for planning your own compact farm.