Most people think that dairy farming is romantic and noble. Everything seems to be really easy but the truth is there is so much work that you have to do. Many that buy dairy farms do not expect all the work that is ahead of them. This is why every single part of the process has to be carefully considered. You need to go through long research before you consider dairy farms for sale.
To make things as simple as possible, here are some really important things that you have to take into consideration whenever you buy any dairy farm.
Zoning
It is really important that you are familiar with the local zoning ordinances. For agricultural purposes, the zoning laws include different livestock rules besides cows. All these come in handy as you expand the farm in the future. Besides agricultural uses, A-1 zoning will often allow for cemeteries, municipal buildings and churches.
The zoning regulations can easily vary a lot from one town to the next. As you buy an operation that is already working, you tend to think that it is completely compliant. Do not think this is the case as it might not be the case. As an example, a dairy farm that was fully lawful as it was opened might now not respect modern laws.
Price
You need to think about price when you buy a dairy farm. This is completely normal. Price per land acre will vary from one state to the next. For instance, in the US, the top dairy-producing regions, Wisconsin and California, features average costs for farmland of $4,000 and $7,000 per acre. Farms that are listed for sale right now can cost up to millions of dollars. The real estate agent is usually the one that negotiates prices so you might want to get one that is highly experienced.
Climate
The climate conditions automatically dictate the structures needed by the cows. In colder climates or regions that have 4 seasons, barn structures are mandatory to feed and house cows. Finding good pole barn insulation is something that will have a big impact on your saving in the long run. Ventilation systems are needed for the summer. Also, in dry, warm areas, outdoor corrals might be needed. Based on climate, you need to see if the dairy farm you consider buying features the appropriate structures or you will need to erect them after purchase.
Water
A lot of water is needed for a dairy farm. It is needed for milk production, animal consumption, irrigation if crops are also raised and cleaning, among many others. The water source of the dairy farm needs to be checked. Maybe it is a stream or a pond. Sometimes dairy funds just use wells. This quickly changes production costs you might expect.
Manure
Last but not least a large dairy farm can even produce over 100 pounds of manure on a daily basis. Manure management practices are always necessary. In fact, the law forces dairy farmers to keep records.
You have to look at how animal manure is taken care of. Is it recycled or maybe you are the one that wants to recycle it? All these have an impact on your final choice.
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