Leader: Dreams Into Reality

LEADER Volume 25 | Issue 1 | $3.95

Dreams INTO

REALITY Young, beginning and small farmers share how they started and how they continue to be successful.

Plus: How to Write a Farm Business Plan

In this issue

Leader

Farm and Land 4

Starting with a Sound Plan Embracing his family's agricultural ancestry, Keith Stauffer of Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania started a sheep farm.

6

A First Big Step with a Little Help Alex and Brooke Moore purchased a 173 acre farm in Barclay, Maryland and plan to add chicken houses.

8

A Fresh Venture with New Responsibilities Jacob Shriver of Emmitsburg, Maryland added a pole barn to store hay and a combine as he expands his corn, hay and soybean operation.

10

The Right Partner Helps Family Farm Thrive Since buying their farm in 2010, Josh and Amber Stephens of Quicksburg, Virginia, continue to grow their cattle, poultry and Boer goat farm.

Our

Association

12 2021 Calendar Photo Contest 12 Customer Appreciation Events 13 Community Education Program

Farm Finances 14 How to Write a

Farm Business Plan

Community 16 Property Listings

Cover photo by Andrea Haines 2 LEADER VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

Social Media facebook.com/MidAtlanticFarmCredit @midatfarmcredit @midatfarmcredit mafc.com/blog youtube.com/user/MidAtlanticFC

MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA Thomas H. Truitt, Jr., CEO MidAtlantic Farm Credit Board of Directors Jennifer L. Rhodes, Chairman Brian L. Boyd, Vice Chairman Paul D. Baumgardner Gary L. Grossnickle John Travis Hastings Laura M. Heilinger Walter C. Hopkins Anthony M. Ill T. Jeffery Jennings Fred R. Moore Michael S. Nelson Alan N. Siegfried Douglas D. Scott David R. Smith Joseph D. Snapp Fred N. West Charles M. Wright IV

Our second and fourth quarter issues will be digital only. To receive the Leader in your inbox, send an email to Katie Ward at kward@mafc.com.

questions or ideas

If you have any questions or ideas for the editorial staff of the Leader, contact Katie Ward at 888.339.3334, email her at kward@mafc.com or write her at MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 45 Aileron Court | Westminster, MD 21157. This publication is for you, our reader. We’d love to hear from you!

The Leader is published quarterly for stockholders, friends and business associates.

If you wish to no longer receive this publication, please email: unsubscribe@mafc.com. Use “Unsubscribe Leader” in the subject.

The Farm Credit Administration does not require the association to distribute its quarterly financial reports to shareholders. However, copies of its complete report are available upon request or see quarterly updates online at mafc.com. The shareholders’ investment in the association is materially affected by the financial condition and results of operations of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank and copies of its quarterly financial report are available upon request by writing: Susanne Caughman AgFirst Farm Credit Bank | P.O. Box 1499 | Columbia, SC 29202-1499 Address changes, questions or requests for the association’s quarterly financial report should be directed to MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA by calling 888.339.3334 or writing: MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 45 Aileron Court | Westminster, MD 21157

President's message

Entering the Field There’s a lot about my job I enjoy, but one thing I never tire of is hearing the unique stories of our members. Some span decades – centuries even, in some cases – while others only a year or two. But regardless of whether I’m talking to a customer in their 50s or one in their 20s, you start to hear common themes among them – a dream, determination, and a passion for what they do.

Farm Credit’s mission is to help all of agriculture, and we take that seriously. As the average age of today’s farmer continues to creep closer to 60, it’s crucial we not only support those who have made the industry what it is today, but to be there for those just entering the field with the hope of progressing it for future generations. The four customers featured in this issue of the Leader are stellar examples of this up and coming cohort of young producers.

Keith Stauffer of Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania can trace his family’s roots back to Switzerland, which is where he says his love of agriculture stems from. He started raising sheep in 2019, but his ultimate goal is to expand into an agritourism venture to create an interactive experience for the public.

Alex and Brooke Moore purchased a 173 acre farm in Queenstown, Maryland with the help of Farm Credit and Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation’s (MARBIDCO) Next Generation Farmland Acquisition Program. The young couple plan to build three poultry houses on the property to create a legacy they hope to pass down to their children.

EVENTS and REMINDERS March 5 Lancaster Farm and Home Center Foundation Banquet

Lancaster, PA

6 Maryland Cattlemen’s Annual Meeting

7-8 Washington County Homeshow

Frederick, MD Hagerstown, MD

10 VA Governor’s Conference on Agricultural Trade

Richmond, VA

11 VA Cooperative Councils Annual Meeting

Syria, VA

16 Crop Insurance Sales Deadline for Spring Crops 25 Farm Credit Poultry Seminar

Pittsville, MD

26 Annual Stockholder Meeting

Mount Joy, PA

April 1 Virginia Agritourism Conference

Red Dust Farm in Emmitsburg, Maryland is owned and operated by 23-year-old Jacob Shriver. Jacob’s a careful businessman, who credits much of his success to his family, friends, and savvy social media advertising skills.

Josh and Amber Stephens met at a livestock show in college. Today, they own Double S Farm in Quicksburg, Virginia where they continue to pursue their passion for cattle and raise their young family.

This issue also announces the dates of our 2020 customer events (page 12) and the Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement’s new Community Education Program, aimed at providing financial support to organizations and programs educating our communities about agriculture (page 13).

And, for all you budding entrepreneurs - don’t miss our article on page 14 on how to write a farm business plan, complete with a link to where you can download a template to help make the process even easier. We also have a code for you to get 50% off a QuickBooks subscription to help get you started on the right foot (back cover).

Wishing you all a happy and healthy spring,

Smithfield, VA

May

1 Crop Insurance Sales Deadline for Nursery

1 Farm Credit Employee Event

25 Memorial Day

Offices Closed Offices Closed

VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

LEADER 3

Feature Farm and Land

STARTING WITH A

sound plan Story and photos by Sally Scholle

Keith Stauffer’s reasons for raising sheep can be summed up in three words: demand, interest and location.

“First, the majority of U.S. lamb product comes from other countries. Second, we have a new generation of millennials who are actively looking for new and different protein,” says Keith. The third reason he lists is that his Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania farm is within an hour of the largest sheep and goat market in the nation. The growing consumer base within the eastern seaboard region places Keith in the ideal location for raising sheep.

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A

lthough Stauffer’s direct farm experience was limited prior to 2019, farming is part of his heritage. “Agriculture has been in my family for a thousand years,” he says, adding that his ancestry traces to Switzerland. “I’ve always had an attachment to the land.”

Once Stauffer decided to pursue raising sheep, he located a farm and started to explore financing. He looked at several options and spoke with both traditional and agricultural lenders. As he narrowed his financing options, Keith approached Farm Credit to discuss an operating loan and line of credit.

“I hadn’t addressed the mortgage because we were approved for a commercial loan on the property through a traditional bank,” says Keith. “When Farm Credit offered it as an option, we found the terms and service to be more favorable, so we structured all of our financing here.”

Keith worked with Farm Credit loan officer Kelsey Feeg to obtain an operating loan and line of credit, and learned the same lender would finance the farm property. “I had already developed a financial model using the sheep enterprise template from University of Maryland Extension,” says Keith, who has experience in project management. “I also used more traditional business forecasting tools, but I had a robust business plan and cash flow modeling for one, three, and five years.” As a first-time farm real estate purchaser, Keith qualified for Farm Credit’s young and beginning farmers program.

After finalizing the farm purchase in February 2019, Keith named the 124 acre property Roman Hills Ranch, LLC after his young son Roman. “I wanted to have the farm for him, and also for me,” says Keith. “I’ve expressed my entrepreneurial skills in a corporate setting, and now I want to do it for myself.”

Keith immediately started to educate himself about the business of raising sheep with the help of webinars, books and producers’ forums. He sought guidance from experienced producers and settled on Katahdin and Dorper sheep, both hair breeds, for their natural resistance to parasites and overall easy maintenance.

“As I was negotiating to buy some ewe lambs from a producer, I spent

“Agriculture has been in my family for a thousand years,” he says, adding that his ancestry traces to Switzerland. “I’ve always had an attachment to the land.” time on his farm,” says Keith, explaining how he established a relationship with a reputable breeder. “I made sure I got good quality lambs — I knew his health program and what he was feeding.” Keith plans to fine-tune his shepherding skills as he works with the same breeder during lambing season.

The first group of nearly 100 ewe lambs arrived just four months after Keith purchased the farm. Additional lambs arrived in groups, including some purebred Katahdins that he plans to maintain as a separate flock for future purebred lamb sales. Keith also has a group of fall-born ewe lambs that he hopes to continue breeding for off-season lambs that will bring a premium price.

Throughout the past year, Keith concentrated on building the flock and learning more about sheep. This winter, Keith is keeping sheep on both pasture and in an open shelter. Although he

currently has 12 acres for grazing, Keith’s plans for this spring include installing permanent fence and developing pastures for additional grazing.

As Keith continues to make improvements on the farm and work with his growing flock, he’s learning more about the business side of agriculture through Farm Credit’s AgBiz Master’s program. “It’s a twoyear program that connects young and potential farmers with an emphasis on bookkeeping,” explains Kelsey, adding that Keith is enthusiastic about the program. “It’s a good networking opportunity for younger producers.”

Keith continually draws on his business acumen to ensure his enterprise is financially stable, and carefully weighs options prior to making decisions.

“Tracking money well means tracking inputs,” he says. “I know how much and when I’m buying, and I can track

it through my financial software.”

In addition to building his flock and pursuing options for purebred lamb sales, Keith is already thinking about diversifying his farm. “I’d like to develop the farm as an agritourism destination and include activities such as farm stays, hayrides, pumpkin picking, and Christmas trees,” he says. “I also want to offer interaction with a variety of animals.”

Keith says one of the most rewarding aspects of his new endeavor is the relationships he’s built and conversations with other producers. “For me, that’s one of the most fulfilling parts of this,” he says. “It started as a spreadsheet and a dream, and I’m watching it grow.”

Check them out on Facebook and Instagram @RomanHillsRanch or visit RomanHillsRanch.com

VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

LEADER 5

Farm and Land

TAKING THEIR

First Big Step

WITH A LITTLE HELP Story and photos by Nancy L. Smith

“Without Farm Credit and MARBIDCO, none of this would have been possible,” says Alex Moore of Queenstown, Maryland, reflecting on his purchase of a 173 acre farm in Barclay, Maryland and his plan to build three chicken houses on the property.

6 LEADER VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

A

lex, 27, and his wife Brooke, 25, can own and operate their own farm at a young age thanks to the close partnership between Farm Credit and the Next Generation Farmland Acquisition Program operated by the Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation (MARBIDCO).

MARBIDCO is a quasi-public economic development organization chartered by the State of Maryland. The Next Generation program is designed to preserve farm and forest land for future generations. Its $2.5 million annual appropriation helps qualified young or beginning farmers who have trouble entering agriculture because of high farmland costs and lack of access to adequate financial capital.

Allison Roe, MARBIDCO financial program specialist, explains how the program works: “We buy an option-purchase contract that buys the borrower time to try and sell that permanent easement.

“When [the borrower] goes to sell the permanent easement, we are repaid. We terminate our contract and then that permanent easement is placed. We get repaid and [the borrower] keeps the difference.”

As part of the application process, the borrower meets with the county agricultural land preservation administrator before the land is purchased.

The county official completes part of the application certifying the eligibility of the land for a permanent easement.

Samantha Steele, The Moore’s loan officer at Farm Credit, says, “In most cases, MARBIDCO will help provide the down payment amount for 100 percent financing. The Moores, through MARBIDCO, were able to sell a 99 year development easement on the new farm.

“It allows them to have the funds for a down payment and helps bring the payments down and make it more affordable to start on your own,” Samantha explains.

The Moores feel they have been preparing for this next step for their entire lives. Brooke, who has worked with her father, Ralph Whaley, on the family farm in Queenstown, Maryland since she was 12, is on track to earn a business degree from Chesapeake College.

“Seeing the crops come up that were ours this year was exciting,” notes Alex. “We’re looking forward to growing our business.”

Alex started helping from a young age on a farm originally owned by his grandfather in Cordova, Maryland. The poultry and grain farm includes six poultry houses. He studied agricultural equipment maintenance at the University of Northwestern Ohio.

They will build three chicken houses on their new farm and grow organic, free-range birds for Coleman. The chicken houses are still on the drawing board, but the permits are in hand.

The couple hopes to have their first flock in place by late fall 2020.

“The chickens won’t be organic for three years. We will have non-organic birds until that part of the farm is considered organic,” Brooke says.

The MARBIDCO process is detailed.

The application alone runs to more than 40 pages. “It was definitely a long process,” says Brooke, “longer than we

expected. But they were easy to work with, and Farm Credit was there from start to finish to help the process go smoothly.”

Samantha agrees it is a lot of paperwork, but she has some advice for future applicants. “Be prepared. Know what you want. Be cooperative and patient. Do your research. Know your numbers.” She says Farm Credit shares much of the information collected from the borrower, so the applicant does not have to complete duplicate paperwork.

Because the process can be lengthy, borrowers need a seller who is not in a hurry to sell their farmland and who is willing to wait until all program requirements have been met.

“We were fortunate to be able to wait [to close the sale] until the funding came through,” says Alex. “They were in no rush to go to settlement which was very helpful,” agreed Brooke.

The future is bright for this young couple. Alex says his plan for the future is to “buy more land, till more land.”

Brook explains, “We’re using chickens as a way to grow. It’s something we want to pass on to our children.”

“Seeing the crops come up that were ours this year was exciting,” notes Alex. “We’re looking forward to growing our business.”

Brooke and Alex are committed to making a success of the Barclay, Maryland farm they are buying with the help of Farm Credit and MARBIDCO’s NextGen program. The NextGen program, which just began in fiscal year 2018, is open to anyone who wants to farm in Maryland. Applications are accepted monthly and are ranked against other applicants based on a points process outlined in the application. For more information, visit marbidco.org.

VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

LEADER 7

Feature Farm and Land

A fresh venture BRINGS IN

NEW RESPONSIBILITIES Story and photos by Andrea Haines

Jacob’s first purchase was a 50’ x 100’ pole barn for hay storage, and a CASE combine harvester. Today, he’s got his sights set on what it will take to keep him growing, and is thankful for the support he receives from his family, friends, and Farm Credit.

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S

ince the formation of America, people have been pining for a shot at the American dream, a reason and a way to start out on their own and provide for their futures. The newness of a job or the purchase of a farm is inviting for many people.

For Jacob Shriver of Emmitsburg, Maryland, the entrepreneurial drive stands true. The 23-year-old farmer set out to begin working under his own business name, Red Dust Farm, directly after high school. An agronomy devotee in the making, Jacob farms 250 acres of hay and 250 acres of corn and soybeans. “I am thankful for my family and friends as they help me with the field work,” shares Jacob. “Most of their time is dedicated to our family’s butcher shop, Shriver Meats, but they have been very influential in helping to maintain my business venture.”

One influence Jacob’s family plays is the guidance they provide, but with a “hands off” approach when it comes to him making his own decisions. “I am fortunate to be able to ask questions and listen to advice,” he says. “The final decision is mine, and the financial responsibility is mine, too, and very real.”

He contributes much of his clientele to word-of-mouth from a job well done and social media. “The use of social media (Facebook) has been a great tool for me,” he expresses. “I’ve discovered that advertising through the use of social media is less expensive and less time consuming. There’s been a huge interest in my services because I think it covers a wider range of people in my area.”

After Jacob began gaining more clients from the sale of hay and crops, he began to really consider what he would need to continue down the path of success. “I knew that once people caught on to what I was doing with my business, I needed to step up to the plate and become more forward-thinking by owning harvest equipment. Financially, this was a little out of my realm of control, so I decided to make a call to Farm Credit,” shares Jacob. He was directed to the Frederick office where he began working with loan officer Kelli Wilson.

Kelli began by gathering three years of income tax returns and then got to work on developing a business plan with Jacob. “The difference between working with a ‘young farmer’ or clients that are fresh into the business is the level of credit

“I knew that once people caught on to what I was doing with my business, I needed to step up to the plate and become more forward-thinking by owning harvest equipment." they bring to the table,” she explains.

“That’s pretty normal. I do have to obtain a level of assurance, so I like to sit down and generate a business plan from the ground up.” Jacob had been working on his business model since graduation, so he knew what tools he wanted to obtain first: a hay barn and combine harvester.

“Jacob is a hard working individual and takes time to evaluate his needs before making large decisions,” says Kelli. “He is meticulous about his next steps and patient, never overextending his ability to pay back his loan before purchasing additional equipment or supplies.” Jacob also grows beef cattle

and has generated a cushion to cover any unexpected costs that arise. Most of the cattle are raised and sold to the family butcher shop. “I was confident offering him a loan,” shares Kelli. “He understands the magnitude of his choices.” Jacob describes taking that initial leap as an opportunity to grow with nothing to lose. “I’m not going to lie, I was nervous.

It’s a big decision, and the responsibility to make this work lies with me.”

The decision to go through Farm Credit was a “no brainer” for Jacob. He describes the need for working with someone flexible, and also knowledgeable about agriculture. “I feel that Farm Credit

has the most up to date information on the agriculture industry,” he shares. “Ms. Kelli was easy to work with, and patient with me as well. It’s very clear that she wants me to succeed and believes in me.”

Jacob expresses that it is important to surround yourself with people you trust. “I would advise others looking to start or continue to farm by calling Ms. Kelli (Farm Credit),” he smiles. “I don’t know how I would have done this without their expert guidance.”

Follow Shriver Meats on Facebook @ShriverMeats1

VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

LEADER 9

Farm and Land

The Right Partner HELPS THE

STEPHENS’ FAMILY FARM THRIVE Story and photos by Susan Walker

The short version of how Josh and Amber Stephens met is that livestock brought them together. And today, livestock remains a big part of their story.

10 LEADER VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

J

osh, who was studying agricultural science at Virginia Tech, went to the National Block & Bridle Convention in Kansas City. Amber, who was earning her degree in agricultural education at North Carolina State University, also happened to be at the convention. During a lunch event, Josh and Amber began talking and realized they knew a lot of the same people and had a great deal in common. The spark was lit and a few days after Josh got back to school in Blacksburg, he drove to Raleigh, North Carolina to see Amber.

They married in 2010 and welcomed their daughter Clara in 2015, who will be joined by a new sibling this spring.

Livestock continues to be part of their story. They bought their eight acre farm, Double S Farm, in Quicksburg, Virginia, in 2010 and kept their first cows at Amber’s father’s farm in North Carolina as they added fences and made other improvements needed for cattle.

In 2017, they expanded the size of their operation, buying the 35 acre property across the road. When North Carolina was hit by drought one year later, they moved their herd to Quicksburg. Today, they have 50 head of cattle and calves on the farm, with a focus on replacement females and pure bred Red Angus bulls.

Josh and Amber also raise and sell market products, as well as ABGAregistered Boer goats to young people involved with 4-H and FFA. They currently have 15 breeding does and average 20 kids a year, which they consign through the Massanutten Boer Goat Bonanza and at the open barn sale they host on the farm.

“What’s great about the barn sale is that the youth have the chance to see where and how the goats are raised so they know they’re getting quality animals,” says Josh.

The Stephens’ most recent expansion of their operation is into poultry. They purchased a neighbor’s complete 13 acre poultry farm in 2018 and raise 400,000 small broiler chickens a year for integrator George’s Family Farms.

It was a decision they thought about carefully. Amber was teaching high school agricultural science and Josh managed an equipment company, a position he still holds. Family was one of the motivating factors behind their decision to purchase the poultry operation.

“After having Clara, each year it got

"We may be small compared to other farms in the area, but we focus on quality over quantity...” harder going back to work,” says Amber.

“If she was sick, I’d have to leave work to pick her up from daycare or preschool.

We were looking for a way that I could be working on the farm full time when the neighbor came by to see if we were interested in buying his poultry farm.”

Josh adds, “We weren’t in the market to buy another operation, but we ran the numbers and felt it would be cash flow positive. We made a pros and cons list, and the pros side was much longer, so we talked with Farm Credit about getting financing.”

Josh and Amber had first worked with Farm Credit when they took out a loan to finish their shop, build a barn, and

add a deck to their house, and knew the advantages the association offered. Matt Ritenour, regional lending manager with Farm Credit, says, “The loan officer came to me and explained that these were the right people and the right opportunity, so we worked with the Stephens’ to make it work. We have confidence in them because of how carefully and thoughtfully they approach their business.”

Josh and Amber agree that Farm Credit is the right partner for them.

“Farm Credit knows the business,” says Josh. “Having worked for an agricultural cooperative for eight years, I know the benefits a co-op like Farm Credit offers its members, like patronage and the fact

that we have a voice in decision making.”

“Their values are also in line with ours,” says Amber. “They support youth programs and give back to the community, which is important to us. It’s a good fit.”

Looking to the future, Josh and Amber don’t foresee big changes for their operation. “We may be small compared to other farms in the area, but we focus on quality over quantity in everything we do and we plan to keep doing that,” Amber adds.

Check out their Facebook page @DoubleSFarm

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LEADER 11

Our Association

GIVE US YOUR

best shot!

Send in your photo submissions to our 2021 Calendar Photo Contest.

Enter up to five photos for the chance to be featured in our 2021 calendar and other print publications by completing our online entry form.

Contest entry period is now through August 7, 2020. The top photos will be announced on September 28th on our Facebook page. If you submit a photo and it isn’t picked for the calendar, we may use it in something else, like an upcoming Leader magazine, annual report, or on social media!

Enter the contest, view entries, and read the official rules at mafc.com/info/calendar-photo-contest.

e h t ! r t i a a F u See Yo

2020 CUSTOMER EVENTS July 29

Delaware State Fair Harrington, DE

July 30

Lebanon County Fair Lebanon, PA

September 2

Shenandoah County Fair Woodstock, VA

September 22

In order to better serve our community and agricultural mission, we are changing the style of our annual stockholder meetings for 2020.

We are partnering with four regional fairs to offer our members and their families a day of fun on Farm Credit.

Look out for an invitation to the fair closest to your home later this year.

In the meantime, please visit mafc.com/appreciation or call 888.339.3334 for more information on our 2020 customer events!

The Great Frederick Fair Frederick, MD

Community Education Program W

e are proud to announce the Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement has created a Community Education Program to support agricultural education efforts within our 44 county footprint. The program will provide funding for projects and to organizations that make a positive impact in MidAtlantic Farm Credit’s territory.

Applications will be accepted in two periods:

PHASE ONE: Now – June 26th Decisions will be made by the Foundation Board on July 2nd with winner notification by July 15th.

PHASE TWO: July 1st – October 16th Decisions will be made by the Foundation Board on October 22nd with winner notification by October 31st.

Visit FCFoundationForAg.org to apply and see the program requirements, guidelines and restrictions.

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LEADER 13

Farm Finances

HOW TO WRITE A

Farm Business Plan Getting a loan for your agricultural business, no matter the size or scope, means asking the lender to have faith in your ability to manage a fullfledged operation and your finances in a healthy way.

No pressure, right?

T

he best way to set yourself up for success both in business and with your lender is to have a detailed plan. It doesn’t need to be pretty, but you do have to prove that you’re willing to put the time and effort into creating a well thought out

14 LEADER VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

course of action for your operation.

Already operating but don’t have a plan? That’s okay! It’s never too late to put extra thought into how your operation will continue to fulfill your livelihood.

What to Include in Your

Agricultural Business Plan TITLE/COVER PAGE Keep it simple on the cover page. The most important information here is accurate contact information so your lender can get in touch with you easily. Include mailing address, phone, email, and fax if you have it.

• Your company’s logo • Name of business, address, contact information

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Although it will be the first page of your plan, this will be the last section that you write summing up all of your key points in your plan. Remember that this is the first section that your lender will read, so they’ll expect to see all of the highlights that make approving this loan a good financial decision for both you and the lending organization. Include points about expansion plans, market opportunities, financial trends and projections in a short and easy to read summary.

INTRODUCTION Treat this section as if you’re telling a stranger about your operation and you want to give them an overview of what you do and what sets you apart from other businesses in your industry.

• Brief description of the operation including what you do, what you produce, how you market it, and the size of the operation.

• Locations and facilities • Mission Statement • Goals • Plan Summary and Capital Request – if you’re starting a new operation, include a plan summary that describes how you’ll start the operation and the course of action you’ll take to build it.

PRODUCTION • Products and/or services and their corresponding systems • Production practices, value-added practices • Policies on quality control, inventory management and customer service • Risk Management • Licenses, permits and regulatory requirements • Goals for production growth, expansion, etc.

MARKETING PLAN • Industry description, outlook, trends and projections • Target market information • Market share to gain • Pricing • Promotions, programs and marketing tools • Distribution

ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT • How your business is organized (corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, etc.)

• Names, titles, positions of owners, managers, directors, etc.

• Organizational chart or Personnel plan – who facilitates which roles and potential new hires • Benefits offered, rewards structure, etc.

• Contingency Plan

FINANCES

(Learn more at mafc.com/blog/analyzingfarm-financial-statements)

• Income earning potential, plans for growth, expansion, industry trends • Historical performance • Balance sheet, cash-basis income trend, breakeven analysis, and sensitivity analysis • Asset management • Benchmarks • Capital Request Creating your own business plan will take time and effort.

As you complete sections, send them to partners or colleagues to review as you go along. If you have any questions on how to complete your business plan or more specifically what loan officers are looking for, give us a call at 888.339.3334.

Want a FREE Business Plan Template?

Download your copy at mafc.com/services/beginning-farmers

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LEADER 15

Community Greenwood, Delaware

Adamstown, Maryland

Cambridge, Maryland

Bring your ATVs to this farm that is half tillable and half woods. Mature trees have value; development rights have not been sold. Ponds and trails throughout make this a great horse or activity farm.

Beautiful high ground setting overlooking the pond perfect for home site. Approximately 102 acres, pending final survey and subdivision. $999,900.

128 acre farm in Frederick County, 60 tillable acres, 64 wooded acres, four bedroom farmhouse, six stall horse barn with electric and water, run-in shed with tack room, equipment shed, over 4,000 feet of river frontage on the Monocacy, Subdivision rights in tact, Near Sugarloaf Mountain and Lilypons Water Gardens. $1,499,000.

Overlook the Choptank River and farm fields on this 121 acre property with a 6,000 sqft residence set back. Perfect for modern living and entertaining, with a huge barn (accommodates eight hunters) that sits at the front of the property giving the main house its privacy. Including two ponds and 3,700 feet of shoreline. $1,3250,000.

Contact Wes Cromer, Masten Realty LLC 302-448-1032, wcromer@mastenrealty.com

Contact Buzz Mackintosh, Mackintosh Inc. 301-748-3696, buzzmac@prodigy.net.

Contact Traci L. Jordan, Meredith Fine Properties 410-310-8606, tljordan520@gmail.com.

Cambridge, Maryland

Clarksburg, Maryland

Remarkable property consisting of two parcels; 75 acres east of Horns Point Road with 2000’ waterfront on Jenkins Creek, and 25 acres with frontage on Horns Point and Hudson Roads.

Approximately 70 acres farmland of high ground with tremendous potential for minor subdivision or waterfront estate farm. $1,950,000.

Check out this pan handle lot of trees and pasture with access to Clarksburg Road. Two lots being sold as a package. Current use as agricultural land. Each lot has an approved perc site. $275,000.

Contact Tom Ruch, Northrop Realty 443-235-1347, tomruch@northroprealty.com.

Contact Jeff Cosgrove, Re/Max Achievers 301-639-7181, jeff@askjeffc.com.

Cordova, Maryland

Luxury equestrian farm with attention to every detail: two tack rooms, two wash stalls, an office, indoor arena, dressage ring, sand ring, 14 paddocks with runin sheds, feed/hay storage, meeting room, pond, and washer/dryer/bathroom. Spacious home with wood floors, gas and wood fireplaces, master suite, and a large basement. $795,000.

Contact Karla Wieland-Cherry Meredith Fine Properties 410-310-8421, dkcherry4@aol.com.

Cordova, Maryland

Elkton, Maryland

Mt. Airy, Maryland

‘Triple Creek Winery’ consisting of a 20 acre parcel and a 6.2 acre perc approved contiguous building lot.

Currently six acres of grapes and a beautiful tasting room. The greenhouses will be removed prior to sale leaving a 1+ acre concrete pad site to be built on with half being heated concrete. $895,000.

Live your farm dream on this 50 acre property with fenced fields, a pond, and ten outbuildings. Bring your horses with the six stall barn, run-in shed, two machine sheds, 75’ x 40’ building, wood shop, hay barn, chicken coop, root cellar/canning house, pump house and more. The farmhouse has three bedrooms and two baths on two parcels. $849,900.

Calling all commuters! This three acre lot located in Carroll County is minutes to Interstate 70. The property has a 12 gpm well, 200 amp electric service, and perc approved septic. Hurry to this stunning, private lot and plan your dream home today! $225,000.

Contact Henner Gibbons-Neff Meredith Fine Properties 410-829-0698, hennerneff@yahoo.com.

16 LEADER VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

Contact Barbara Young, Harlan C. Williams Co. 410-287-2149, Barbara444Young@gmail.com.

Contact Ginger Phelps Keller Williams Realty Centre-Frederick 240-367-8051, ginger1331@kw.com.

Queen Anne, Maryland

Reisterstown, Maryland

Rocky Ridge, Maryland

Move your business here and get excellent exposure.

Tremendous frontage on Route 50 in Skipton.

Several buildings with large office areas, display areas, bay doors, loading docks, storage, yard storage, shops etc. Former farm tractor dealership could have many potential uses. $1,099,000.

Rare opportunity! This extensive 64 acre complex offers endless possibilities for a family compound, farm, or equestrian estate. Amenities include a three car garage, more than 25,000 square feet of living space, swimming pond, and multiple outbuildings. Potential for two additional building lots. $2,600,000.

Beautiful 203 acre farm not in conservation or preservation with breathtaking vistas in every direction. There are 25 wooded acres, two ponds, a stream and 167 acres of cropland. There is a 16’x60’ metal storage building. The all brick custom built home with 3,624 square feet has five bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms and a sunroom. $1,900,000.

Contact Tim Miller, Benson & Mangold 410-310-3553, tmiller@bensonandmangold.com

Contact Stephen J Ferrandi, Maryland Land Advisors 866-910-5263, stephen@marylandland.com.

Contact Gary Duckworth, RE/MAX Results 301-644-5968, gary@garyduckworth.com

Sharpsburg, Maryland

Since 1850, this privately-owned farm adjacent to Antietam National Battlefield has been a true gem of Washington County. 130 rolling acres of impeccable land. 3,000 feet of private Antietam Creek frontage.

Magnificent 3,744 sf home with high ceilings, country charm, and plenty of historic luxury. $1,299,000.

Contact Gary Geston 301-646-0046, ggestson@gmail.com.

Stevensville, Maryland

Protect Your Investment Hide away in this large, private wooded lot at the headwaters of Tanner Creek. Residential building site and access road already developed. Ideal for conservation/recreational minded buyer with easy access to Baltimore/Washington region. Golf course, marinas and airport nearby. One of a kind opportunity on Kent Island. $650,000.

Contact Jonathan Olsavsky Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty 410-490-0369, jonathan@watermanrealty.com.

We know that farming is a risky business. Crop insurance mitigates that risk and protects you from major loss.

Give us a call today to discuss your crop insurance options.

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VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

LEADER 17

Community Still Pond, Maryland

Own this unique home on 50 private acres just a few miles from the Chesapeake Bay in Kent County.

The property includes a 40’x60’ shop, a 54’x36’ horse barn, 22’x40’ in-ground oval swimming pool, 40 tillable acres, and a second kitchen in-law or rental. $999,950.

Contact Lona Sue Todd, Taylor Properties 410-310-0222, lstodd11@outlook.com.

Little Britain Township, Pennsylvania

Live inspired at Green Bank Farm. This historic country estate with two residences is 6,000 square feet on 36.7 acres in Lancaster Farmland Preservation Trust. Homestead stone federal with four to five bedrooms and a two bedroom guest house and nine garage spaces. 10 horse bays and more! Easy access to Routes 1 and 95, 272 and 222. $1,350,000.

Contact Sherry Merrill Lusk & Associates, Sotheby’s International Realty 717-475-0488, SherryMerrill@comcast.net.

Birdsnest, Virginia

Immaculately maintained farmhouse on a 53 acre farm on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Paved driveway leads you to the home nestled into a private setting surrounded by trees. Conscientious owners have taken great care of the home and it shows! Farmland is leased. $440,000.

Contact Ralph W. Dodd Ralph W. Dodd & Associates, LLC 757-678-5377, rwdodd@verizon.net.

18 LEADER VOLUME 25 | ISSUE 1

Sudlersville, Maryland

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Don’t miss this 218 acre productive farm with a large 3,400 sqft modern home built in 2004. A large shop and out buildings included. 85 percent tillable land with great hunting of deer, turkey and a pond for waterfowl. Ideally located in Queen Anne’s county with quick access to Route 301. $1,700,000.

Enjoy living in this gorgeous home with over 4,400 square feet of living space. The builder put 40 years of experience into this home and is ready to downsize. Old world craftsmanship, attention to detail and pride of ownership. Four Bedroom, four bathroom and expansion space in the lower level.

Two bay internal and three bay detached garage. $628,900.

Contact Jonathan Olsavsky Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty 410-490-0369, jonathan@watermanrealty.com.

Contact Michael Yingling RE/MAX Delta Group Inc. 717-652-8200, myingling@remax.net.

Upper Mt. Bethel, Pennsylvania

Bentonville, Virginia

A hilltop property offering spectacular views of the Delaware Water Gap and two residences. This 212 acre property has 135 acres in crops, hay and pasture, many barns and outbuildings, and two large ponds.

A 4,000 sqft farmhouse is currently used as an income-producing duplex. $1,700,000.

Build your dream home on this gorgeous 38 acre farm near the scenic village of Browntown. Road perimeter is surrounded by trees that open up to a beautiful pasture, historic stone wall and million dollar views of Shenandoah National Park and surrounding vistas. Property has five bedrooms and conventional perc. $499,900.

Contact Barbara Winn, Keller Williams Realty Group 484-547-3098, barbarawinn@kw.com.

Contact Martha Buracker, Weichert Realtors 540-671-6349, marthaburacker@gmail.com.

Front Royal, Virginia

Strasburg, Virginia

Incredible mountain views on 193 fenced acres with no HOA. The property has a passage creek running through and was previously used as cattle farm. $1,500,000.

Seclusion at its finest. This 124 acre farm near the town of Strasburg has easy access to Interstates 81 and 66. The farm contains a large pond and creek, along with outbuildings. Home is four bedrooms and two baths with solar panels and a diesel generator as back up. Detached two car garage next to the home.

Property is Being sold as-is. $795,000.

Contact Daryl Stout, Weichert Realtors 540-660-5538, daryl@teddystout.com.

Contact Butch Barnes, Sager Real Estate 540-974-1518, butch@sagerrealestate.com.

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LEADER 19

PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

45 Aileron Court Westminster, MD 21157

BALTIMORE, MD PERMIT 1908

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