Entrance and persistence in alternative agriculture: an American case study

Social movements have inspired a new generation of Americans to take up farming. The agri-food movement has created alternative food networks to promote organic or ecological farming practices and support the viability of family farms. However, a study of beginning organic farmers suggests that they rely on non-farm wealth and outside income to stay in business. Experienced farmers face significant barriers to adopting organic practices and a high turnover rate. I investigate how new agrarians enter alternative agriculture, and what kinds of factors explain their persistence in the face of daunting macro-economic trends. I draw on early rural sociological theory about agricultural ladders, combining this conceptual tool with recent work on the agri-food movement. I consider the role of participation in grassroots agri-food organizations, subsidies from non-farm income, inherited land, and the higher prices that come from direct marketing. I use a case study of small-scale, organic farmers in southern Ohio, many of whom participate in a regional organization for organic farmers. My study finds that the common characterization of farmers as either first-generation farmers with no prior background in agriculture or experienced farmers who “go organic” needs revising. This study highlights what I call returning farmers: people with a family connection to farming who pursued nonfarm careers but found new opportunities and inspiration to re-enter agriculture later in life. I develop a typology of three pathways into alternative agriculture: nontraditional first-generation "greenhorn" farmers who are inspired by the food movement to enter agriculture, “returning farmers” who have a family history of farming but pursued non-farm careers before returning to agriculture, and “legacy” farmers with family land who have decided to practice alternative agriculture. Greenhorns and returning farmers use nonfarm capital to establish small-scale, diverse specialty crop and livestock farms. Because of the obstacles they face, many develop nontraditional revenue strategies to support their farms, and continue relying on non-farm income or wealth. In contrast, the Organic Valley Coop and market demand for certified organic grain and dairy products have created opportunities for legacy farmers to transition into organics and work as full-time farmers, thus meeting the movement’s ideals.Ph.D.Includes bibliographical referencesby Analena Bruc