How to Start a Farm Park 

 Luscher Farm as an Example

• Assemble a task force (or a group of experienced and/or interested individuals) for planning
  • Seek experienced and educated leaders, innovators, and agents of change
  • Determine and list talking points of benefits of a farm project and take action
  • Invite third party impartial facilitation for process support and record-keeping (volunteer or paid)
  • Gather public input for support and guidance
• Determine a mission – Why do you want a farm, what do you want to accomplish with a farm?
  • Agriculture/Viticulture/Livestock/Forestry
    • Does the preferred location indicate which type of farming or does the farming focus dictate the location?
    • Has the type of farming been done before on the selected property site?
    • Mixed use property considerations i.e. agricultural farming; community gardens; education center; livestock; botanical garden; heritage, historical and environment education; event and/or open space; trails and many more may appear as well. 
  • Financial Impact?
    • Size and scope of the farm operation
    • Budget and Management Practices
  • Education and Sustainability?
    • Determine where programming and land use falls in the mission
    • Planning for future generations
  • Create Community?
    • Throughout process, seek public support where possible
    • iNon-profit status – Friends of the Farm Group, other neighborhood or service oriented groups to assist?
• Identify property – list of considerations:
  • Land Use/Zoning  – any laws, restrictions, etc
  • Water rights and drainage
  • Sunlight and seasons
  • Soil quality and condition
  • Topography
    • Flat or sloped
    • Hillsides 
  • Natural resources
  • Facilities, Utilities, and Sanitary Services
  • Transportation, Accessibility, and Parking
  • Safety and Security Considerations
• Once property is identified, consider and/or research funding methods:
  • Public Bond Measure 
  • Public and/or Private Enterprise
  • Partnerships
    • Choosing partners that share your mission
    • Expectations
    • CONTRACTS
  • Programs
    • Determine value vs. impact
    • Audience Considerations
  • Sponsorships/Donations
  • Grant Opportunities
• Operations
  • Size of Envisioned Operation and Room for Expansion
  • Preparing for politics and differing opinions
  • Expect the Unexpected – Weather, Insects and Pests, Changing Partnerships
• Design Refinement
  • Expect that changes to the plan will happen
  • Have patience 
  • Stay focused