If you have an interest in farming then the next step is probably to set up your own dairy farm. The great thing about setting yourself up on a business like this is that you get to be your own boss – and keep the profits! However, what you should also be aware of is how hard it is to get set up in business and to keep a successful business going!
Organisation
The best piece of advice that can be given to you is not to rush things. You need to take things slowly and make sure you are organised at every step. Make sure you create a solid business plan so that you know what you need to do in order to make it work.
You’ll also need to think about the day to day running of the farm and how you are going to manage things.
Things you need to consider are:
- Manure management
- Herd health practices
- Feeding
- Breeding
- Calving
- Employing others to help you
- Weaning
- Crops
And so much more!
Money
You also need to consider how you are going to find the money to start up a business. If you’re buying an already equipped farm (buildings, equipment etc.) then you’ll need to raise the money to buy this. If not then you’ll need to think about how you are going to buy somewhere from scratch.
This is (again) where a solid business plan is essential . If you’re looking for investors and financial backers then you will need to prove to them that you have the plan in place to make money and that your potential business is worth them investing in.
The Workings of The Company
You’ll need to think about how you are actually going to make the company work. For example, who is going to buy the milk that you make? You also need to look into whether you need permits or permissions from the government/local councils before you are allowed to start trading.
You’ll need to think about equipment to do the milking and even store the milk when it is done – used storage tanks are fantastic for this!
Get To Work
Then you’ll need to start thinking about getting your cows, what breed you want and when to start milk production. There are different breeds of cow you are get, so it is a matter of you doing a little research into what is best for you and your needs.
Prepare For Hard Work
Any new business requires hard work to get it off of the ground, however when you take up something like dairy farming you have to be prepared for a much higher work load. Something like farming requires work 365 days a year, so you’ll have to work every day or sort out cover for when you are unable to work.
After that – you are ready to go! Just take things slowly and remember that you’ll have good and bad periods and after that, you are ready to get going and launch your dairy farm business properly.
