The Mott Group is working to create better market opportunities for small and mid-sized farms. These farms are rapidly disappearing, pushed out by economic forces and farm policies that favor big businesses. The 2002 Census of Agriculture shows that every category from 1 to 1,999 acres, and from $250 to $499,999 in annual sales, had fewer farms than five years ago. It is the farms in the middle – 50 to1,000 acres – that are most at risk; they are a special focus of the Mott Group and of a nation-wide “Ag of the Middle” task force.

Small farms are important to sustainable food systems because they utilize market channels that deliver fresh, healthy products and connect farmers with consumers, like farm stands, farmers markets and community supported agriculture. They produce specialty items not be available through mainstream channels.

Mid-sized family farms have been and continue to be the backbones of our food system and rural communities: growing our food, taking care of the environment, paying taxes, supporting local businesses, preserving beautiful landscapes. Many studies have shown a positive link between the number of small and mid-sized farms and healthy rural economies and communities. Farm families typically value ecological stewardship and social relations.

For the sake of our food security, as well our rural communities, it is vital that we all support our local small and mid-sized farms.

For More Information:

On the Web:

Statistics on farm disappearance

Why save the family farm?

The role of small farmers for food security

Agriculture of the middle Task Force (Why Worry about the Agriculture of the Middle?)