Farming systems research: flexible diversification of a small family farm in southeast Michigan

摘要

In an era where the dominant implicit farming policy has been "get big or get out" Titus Farms provides an exemplar to the contrary. This paper explains the success story behind a medium-sized 145-acre fruit and vegetable family farm in southeast Michigan. Using agroecosystems analysis, this case study demonstrates a rigor and holism essential to farming systems research and analysis. In-depth interviews with the principal farm manager and owner were conducted during the fall and winter of 1999. Data, presented in the form of vignettes. provide context and ascribe meaning to the rich and imaginative voice of the small family farmer. It is concluded that this success is directly attributed to the concept of flexible diversification. It is through flexible diversification that Titus Farms has imbued stability and sustainability seldom seen by similar family farms of this type, and for that reason alone, Titus Farms is a successful enterprize. As such, it presents a unique case study and opportunityfor farming systems research analysis.