SO WHAT'S THE PLAN? Excerpts from the Horsedrawn Circle Letter

摘要

For the benefit of the new members joining the Horsedrawn Circle Letter in 2008, one of the scribes encouraged everyone to reintroduce themselves and describe their farm operations. At the same time, one of the new circlers asked the group how each farm family makes management priorities. The question generated a lot of discussion over three revolutions of the packet of letters around this circle of horse, ox and mulefarmers dedicated to pushing the envelope. The following excerpts describe a wide range of decision-making methods and how this process is influenced by broader questions of farm scale, diversification vs. specialization, and finding the critical balance between generating income and reducing inputs. The circle contributors also touch on the touchy subject of establishing leadership roles on the farm and delegating responsibility. Several scribes share their scheduling tools and record keeping systems. This casual conversation on decision making does not provide the detailed planning process that new farmers may need during the start-up years on the farm.