Farming full-time for income
Updated Jan 21, 2026
Seeking
- 101+ Total acres
- 51-100 Acres of pasture
Desired locations
Beginning farmer seeking pasture or farmland near Burnsville for Highland cattle operation. Long-term focused.
Plan
We are looking to launch a first-generation Highland cattle farm in the Burnsville area, focused on sustainable, pasture-based practices. Our operation will emphasize rotational grazing, land stewardship, and long-term viability. We're seeking 65–200 acres with suitable pasture and fencing. Open to purchase or lease-to-own, and committed to building a profitable, conservation-minded livestock business rooted in the local community.
Desired infrastructure
Equipment and infrastructure details
We’re seeking a property with essential livestock infrastructure in place or feasible to install.
Must-haves Solid perimeter fencing, and vehicle access for large trailers and deliveries.
Nice-to-haves include include reliable water access (well, spring, or creek), cross-fencing for rotational grazing, a basic barn or livestock shelter, working pens or a handling system, and existing hay storage. Equipment access for mowing or haymaking is also valuable.
Preferred type of opportunity
Opportunity details
We’re seeking a farmland purchase opportunity or a long-term lease with option to buy. Our goal is to build a permanent, conservation-focused Highland cattle operation, so we’re looking for a property that allows us to invest in long-term infrastructure and land stewardship. We’re open to flexible financing structures, including owner financing, but are ultimately focused on owning the land to support generational farm development and responsible land management.
Desired farming practices
Practices details
Our farm will follow regenerative practices focused on rotational grazing, pasture health, and long-term land stewardship. We’re committed to raising registered Highland cattle in a low-input, ecologically responsible system that supports soil health and animal welfare. While we don’t plan to certify organic, our methods will align with ecological principles, avoiding unnecessary chemicals and fostering biodiversity. Our goal is to build a sustainable farm that contributes to our local community and preserves the land for future generations.
Production goals
Goals details
Our primary focus is raising registered Highland cattle for specialty markets, including breeding stock, homestead companions, and premium beef. We’re building a rotational grazing system to support soil health, forage quality, and animal welfare. Ideally, the farm will produce its own hay and manage pastures with regenerative practices to reduce inputs and improve long-term productivity. Over time, we may integrate complementary species like sheep or poultry to diversify the system. Our goal is to create a profitable, conservation-focused livestock operation that contributes to the regional farm economy and preserves working farmland in Western North Carolina.
Farm experience
Years of experience
0 total years of experience
0 years employed as a worker (non-manager)
0 years as a manager
Education, training, and employment experience
Experience details
While I have no formal agricultural training, I bring extensive experience operating multi-million dollar businesses and startups, along with an MBA. My focus is now on purposeful stewardship; raising Highland cattle with care, restoring pastureland, and building a sustainable operation that contributes to the local community. I’m driven by a deep respect for animals, land, and long-term land preservation, and I’m committed to learning from experts and surrounding myself with experienced farm professionals as I launch this venture.