“The name of their business entity, however, was what was most intriguing. Stone Soup, LLC was the name that caught my eye. Their story speaks to several issues facing those who want to begin farming: namely, the high cost of acquiring land for those with farming dreams, and the legal and liability aspects of farm related businesses that most people don’t really consider.

Stone Soup, LLC as a name is a paradox. We do live in an age where Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farming is increasing all over the country as people want to know where their food comes from as they support their local farmers. The very way that CSA’s operate show an increased willingness of people to support each other, even financially, so that they can achieve mutual goals. This coincides with our increased awareness that we need to protect ourselves from those out there that would be all too happy to sue us if they thought they could take something from us.”

Interesting- I hadn’t thought of that before, though it is a very good point.  The article emphasized that farming is a business, not just a lifestyle, and must be carefully thought through.  The  story ends:

“If you want to farm, there are plenty of customers out there who want to support you in your goal. Just don’t forget to do your business planning along the way.”

Agreed!  We’ve been lucky enough to have good friends and advisors who have helped us in our business planning.  It’s not the sexy part of farming, but it sure is important, and we think that getting the business squared away– the lease, the LLC, the accounting, all that stuff– will make the farming aspect go more smoothly over the long run.   Anyways, thanks to Farm Stories!

• We have signed our farm lease! It’s the real deal now. Our lease runs for five years.
• Our business name is “Stone Soup, LLC.” This is partly because the farm is so darned rocky, and partly because of the fantastic fable, Stone Soup, in which a delicious meal is made due to everyone bringing a little of what they have to the table.
• We got the initial plowing done! Although the plow broke an axle due to the rocks, the plowing did indeed get finished. Pictures to come.
• Our CSA is filling up fast! We have 24 members already. We are hoping for 40-50, so be sure to get on the list if you want to join.

More updates and pictures soon.

• The lease is almost all done! After a number of back-and-forths between ourselves and the Ames family we are very close to having a completed lease. We’ll be leasing the land for five years, with the idea that it will be renewed into a longer term lease if everyone is happy after those first five years.
• We are working on forming an LLC, a Limited Liability Company. This will protect us personally from any legal liability that might come out of the business. Although the farm property itself will be called Langwater Farm, we need to pick a different name for our business entity (I know, it’s a little confusing). Currently naming the LLC is our biggest hurdle… any suggestions??
• Kevin bought a pickup truck! It’s green.
• Kate and Mary (Rory and Kevin’s mom) went and visited the farmhouse where Rory and Alida will be living. We’ll be leasing the farmhouse, which is on the property, along with the farm. Apparently the house has a wood stove, plenty of room for visitors, and a secret staircase! Couldn’t ask for more. Here’s a picture of the house.

So that’s what we’ve been up to. Needless to say, we’re getting very excited about the part where we stop worrying about LLCs and leases, and actually get to farm!

Stay tuned for more updates soon. In the meantime let us know if you have ideas for our business name.