For beginning farmers, land access may lie in being creative

This is a time of tremendous opportunity in farming and ranching for beginners looking to start a venture of their own. Alternative crops and high-value markets offer profit potential and lower risk for new farmers than do commodity crops commonly priced at break-even levels. But regardless of the crop or market, farming depends on land access.

If land ownership is the preferred route, funding will have to come from savings, bootstrapping, investors/partners, or loans. There are no grants, or free money, for farm startup and operation.

Many beginners find financing at the U.S. Department of Ag...