Support Family Farms
Why supporting family farms and hobby farmers matters — and how to do it on Ranch Route
The State of Family Farming in America
The United States has lost more than 5 million farms since the 1930s. Today, fewer than 2% of Americans live on farms. The concentration of agricultural production into large industrial operations has squeezed small family farms out of markets, making it increasingly difficult for independent farmers to earn a living wage from the land.
And yet, the desire to support small farms has never been stronger. Consumers are increasingly aware of where their food comes from and actively seeking out family farms, hobby farmers, and independent producers to support with their purchasing decisions.
What is a Family Farm?
The USDA defines a family farm as any farm where the majority of the business is owned by an operator and their family. Family farms range from small hobby farms on a few acres to multi-generation cattle ranches spanning thousands of acres. What they share is family ownership, personal care, and a connection to the land that corporate agriculture simply cannot replicate.
What is a Hobby Farm?
A hobby farm is a small-scale farming operation — often less than 50 acres — where the owners grow food, raise animals, or produce goods primarily for personal use or direct local sale rather than commercial wholesale. Hobby farmers represent a growing segment of food producers: people who left urban careers to raise their own animals, grow vegetables, keep bees, or produce artisan goods. Their products are often among the freshest, most carefully tended food available.
How Ranch Route Supports Family Farms
Ranch Route was built specifically to connect family farms, ranches, and hobby farmers directly with consumers who want to support them. Our platform provides:
- The Ranch Route Exchange — a marketplace where small-scale and hobby farmers can list products and connect with local buyers
- Certified Producer Profiles — full storefronts for established farms and ranches with nationwide reach
- No middlemen — buyers and sellers connect directly, meaning more money goes to the farm
- Storytelling tools — farms can share their story, practices, and values so consumers can make informed choices
Shop from Family Farms on Ranch Route
Every purchase on Ranch Route goes directly to an independent farmer or rancher.