How to start a farm: A farmer’s path from vision to reality

How do you start a farm in Canada?

Mentorship, strategic planning and a collaborative mindset can help turn an unconventional start into a successful farm. Canadian farmer Roger Lobb shares how curiosity, clear direction and lifelong learning helped him build a forward-looking operation.

Find mentors who can support your farm’s growth

I started farming in 2008 while working full time as a pastor. I bought a quarter-section near town and learned from a retired farmer who became my mentor. Because I was still working full-time, he shared his knowledge and did much of the early work on the land. Over the years, I bought equipment and added land. When I retired from ministry in 2016, I was able to focus on farming. Purchasing irrigated land has become the turning point for growth.

Today, Sand Box Farms includes about 2,500 acres of irrigated land, with a focus on timothy hay for export. We also have an organic division that serves a niche market with strong returns. We recently formed a joint venture with two other farms to produce organic potatoes and hemp—two crops that generate strong revenue for the organic side of the business.

Build relationships and think like an entrepreneur

Mindset was critical for me. A big part of it is how you view your neighbours: as competitors or collaborators. I saw both models around me. One important early relationship was with a neighbour who openly shared what he learned, including rotation tips and which crops performed well. When I thanked him, he said, “Make sure it goes both ways, otherwise it stops.” That shaped me. I surround myself with people who are willing to share. Instead of competing with our neighbours, we compete together.

I call myself an entrepreneur. I’m always seeking opportunities, exploring new markets and finding ways to create more value from the land. I enjoy innovating, developing new approaches and pursuing business ideas.

Create a farm business plan and track your progress

A solid farm business plan helps me manage risk while pursuing growth. When I started farming, I wrote down the basics: expected yield, costs and returns for each crop. I still run the numbers every year. If an option won’t make money, I look for another one. You can’t understand risk until you know your cost of production.