Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Definition
Family farms are agricultural operations that are owned and operated by a family or a small group of individuals. These farms rely on the labor and management of family members, rather than hired workers.
Subsistence farming: This term refers to farming practices where families grow crops and raise livestock primarily for their own consumption.
Agribusiness: Agribusiness refers to large-scale commercial farming operations that involve extensive mechanization, specialized equipment, and often employ hired workers.
Sustainable agriculture: Sustainable agriculture focuses on methods that maintain soil health, conserve resources, minimize environmental impact, and prioritize long-term productivity.