Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 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.
Related terms
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.