Top 10 Things to Consider When Expanding Your
Farm Operation
Matt Nicol Sponsor Relations Account Executive
Nationwide
614-359-7342
[email protected]
Farmers and ranchers are innovative
businesspeople, not afraid to take risks.
Many operators are always thinking about
ways to increase revenues. Sometimes that
means expanding into areas that can include
commercial activities, like seed conditioning,
hauling other peoples’ grain, custom
spraying, even agritourism or a farm stand.
Nationwide, the #1 farm insurer in the
U.S., has compiled a list of the Top 10 things
farm and ranch operators should consider
whenever you have a discussion about
expanding your business. The bottom line:
It’s important to do your homework, and be
sure to contact your insurance agent.
1. Check federal, state and county laws
and ordinances
Check to see what building codes,
permits or licenses may be needed prior to
starting any new business or adding new
construction.
2. Environmental impact
Be a good land steward and consider
any impact your expansion could have on
the environment. Check with your local
Department of Natural Resources (DNR),
Department of Transportation (DOT) and
county engineers on how you can protect the
environment as you grow your operation.
3. Consider your neighbors
Will an expansion of your operation impact
your neighbors in any way? If you think the
10 West Virginia Farm Bureau News
answer to that question may be yes, consider
informing them early of your plans.
4. Increased traffic
Inviting the public onto your property brings
with it special liability concerns. You will need
to post signs to warn visitors of any potential
dangers. Are your premises ADA compliant?
Will you provide restroom or hand-washing
facilities?
5. Product safety
You may need to initiate proper controls
and safe handling programs for any product
you are processing or selling to prevent
property damage or bodily injury to others.
6. More employees
If the expanded operations will require
hiring additional employees, you may need to
provide training and safety materials. If the
additional employees increase your operation
to over 50, you will need to comply with
OSHA standards. Be sure you’ve obtained
adequate insurance to protect both your
employees and your operation.
7. Safety and security
Consider if you need to take additional
steps to protect your property or operation
from burglary, theft or other crimes.
8. Manage outside risks
Be sure to obtain signed contracts and
certificates of insurance for any expansion
operations that involve other businesses