SURVIVAL STRATEGIES OF SUCCESSFUL BLACK FARMERS

Structural change in U.S. agriculture has resulted in a decline in far m numbers, increases in farm size, and the dominance of large-scale pr oducers. Although the number of black-operated farms has fallen consid erably since the 1950s, a small group of these farmers operate success ful farms. A selected group of black farmers in Louisiana was surveyed to determine their strategies for success. The results indicate that success is directly related to (a) good management practices, (b) know ledge and early adoption of new technology, (c) strong work ethics, (d ) love of farming, (e) size of operation, (f) participation in governm ent programs, and (g) strong family support.