(OUTPUT) Project3 - Datafile
(OUTPUT) Project3 - Datafile
Proposal Plan
Background
The Munson’s have been raising crops and honeybees on their farm since the
mid-1800s. Twenty years ago, the family planted a few rows of sweet corn
alongside the road to see how the crop would yield. The few rows flourished
and produced more corn than expected. As a result, the family decided to put
a sign along the road and sell the extra corn to neighbors passing by the
farm. Eventually, other vegetables were added to the garden which
increased community interest. As the farm grew, the family decided to try
their luck at preserving. Soon, Munson’s was selling pickles and preserves prepared
from the fresh produce. These quickly became a fan favorite among
neighbors and
the community.
The Munson’s Pickles and Preserves Farm is now investigating new agricultural ventures
and expansion. Market research has begun based on current customer preferences
and discussions with other local producers. Current data shows that plant nurseries are
under- represented locally. (Hendon, n.d.) (Cornejo)
Proposal Overview
Munson’s would like to expand the farm to include flowers and plants. To be successful,
Munson’s will determine which flowers and plants are in the greatest demand and focus
on providing enough of these plants to fulfill customer needs. The farm will
explore popular flowers from around the world as well as plants that are native to the
area. To maximize profit, Munson’s is examining whether to build and manage a
greenhouse at their main farm in Edison, Washington, or outsource to farms across
various planting zones in the United States. A
Native Plants
Miniature Hollyhock
Alpine Strawberry
Broadleaf Lupine
Camassia
Tuft Hairgrass
Fireweed
Oregon Grapeholly
A
Specific calculations will be provided in the financial reports.
Shooting Star
Broadleaf Sedum
Goatsbeard
Greenhouse Option
Munson’s does not have additional farmland to dedicate to the expansion of building a
greenhouse. However, a parcel of land is available for purchase adjacent to their current
farm. The seller has offered a full purchase price offer, a lease purchase offer, or a
profit- sharing offer. If they choose to purchase the land, Munson’s will need to determine
the initial cost of building the greenhouse as well as the ongoing cost of
maintaining, operating, and staffing.
Outsourcing Option
To minimize the initial cost of expansion, Munson’s is considering outsourcing to various
farms in multiple planting zones. To fully consider this option, Munson’s needs to
determine the cost to lease the land and resources from the regional farms. In addition,
shipping costs will need to be calculated. The best outsourcing options for Munson’s are
listed below.
Zone 6
•Christmas Valley, Oregon
Zone 7
•Kennewick, Washington
Zone 8
•Edison, Washington
Zone 9
•Gold Beach, Oregon
The list consists of farms in close proximity to Munson’s farm to reduce shipping costs.
Additional regions will be explored if the opportunity arises.
Summary
Munson’s Pickles and Preserves Farm has established a respected, well-known
reputation throughout many locations in the United States of America. The passion for
providing excellent customer service coupled with their love of nature has provided the
farm with
the opportunity to expand their business.
1
For additional information on the Background of Munson’s Pickles and Preserves Farm please refer to
http://www.munsonspicklesandpreservesfarm.com
2
Information provided by Trey Research. Once the growing option is chosen the list will be updated.
Bibliography
Cornejo, J. (n.d.). Master Artist. Flowers and Plants. School of Fine Art, New York, New
York.