The Lean Micro-Farm: How to Get Small, Embrace Local , Live Better, and Work Less

by Ben Hartman, 272 pages, 7x10, softcover. I have spent a majority of my career working to optimize processes and eliminate waste by applying Lean principles in factories that produced everything from school bells to fire alarms, textile machines to custom yachts. Hartman’s book intrigued me with its promise to apply the same Lean principles I was taught in large-scale manufacturing operations to the realm of micro-scale agriculture. Not going to lie: when I first read the title I was skeptical, but I found this book to be a refreshing and insightful read. In a world where urbanization and limited space are becoming increasingly prevalent, this book is a timely and valuable resource. It offers a road map for those interested in growing their own food sustainably, even when space is at a premium. Hartman provides readers with actionable advice on planning, resource management, and waste reduction, all crucial for achieving success in a small farming operation. His discussions on soil health, crop selection, and season extension were straightforward and informative, with real-world examples to illustrate his points. This book is an invaluable resource for those seeking to create abundance from even the smallest of spaces. Whether you’re an aspiring micro-farmer or a seasoned gardener, this book is sure to inspire and guide you toward a greener, more sustainable future. -AF