Operations begin at the start of construction, when the operator begins to learn how the facility is built. By the time construction is complete, the operator should have a good idea of how the system works.
The first 18 months of operations are experimental to:
- optimize operations for local conditions,
- familiarize the operator with one full year of operation
- experiment with different crops and livestock
The operational structure finalized only after the first 18 months of operations, so it is necessary to put a contingency in your capital budget for experimenting during this period.
Make sure your operators have access to good information about soil quality at different parts of the site, so they know the best productive areas and which areas require restoration.
The farmer/operator keeps a logbook which provides a record of maintenance, problems and site products - this is essential for site optimization.