Toolkit Home
Recordkeeping
Recordkeeping may be one of the most important steps one can take to manage a business. Agricultural operations can be complex, and efficient records can help make sense of it all. With good records, producers find they can make more sound business decisions, are more credit-worthy and experience less unknowns. Producers will need to choose the system that works best for them, or use a combination of systems.
In this section of the toolkit you will find:
- An article covering the importance of recordkeeping
- A free farm record book
- Lessons covering the basics on how to use Microsoft Excel, and how to use the program for farm records
- Spreadsheet templates created for agriculture
To get started, learn about the importance of recordkeeping with an article written by Dr. Alex White of Virginia Tech. Do We Have To Talk About Recordkeeping Systems provides a great overview of how you can benefit from keeping records and some common terminology you will need to know.
Request your free farm record book. Click the button below to request a free copy of the digital Farm Record Book. Don't forget to watch the free tutorial below on how to use the digital version.
Request a Digital Farm Record Book
Excel for Agriculture
Using Excel is a common system used in farming operations. Learn more about how it is used, how to make it useful for agriculture and how to get started using Excel for your own operation.
Listen to a series of video tutorials on the use of Excel for agriculture. Dr. Alex White of Virginia Tech shows just how easy it is to get started and to begin to see the benefits. The 4-part tutorial series covers:
- Bringing Your Records to Life
- Using Your Financial Records
- Spreadsheets 101
- Spreadsheets 102
- Video Handouts
- Spreadsheet Templates
Feel free to use the sample spreadsheets as is or edit them to meet the needs of your operation.
Agritourism Event Budget Spreadsheet
Quarterly Cashflow Spreadsheet
Feel free to utilize the following spreadsheet templates provided by Penn State Extension.
IMPORTANT NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
These materials are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute legal, financial, tax, or investment advice on any matter. We do not warrant that the materials provided are current and up-to-date with applicable laws and practices. You should not act or refrain from acting based on these materials or the information they contain without seeking legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction or other appropriate professional. To the fullest extent provided by law, Farm Credit of the Virginias, ACA will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on these materials or any information contained in these materials. Your use of the materials is at your own risk, and by accessing the materials, you hereby waive and hold harmless Farm Credit of the Virginias from any claims resulting therefrom.
