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A family farm takes a lot of people to run it. The more generations the farm has been in the family, the larger and more complex operations eventually become. But what about when it’s time to make important decisions about the farm? Who should make those decisions and who should be allowed to offer their […]

The time comes when every farmer must consider handing over the keys to the tractor, but taking certain steps now can lead to better decision-making and far less conflict when it comes to succession planning. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), during the next five years, about 10 percent of all farmland will […]

For many of us it can be difficult to wrap our heads around succession planning. There are always so many things to do on a farm, so many things that require attention here and now, that something as distant and unimaginable is hard to comprehend.   But succession isn’t something to sweep under the rug. […]

When siblings inherit the family farm without an agreed-upon succession plan, it can be no surprise when conflict ensues. Perhaps one brother wants to keep operating the farm as mom and dad always did. Yet a sister has new management ideas for additional crops and product. Even worse, another sibling doesn’t want to own a […]

Farming is one of the most dangerous industries on the face of the planet. And so how to plan to prevent injuries, and understand their costs, must be part of any farm’s plans. According to research by S. G. Gerberich, R. W. Gibson, and L. R. French, Et al., the majority of injuries (40%) were […]

Marrying into a family of farmers can be just as rewarding as it is challenging. You’re not only marrying a farmer, but, you are also marrying the farm. Whether you are coming from the “big city” lifestyle or simple country life, living of a farm can be an entirely new world to someone who is […]

The farm can be a lonely place sometimes. A farmer might be milking alone for hours, twice a day. Communication isn’t even possible when operating loud machinery. A farm wife might have little kids running around her constantly, but no adult to talk to. Loneliness, lack of communication, and too few opportunities to reconnect with […]

It can be challenging for a farmer to come up with a proper progression plan that allows for smooth sailing going forward. There are a few key areas that need to be discussed before these plans can come to fruition, though. The following guide is here to help. Upfront Knowledge When it comes time to […]

You grew up on the farm, learned to drive a tractor as soon as you could manage the clutch, and spent more hours talking to the animals than you have to your wife. That farm, with all its weeds, stones, and mud holes, is more precious to you than a work of priceless art. You […]

Bad times get us down. Whether the crops fare poorly, the cows don’t produce well, or the chickens get sick, you know the feelings of despair and hopelessness. You want to kick at the ground and raise a big cloud of disgust. These natural reactions to farm trials can be okay for a little while, […]