By Andi Anderson
Farmers looking to transition their operations to the next generation or new landowners are invited to a free seminar on farm succession planning. The workshop will take place on February 13, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy offices in Traverse City, Michigan.
This event, hosted by MSU Extension in partnership with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, the Leelanau Conservancy, and MIFarmLink, will provide practical insights on effective farm transfer strategies.
Key topics include succession planning basics, such as trusts, wills, gifting, and selling, as well as the importance of family communication. Presenters will discuss conservation easements and their role in successful estate planning. Additionally, MIFarmLink will share how they connect landowners with farmers seeking farmland.
A farmer panel after lunch, provided for attendees, will share firsthand experiences with farm transfer. The workshop aims to guide participants through key decisions and questions related to transitioning their farms while preserving agricultural use.
Agenda Highlights:
- Introduction to Succession Planning: Communication and essential concepts
- Transfer Techniques: Trusts, wills, gifting, and selling options
- MIFarmLink Overview: Bridging farmers with farmland
- Conservation Easements: Tools for succession planning
- Farmer Panel: Insights from real farm transitions
- Next Steps: Planning for a successful farm transfer
The workshop is supported by the Land Transfer Navigators Program, led by the American Farmland Trust with USDA-NRCS support. While attendance is free, registration is encouraged at https://events.anr.msu.edu/Passingthetorch2025/.
Farmers and landowners interested in preserving their farm’s legacy and ensuring its future use are encouraged to attend this informative event.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Michigan, General