Cultivating Success: Building Your Farm's Future with MSU Extension

Cora Okkema<okkemaco@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension - November 01, 2024

Succession planning for a family farm requires time, patience and the right advisors to guide each person throughout the transition plan. Join MSU Extension educators for a four-part series covering major topics for a positive farm transition.

Family walking through pasture with cattle

Michigan State University Extension presents the “Cultivating Success: Building Your Farm's Future” workshop, designed to help farm families plan for the future through effective farm succession strategies. With over 59% of Michigan’s farm owners aged 55 or older, this workshop provides essential guidance to support the next generation of agricultural leaders.

The program will take place from January to February 2025 at Montcalm Community College in Sidney, Mich. This four-part series will provide practical insights and expert-led discussions with agricultural attorneys and farm business management advisors, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to manage ownership transitions and maintain family harmony.

Workshop topics

Preparing for succession planning discussions
Asset transfer and estate planning strategies
Business structures and operational transitions
Working with attorneys for effective succession planning

Why succession planning matters

Succession planning ensures the longevity of farm operations while addressing the financial security of the senior generation, minimizing taxes and fostering unity among family members. This workshop offers tailored solutions to meet individual farm needs and address the challenges of ownership transfer.

Key workshop benefits

Expert guidance: Access to agricultural attorneys for presentations and Q&A.
Family-oriented solutions: Strategies for supporting both senior and successor generations.
Interactive learning: Hands-on exercises and scenario-based discussions.
Cost: $250 per family, including personalized planning resources.

Join us and secure your farm’s future

This workshop series is your chance to prepare for a sustainable transition that benefits both current and future generations.

Plan now to attend “Cultivating Success: Building Your Farm's Future” at Montcalm Community College where you will gain the tools and resources needed to ensure your farm’s success for generations to come.

Visit the event page for more details and to register

For more information or to register, contact:

Corey Clark: 517-420-2042 | clarkcr@msu.edu | farm business management educator
Chris Bardenhagen: 231-256-9888 | bardenh1@msu.edu | farm business management educator
Steve Whittington: 309-502-9595 | whitti34@msu.edu | field crops educator
Cora Okkema: 231-592-9493 | okkemaco@msu.edu | dairy educator

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).