Succession planning for farms isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about legacy, relationships, and trust. Passing a farm to the next generation requires courage, clarity, and communication across generations. The earlier conversations begin, the more options families preserve. With many farmers nearing retirement age and fewer young people entering agriculture, planning ahead has never been more important. There is certainty in preparation, but the process to get there can be complicated and can be overwhelming.
The following five tips will help you have successful farm transition conversations:
- Create Accountability and Identify a Champion
Succession planning for farms works best when responsibility doesn’t fall on only one person. Start by creating a shared commitment across generations to protect the farm’s future by working together on a plan. You should also have someone at the farm who is the designated person moving the process forward. - Recognize Each Other’s Point of View
It’s common for family members and connected stakeholders to the farm to have different visions for the future. The senior generation may prioritize stability and legacy, while the younger one may prioritize innovation and sustainability. Focusing on what is possible moving forward creates room for conversations that build mutual understanding. - Build Financial Transparency
The next generation should have access to financial information for the best chance of success. Financial transparency doesn’t have to happen all at once. Start with shared goals, then grow into deeper conversations about assets, debt, and sustainability. If financial conversations prove to be a roadblock, consider bringing in an accountant or advisor. - Treat the Transition Plan as a Living Document
Writing down a shared vision for the transition will ensure everyone is on the same page and reduce misunderstandings. It serves as a roadmap for what needs to happen and by when. This is a working document, not a final verdict. A transition plan isn’t permanent; it evolves as families, markets, and life circumstances change. - Invite Neutral Parties for Support
A facilitator doesn’t replace family leadership, they protect relationships while guiding hard conversations. A mediator or facilitator has experience in family coaching and succession planning that can help create a sense of fairness, set the agenda at meetings, ensure nothing is missed, and encourage reluctant participants to become more involved.
Additional Tips for the Next Generation
Starting a conversation about succession planning for farms can feel intimidating, especially when the farm has been built through decades of hard work, sacrifice, and resilience. For many senior farm owners, the farm is more than a business; it’s their life’s work. If you’re part of the next generation, consider approaching the conversation with patience, respect, and curiosity.
- Begin with appreciation, not pressure
Acknowledge the years of work and commitment that built the operation. Gratitude builds trust and opens doors to meaningful dialogue.
“I’m grateful for everything you’ve built and the sacrifices you’ve made for this farm. I’m not asking for decisions right now, I just want to start the conversation.” - Lead with questions, not requests
Try asking:
“What are your hopes for the farm in the future?”
“What does a good transition look like for you?”
“How can I best support the legacy you’ve built?” - Pick the right time
Avoid the busy or high-stress seasons. Pick a calm time when everyone can be present and focused. - Acknowledge that this is planning and not a take over
Emphasize that succession planning is about continuity, stability, and honoring the legacy and not rushing anyone out. - Be patient with the process
These conversations can take time. Change can be difficult, and expect that progress will happen in small steps.
Starting the conversation is the first and most meaningful step you can make in the future of your family, your farm, and your community. When you’re ready for support, submit a mediation request, and an experienced mediator will get you started.
