Nebraska workshop - smooth farm transitions

By Scout Nelson

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Center for Agricultural Profitability is hosting "Returning to the Farm," a workshop series aiding families in the transition of bringing members back to the farm or ranch. Commencing with a two-day workshop in Kearney on March 8 and 9, the series is designed for multi-generational families and will take place at the Nebraska Extension office in Buffalo County.

Focused on financial planning and successful working arrangements, the program assists families in developing estate and transition plans, setting goals, and improving communication among members. The initiative encourages two or three generations of a family to participate, fostering a collaborative approach to learning and initiating essential processes.

Extension Educator Jessica Groskopf expressed, “Returning to the Farm gives families the tools and resources to have a successful transition with more family joining the business.” The workshop features expert presenters from extension services, agribusiness, and legal professionals.

Participants will engage in activities to:

• Learn effective communication strategies.
• Set personal and professional goals.
• Develop a comprehensive farm or ranch transition plan.
• Identify estate planning issues and devise effective strategies.
• Review financial feasibility and explore financial tools.

The workshop fee is $75 per person if registered by March 1, increasing to $85 per person after March 2. The registration covers dinner on March 8, lunch on March 9, and two follow-up virtual workshops. Accommodation is not included.

The tentative agenda for the workshop includes sessions on goal setting, farm estate and transition planning, family meetings, and financial considerations. The series emphasizes debriefing, attorney presentations, family planning sessions, and virtual workshops to ensure a holistic approach to the transition process.

"Returning to the Farm" provides a valuable platform for families to collaboratively address the intricacies of bringing new members into the agricultural fold, enhancing communication, and securing a prosperous future for their operations.

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