Future farm planning and strategy were themes of the Virginia Grain and Soybean Annual Conference earlier this year.
University of Nebraska Harlan Agribusiness Professor Emeritus Dr. Ron Hanson kicked off the event by reminding producers that while nearly 80% of farmers say they want their farms to be passed to their children, only 20% have a succession plan.
“It’s the parent’s responsibility to start the plan,” Hanson told the audience. “Empty chairs at the dinner table happen, so you better have a plan in place.”
Some farm families avoid estate planning because it’s emotionally difficult, and discussions about money, property and land ownership can put family relationships to the test. Secrets and fear of sharing financial information become roadblocks to putting a plan into place.
Ticks are a nuisance to many, but they can pose a threat to farmers whose livestock are at risk for disease spread by the pests.
Veterans and active military personnel interested in post-military careers in farming can learn about available resources during a two-day conference in mid-March.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture can’t predict the future, but it can make an educated guess with data from prospective planting surveys submitted by the nation’s farmers.
Representatives of Virginia’s leading agricultural organizations will share industry tips and resources during the Virginia Agritourism Conference at the Smithfield Center March 30 through April 1.
U.S.-planted hemp acreage soared to a 75-year high in 2018, but it hasn’t all been smooth sailing, according to a recent U.S. Department of Agriculture report.
Farmers are expected to see total income increase overall in 2020, though their accounting spreadsheets might indicate otherwise.
Plows and Politics 