Farm On is a service to help preserve the family farm business by matching beginning farmers who do not own land, with retiring farmers who do not have heirs to continue the family farm business. Farm On maintains a database of potential beginning farmers and landowners. Farm On is for a beginning farmer who:
- Wants to find a way to pursue or continue a farming career.
- Has a desire to farm but lacks the financial means.
- Will invest time, energy, resources and sweat equity in return for an opportunity to farm.
- Is not a farm land owner.
- Wants to avoid large debt needed for start-up costs.
- Plans to retire within the next 5 to 10 years.
- Does not have anyone to continue the farm business.
- Has a desire for the farm business to continue.
- Wants to help a beginning farmer.
- Would like to take maximum advantage of tax savings, such as reduced capital gains and income tax.
- Wants to help preserve their family farm business and their local communities by encouraging young Iowans to move into farming.
To read more about the program and how to get involved select your category: Beginning Farmer | Retiring Farmer
To view a list of CURRENT AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES click here.
To contact a similar program in another state check out the National Farm Transition Network.
Ag
Link Seminar
Ag Link is a seminar for ISU juniors and seniors who plan to
join their family farm operations after they graduate. Family members
and others
in the operation also attend the seminar, offered by the ISU
Department of Agricultural Education. Topics include conflict resolution,
goal setting, business analysis, farm planning, and management, which
are viewed differently because of distinct and sometimes conflicting
goals and
endowments of capital, labor, technical knowledge, and management expertise.
Starting in 2003/2004 students have been able to apply for credit.
For more information on these seminars call 1-877-BFC-1999 or
visit the Ag Link page.
Individual
Farm Financial Analysis
The Center supports the analysis of individual farm situations using
the FINPACK computer program. Extension Farm
Financial Associates perform
the analysis in individual sessions with farm families. To obtain
more information about the analysis or to request one call 1-877-BFC-1999 or
visit http://www.extension.iastate.edu/farmanalysis/index.htm.
Educational
Materials
Development of the Farm Savvy manual has been another major
Center activity. The 200 page manual outlines a process for the transition
of a farm business to the succeeding generation. It's intended to
be used by vocational agriculture teachers, community college instructors,
and extension staff to present programs for new farmers or those
who
wish to transfer a farming operation to another person. The manual
is available for $50 from your local extension office or
you may order it from ISU Publication Distribution.
Individual
Consultation and Referral
An attorney, a full-time coordinator, and extension personnel
are available by appointment for individualized consultation.
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Programs Links
1.877.BFC.1999
bfc@iastate.edu