March 22, 2016
Facilitation Services Available for Farm and Ranch Succession Planning
The average age of U.S. producers continues to rise and families will need to explore options for the transitional feasibility of current and future owners. Succession planning is a step by step process where families work together to develop a plan to incorporate the next owner and pass on knowledge and resources that will sustain the operation.
Farm and ranch families may be uncertain of how to begin developing a succession plan and need guidance moving forward. This is where a succession planning facilitator plays a key role. “The facilitator can help the family identify strengths, barriers and opportunities as they pass the farm business on to the next generation. They guide family members to resources and individuals who can help them find the information they need to develop an effective succession plan” said Jerry Jost, facilitator and mediator for Kansas Agricultural Mediation Services.
Jost describes a facilitated meeting as guiding participants through shared discussions about important issues. “A facilitator helps families set an agenda and works to enable all voices to be heard within a respectful environment. While the facilitator remains neutral with the content of the discussion, they help everyone keep track of the substantive issues and options raised by the family as they chart their path forward.”
Trained facilitators have experience working with Kansas farm and ranch families. They offer guidance and support as families cultivate options for creating a succession plan. Facilitation services can be requested by calling Kansas Agricultural Mediation Services, 800-321-3276.
Families may also visit the succession planning website and navigate through a variety of resources, including “Transition Planning: 12 Steps to Keep the Family Farming” as well as more topic focused areas such as estate planning or family communications.