Farm Legacy & Transition Planning
Preserving your land, vision, and values for the next generation.
Transitioning a farm or ranch to the next generation is one of the most important—and often most complex—challenges facing agricultural families. From succession planning and estate management to resolving heirs’ property and identifying new land stewards, early planning is essential to protecting your legacy.
This section provides trusted tools, legal resources, and USDA-supported programs to help farm families navigate transition with confidence. Whether you’re planning for retirement, preparing to pass on the farm, or just getting started with a long-term vision, these resources are here to support you every step of the way.
Explore pathways to keep your land productive, your family prepared, and your legacy secure.
1. Succession Planning & Estate Management
These resources assist in developing comprehensive plans to ensure the continuity of farm operations across generations:
- Land for Good – Farm Succession Planning Workbook
- A practical guide offering worksheets and resources to facilitate farm transfer planning.
- Farm Bureau Financial Services – Succession Planning Guide
- Provides insights into the succession planning process, including defining goals and involving family members.
- National Agricultural Library – Legal Considerations for Small Farms
- Outlines legal aspects such as taxes, land access, and estate planning crucial for small farm operations.
2. USDA Programs Supporting Transition
USDA offers programs to facilitate land transition and resolve ownership issues:
- Heirs’ Property Relending Program (HPRP)
- Assists heirs in resolving land ownership and succession challenges on agricultural land.
- Transition Incentives Program (TIP)
- Encourages landowners to transition expiring Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land to beginning, veteran, or socially disadvantaged farmers.
3. Educational Resources & Support
These materials provide guidance and best practices for effective farm transition planning:
- SARE – Farm Succession Planning: What’s Needed
- Discusses the human resources aspect of transfer planning, focusing on managing the process and advisor team.
