Succession planning is not just another task on your to-do list – it’s a defining moment in your leadership. Are you willing to step up and take ownership of the future of your operation? It’s time to stop waiting for the right moment and start leading with intention.

Sustainability is a buzzword we often hear, but what about the sustainability of the family farm? What does it take for a farm to sustain itself generation after generation? Why does it seem so hard?

We could extensively discuss the misuse of the phrase “estate planning” to describe what should be called “transition planning” for ag operations. Instead, I’ll simply summarize by saying an estate plan is more than just a last will and testament, and should plan for the remainder of your life as well as your intentions after your death.

Beef producers have been hearing about the methods of low-stress livestock handling and reaping the benefits for a long time. There is no question that efforts to create low-stress environments for cattle results in an improved experience and productivity for both the animals and their handlers.

In a conversation with Matthew and Mike Flaman of Chris-Adie Holsteins, it’s obvious that their cows are top priority. Terms like “cow flow” and “cow comfort” pepper their descriptions of the operation. With an average of 38-40 litres of milk per day, the Holsteins of Chris-Adie are well cared for.

Working with farm family dynamics is a bit of an adventure when you are seeking to uncover what each person on the farm team really wants for their personal life, the farm business and their life beyond the farm gate. Let’s play with some points of common interest which would be helpful to better behaviour and culture on your farm.

The reasons dairy farm families continue to invest and grow are rooted in the nature of dairy farmers and fundamental economic drivers. It is important to understand the drivers for investment decisions – both for planning on your own farm and for the industry overall.