When we get into the weeds of all this technology, it becomes very difficult to decide which technology is right for our business. Even more, it is difficult to decide when to implement it.

“Help, my siblings want farmland!” is one of my most viewed blogs. Our current reality of higher interest rates and rising land values needs to be addressed early on in your transition conversations.

When I was a child, I walked through my mother’s garden with a sense of awe and wonder. The velvet emerald grass spread under the Chinese Elm trees and lilac bushes.

Farm founders need to let go of being the ultimate decision-maker as they mentor the next generation to be the main farm manager. This is not an easy dance. You need to learn to let go of being in control of every part, however small the enterprise or activity – that is the definition of micromanaging.

I have seen many farm women live out giving and serving the needs of their families over seasons of hard times and good times. The issue I want to address is: What if? What if you have a difficult mother who is stalling decision making for transferring assets to the next generation?

Manure storage and handling does and will continue to play a major role in dairy farm sustainability and the ability to achieve carbon-neutral goals. Consider these tips to help you prepare for the future and determine what changes you can make today that will help you get one step closer to your sustainability goals.