By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, in partnership with the Iowa State University Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation, has launched a new educational program to help farmers and landowners plan for the future. The Estate and Succession Planning for the Farm initiative offers practical tools and professional guidance to ensure smooth transitions of farm ownership and management.
The program features a series of in-person workshops across Iowa, providing step-by-step guidance for creating written estate and succession plans. Participants will also receive complimentary lifetime access to the Estate and Succession Planning for the Farm Portal, an interactive online resource designed to support long-term planning.
The portal includes hours of expert-led videos, case studies, and a detailed workbook covering all key aspects of estate and succession planning. It explores topics such as communication strategies, legal documentation, tax implications, business structures, and family decision-making.
Kristine Tidgren, director of the Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation, emphasized the importance of proactive planning. “If you have a farm, you need a plan. A written estate and succession plan is essential to protecting your future, preserving your legacy or ensuring a smooth transition to the next generation,” she said.
More than 15 agricultural, legal, and financial professionals collaborated to create the comprehensive portal. For $75, independent learners can also subscribe to the online resource, gaining lifetime access to continuously updated educational content.
Farmers, landowners, and their families are encouraged to register early for the workshops, as space is limited. A full list of workshop dates and locations is available on the Estate and Succession Planning for the Farm Workshops page or through local ISU Extension and Outreach county offices.
By combining expert-led education with digital resources, Iowa State University aims to help Iowa’s farm families plan confidently for the future and preserve their agricultural heritage.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Business, Education