By Andi Anderson
Farmers seeking guidance on estate and succession planning should not miss the 2025 Farm Transitions Conference. Scheduled for February 6-7, 2025, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, the event is hosted by the Beginning Farmer Center at Iowa State University.
The two-day event focuses on helping farmers plan for transitioning their farms to the next generation. It is ideal for those revisiting their estate plans, beginning farmers, and anyone seeking expert advice on navigating this important process.
Participants will benefit from sessions led by attorneys, farm management professionals, and experienced farmers. Key topics include tax considerations, using business entities for succession, wills and trusts in estate planning, credit access for beginning farmers, and farm diversification. The conference theme, “taking action,” includes a specialized session on transforming ideas into tangible succession plans.
Kristiana Coutu, director of the Beginning Farmer Center, emphasized the importance of these decisions, noting, “Farm transition planning can feel overwhelming, but this conference aims to empower participants with practical tools to take the next step.”
Attendees will receive a comprehensive 100-page workbook, Estate and Succession Planning for the Farm, published by ISU Extension and Outreach. This resource will serve as a valuable guide throughout their planning journey.
Registration is open for in-person or virtual participation. Farmers will also have networking opportunities to connect with professionals and peers at various stages of the transition process.
For more information, visit the Beginning Farmer Center website or contact 515-357-6680.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle