Subscribe to receive top agriculture news
Be informed daily with these free e-newsletters
How to keep the peace during farm transition planningHow to keep the peace during farm transition planning
Tough Decisions: Blending traditional farm management strategies with more modern methods takes mutual respect and additional planning.
January 8, 2025
4 Min Read
PASS IT ON: Different generations on the farm have different values, traditions and ways of doing things. Modernizing a farming operation with multiple generations requires mutual respect for the past and looking forward to the future. Farm Progress
By Anastasia Meyer
Farming is more than just an occupation — it’s a way of life, often passed down from generation to generation. However, as farms transition from one generation to the next, differing perspectives on management, innovation and farm direction can lead to friction within the family.
These generational differences, while challenging, also present opportunities for growth and modernization if approached with mutual respect and understanding. Finding common ground is essential for ensuring the farm’s long-term success while preserving family harmony.
Generational perspectives
Older generations often bring decades of experience and a deep understanding of the farm’s operations, land and financial history. Their decisions are often rooted in practicality and a desire for stability, shaped by years of navigating volatile markets, weather uncertainties and tight profit margins. For many older farmers, “tried-and-true” practices represent security, and any major changes to these routines can feel risky or unnecessary.
In contrast, younger generations entering farm management are frequently exposed to modern farming methods, technological advancements and practices through education and external experiences. They may want to implement precision agriculture tools, diversify income streams or adopt regenerative practices to address environmental concerns or increase profitability.
Although their enthusiasm and innovative ideas can inject fresh energy into the farm, these changes can sometimes be seen by older family members as a challenge to their authority or as risky ventures that disrupt the farm's proven systems.
Modernization without alienation
Introducing new practices or technology can be a source of tension if not handled carefully. For younger farmers, it’s important to approach modernization as a collaborative effort rather than a unilateral decision. Here are some steps to navigate this process:
Start with respect and acknowledgment. Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the older generation in building and sustaining the farm. Showing respect for their contributions sets a positive tone and makes them more receptive to new ideas. Instead of presenting changes as a critique of past practices, frame them as opportunities to build on the farm’s legacy.
Demonstrate the value of innovation. One of the biggest concerns older generations often have is the expense of implementing new practices and, therefore, they may be hesitant toward change. Younger farmers should take the time to present clear, data-driven evidence to support how these costs will be managed and demonstrate the potential return on investment. For instance, show how precision technology can reduce input costs, or how a rotational grazing system can improve soil health and long-term productivity. Sharing real-world examples or trying new practices on a small scale can help demonstrate results without significant risk while building trust in proposed innovations.
Preserve familiar practices. Where possible, change doesn’t have to mean abandoning everything that’s worked in the past. Finding ways to incorporate traditional methods into new systems can create a sense of continuity while still modernizing. For example, pairing modern machinery with long-standing soil management practices can blend the old and the new seamlessly.
Finding common ground
Every farm family will need to strike its own balance between tradition and innovation, but the following approaches can help bridge generational divides:
Open communication. Regular family meetings focused on farm management provide a space for all parties to voice their concerns, goals and visions for the future. Encourage honest conversations while avoiding blame or criticism. Recognizing each person’s perspective can foster mutual understanding and prevent resentment.
Shared decision-making. Transitioning farm management doesn’t mean one generation must relinquish all control at once. A shared decision-making model allows older generations to stay involved in key operations while younger members gradually take on more responsibility. This phased approach builds trust and ensures continuity.
Professional mediation. When conflicts arise, bringing in a neutral third party, such as a financial adviser, facilitator, mediator, clergy member or farm transition planner, can help resolve disagreements. These professionals can facilitate discussions, provide insights and help families align their goals.
Develop a clear transition plan. A formal transition plan ensures clarity on roles, timelines and responsibilities as the farm transitions between generations. Having this plan in writing can alleviate uncertainty and prevent conflicts down the road.
The value of collaboration
Generational differences don’t have to be a source of division. Instead, they can bring valuable perspectives to the table. Younger generations can bring fresh ideas and adaptability, while older generations can provide wisdom, experience and a steady hand. When these strengths are combined, farms are better equipped to weather challenges and seize opportunities.
By fostering open communication, mutual respect and a willingness to compromise, farm families can navigate the complexities of generational transition. Together, they can create a farm management strategy that honors the past while embracing the future, ensuring the farm’s success for generations to come.
Meyer is a Nebraska Extension educator and agricultural economist.
You May Also Like
Current Conditions for
Boone, IA
35°F
Sunny
Day 36º
Night 0º
8.21 mph
Enter a zip code to see the weather conditions for a different location.
Feb 20 - Feb 22, 2025
Feb 20 - Feb 22, 2025
The New York Farm Show is the leading farm show in the Northeast since 1985.
LEARN MORE