Describe the Issue or Situation.

The average age of US farmers increases every year.   More and more families, operators, and farm organizations are becoming alarmed as more and more farms are lost.   Farm transition from one operator to the next is in the spotlight.  UK and KSU agriculture extension agents in the West 8 area identified a need for programming on farm transition planning and implementation.   The need was identified after County Extension Councils were polled in preparation for 2025 Plan of Work organization.  

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

W8 agents set out to provide a regional program.   Program sponsorship with provided by local county Farm Bureau Federations.  The day long program featured a powerful line up of speakers, and a panel discussion featuring local professionals who work with farm transition specifically in the W8 area.  Partners in the program were KY Farm Bureau, KY Department of Agriculture, Barren Co Farm Federation, Hart Co Farm Bureau Federation, Campbell, Myers, & Rutledge-CPA, Cecilian Bank, and of course Kentucky State University and the University of Kentucky. 

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

The target audience with current farm owners and operator, and their likely successors.  We also targeted local Ag lenders and farm organizations.  In total 31 people were in attendance for the program.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. 

1. 92% of respondents would recommend this program to a friend
2. 82% of respondents gain greater clarity on workings of farm transition planning
3. 88% of respondents found the panel discussion helpful
4. Suggestions for improvement
   1. More take home (reading) information
   2. A checklist or list of the things to do in order
5. Key Takeaway Messages
   1. Get started now
   2. There are lots of option and opinions
   3. Trusts are not as complex or confusing as once thought