Session Descriptions

Day One Session Descriptions: Farm Transition Planning

Growing Stronger Together – Cultivating Your Farm Transition

Bill Northey, Agribusiness Association of Iowa

  • A successful farm transition requires adapting to the ever-evolving fields of farm finance and ag policy. Learn from former Iowa Secretary of Ag, Bill Northey, as he discusses the importance of transition planning in the face of uncertainty.

Update on Farmland Values and Inflation

David Oppedahl, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago

  • Recent land values and inflation trends impact all types of farm operations. This session provides an update on the current status of land values and the impact of inflation on farm businesses.

2024 Ag Market Outlook

Dr. Chad Hart, ISU Center for Agriculture and Rural Development

  • As 2024 begins, so does the prediction for this year’s commodity markets. Learn the most up-to-date information on agricultural production and what this means for producers.

Farm Leases in Transition

Alejandro Plastina, ISU Center for Agricultural & Rural Development

Jeff Troendale, Hertz Farm Management

  • The 2022 Iowa Farmland Ownership and Tenure survey found that 80% of Iowa farmland is owned by someone not planning to sell. Whether you are a farmer or farmland owner, join this informative session to gain valuable insights into the critical role of farm leases in long-term business planning and how to use this information during negotiations.

 (Breakout Session #1) Beginning Farmer Loans & Tax Credits*

Iowa Agricultural Development Division

USDA – Farm Service Agency

  • Learn about what loan programs exist at the state and federal level to help new farmers and what state tax benefits exist for working with a beginning farmer.
  • *This session will NOT be available for webinar participants.

(Breakout Session #1) Changes to Iowa’s Retired Farmer Tax Laws

Kristine Tidgren, ISU Center for Agricultural Law & Taxation

  • It’s never too early to start thinking about retirement. Explore Iowa’s new laws on retirement income and how it impacts those leasing or selling farmland.

(Breakout Session #2) Meet the USDA*

Matt Russell, USDA – Farm Service Agency

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of the USDA’s multifaceted role in supporting farmers. Attendees will learn about the wide range of programs, encompassing everything from financial assistance to sustainable farming practices.
  • *This session will NOT be available for webinar participants.

(Breakout Session #2) Business Entities as a Management Transfer Tool

Joe Leo, Brown Winnick

  • Business entities can be a useful tool to transfer the ownership and management of the farm to the next generation. In this session, attendees will learn about the benefits and disadvantages of several different business entities and their impact on management options.

Prepping for the Succession Plan

Kiley Fleming, Iowa Mediation Service

  • An important first step in the planning process is communicating your goals to the people impacted by your decisions. Attendees will learn practical ways to navigate generational differences and reframe difficult conversations around fairness.

Day Two Session Descriptions: Farm Estate Planning

Navigating the Future – Strategic Planning in Farm Succession Planning

Jeanne Bernick, Pinion Global

  • Although the details of a plan may vary from farm to farm, strategic thinking plays a crucial role in the success in any operation. Whether you are just starting out or fine tuning years of planning, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions.

Legal Tools in Estate Planning

Jennifer Harrington, ISU Center for Agricultural Law & Taxation 

  • In this session, Jennifer Harrington will discuss the impact of the different types of asset ownership on farm succession and estate planning as well as common legal tools including wills, trusts, and substitute decision-making options.

Federal Income Tax Planning on the Farm

Kristine Tidgren, ISU Center for Agricultural Law & Taxation 

  • When developing an estate and succession plan, it is important to consider how taxes will impact the transfer of assets. This session will cover potential tax liabilities that can occur during life and upon death.

(Breakout Session #3A) Building the Foundation for Farmland Access

Paul Dietman, Compeer Financial

  • In this engaging discussion, we’ll explore the various strategies and resources available for accessing farmland, whether through leasing, purchasing, or other creative options. This session will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to embark on your agricultural journey.

(Breakout Session #3B) Protecting Your Legacy – Conservation as a Risk Management Strategy

Catherine DeLong, Iowa State Extension & Outreach

  • Explore the pivotal role of conservation strategies in preserving your agricultural legacy. In this session, discover how conservation practices not only protect the environment but also fortify your farm against unforeseen challenges. Gain insights into sustainable land management, financial opportunities, and resilient practices that can help safeguard your farm’s future.

(Breakout Session #4A) Finding Balance – Estate Planning with a Crowd

Anne Reser-Morehead, Whitfield & Eddy Law

  • Effective estate planning for farm owners becomes particularly complex when multiple children or beneficiaries are involved. Delve into the unique challenges facing farm families including partition disputes and learn about the legal strategies available to facilitate a smooth transition.

(Breakout Session #4B) Community Involvement & Rural Vitality

  • As you start your farming journey, explore opportunities to give back to your community through your farming legacy, such as mentorship programs, educational initiatives, or partnerships with local organizations.

Harvesting Value – Partnering with a Farmland Appraiser

Brad Hayes, BH Appraisals

  • In the intricate world of farm estate planning, understanding the true value of your farmland is a key building block. Discover the intricacies of farmland valuation, including factors that can significantly impact your land’s worth, such as soil quality, location, market trends, and potential uses.

Sowing the Seeds of Success

Kathy and Carroll Hoksbergen, Pella, Iowa

Kitt Tovar Jensen, ISU Beginning Farmer Center

  • Kathy and Carroll Hoksbergen made the difficult decision to sell their family farm outside of the family. Learn from their journey as they offer practical advice about making decisions and keeping your identity in retirement.