Survey Shows Growing Need for Farm Transition Help

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota State Southern Agricultural Center of Excellence (SACE) has released findings from its 2025-2026 Minnesota Farm Transition Survey, highlighting the growing need for farm succession planning support across the state. The survey gathered responses from more than 75 producers located in 29 counties across southern and central Minnesota.

The results show that more than 90% of respondents intend to transfer their farm operations to the next generation or another successor. However, many producers remain in the early stages of planning or have not yet started the process. The survey also found that 70% of those planning a transition hope to begin within the next seven years, indicating a major shift in farm ownership and management is approaching.

Tina LeBrun, Executive Director of SACE, emphasized the importance of preparing for these changes. “Our survey shows that Minnesota farmers are acutely aware that transition is coming. Over 90 percent plan to transfer their operations, many within the next three to seven years, yet a significant number are still early in the process or unsure where to begin,” said Tina LeBrun. “With contributing factors such as family dynamics, financial complexity and uncertainty about successors all playing a role, it’s clear that producers need more than awareness. They need practical, trusted support to turn intention into action and ensure the future of their farms.”

The survey identified several common challenges that slow the transition process. These include family relationships, capital gains tax concerns, long-term health care planning, and uncertainty about how to begin succession planning. Nearly one-quarter of respondents also reported they do not yet know who will own or manage their farms in the future.

Many farmers expressed interest in additional resources such as educational workshops, planning retreats, one-on-one consulting, and access to legal and tax professionals. Producers also requested guidance on trusts, LLCs, land ownership structures, and ways to balance fairness among heirs.

Find more information, including the full survey report, and farm transition resources at https://centerofagriculture.org/farm-transition/.

Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer