I work with local extension staff and individual farm operators in eighteen western Michigan counties. Farm management educational programs include USDA government programs, feasibility of enterprise expansions, oil, gas and wind energy leasing, rights of way negotiation, commodity marketing, farm business succession and farm business analysis.

BUSINESS SUCCESSION PLANNING ­ Programs are conducted that help families utilize various tools to address the communications and estate planning issues involved in intergenerational business transfers. Proper planning helps families avoid potential pitfalls including excessive estate taxes and inadequate funds for purchasing sibling shares of the estate.

PROVIDING ECONOMIC INTELLIGENCE ON MICHIGAN AGRICULTURE - Reports include the economic summaries of the major farming types in Michigan (e.g., dairy, cash crops, fruit, swine, and cattle feeding), trends in farmland values and leasing rates, current custom-hire rates, enterprise budgets, and other timely economic reports.

SUPPLYING BUSINESS MANAGEMENT INFORMATION ­ Educational programs related to business management include the TelFarm project. This computer-based accounting system is specifically designed for farming operations, making it possible for farm managers to closely monitor the financial progress of their business. This system is used to teach producers and others good financial management concepts. Other business management educational programs are conducted in the area of marketing, risk management, human resource management, investment analysis, energy, tax planning, and business structure.