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OSU Extension is pleased to announce that a new online self-paced course titled “Planning for the Future of Your Farm” is now available through OSU’s Professional and Continuing Education platform. This course is designed to help farm families navigate the complex process of farm transition and estate planning.
Using OSU Extension’s structured five-phase approach, participants explore strategies for transferring ownership, management, and assets to the next generation. The course emphasizes effective family communication, legal and financial planning tools, and proactive decision-making.
Whether your farm is large or small, this course provides the guidance that will help you to create a customized transition plan that reflects your family’s goals and values. Families are encouraged to participate together to develop a shared vision for the future.
Specifics of the Course
This course is organized into the following four modules:
- Introduction to the Course
- Farm Transition Planning
- Legal Tools for Farm Transition Planning
- Farm Transition Strategies
The course is available fully online with no scheduled class sessions or fixed due dates. Coursework can start at any time and be completed independently within the timeframe designated. Online modules include readings, lecture videos, assignments, quizzes, and more. In this course, participants will:
- Apply the OSU Extension Farm Transition Planning Approach across the Discovery, Dream, Dialogue, Design, and Destiny phases
- Evaluate the legacy, structure, and future goals of the farm business using reflection and strategic planning tools
- Facilitate effective family communication and establish practices for family business meetings
- Design and implement a transition plan including managerial succession, contingency planning, and asset distribution
- Identify and apply legal tools such as powers of attorney, wills, trusts, and probate-avoidance tools
- Assess risks to keeping farmland in the family and maintaining a viable farm operation
- Evaluate estate planning strategies to minimize tax liabilities and protect farm assets
- Conduct long-term care risk assessments and explore strategies to protect farm and family assets
Instructors
The instructors for this course are David Marrison, OSU Extension Field Specialist in Farm Management and Robert Moore, Attorney with the OSU Agricultural & Resource Law Program. Both are nationally recognized for their work in farm transition planning.
Cost and Registration
Full access to the course videos and materials is $149. Enrollment for this section of the course will closed on September 14, 2026 and enrolled participants will have until March 14, 2027 to complete the course.
Enroll in this course at go.osu.edu/MyFarmsFuture
Thank you
OSU Extension is thankful for the financial support which Ohio Corn and Wheat provided for the development of this course. Members of Ohio Corn and Wheat can receive an $100 enrollment discount code by contacting Ohio Corn and Wheat prior to enrolling in the course.
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