There are many overlapping systems in play on a family farm. Your family circle is your nuclear family which relates to your parents or in-laws, and your siblings, who may also be business partners or farm heirs.

Farm succession planning is a critical topic that often gets brushed under the rug due to a variety of emotional and practical reasons. Families and farmowners may avoid discussing succession because of deeply rooted values, fear of mortality and the uncertainty of what lies ahead.

Twenty-five years ago, I would have told you that topics like self confidence and insecurities were a bunch of fluff. However, I’ve been through a lot and can tell you that it is the soft issues that become hard problems in farming.

When the second generation took over at Salisdairy Farm, they vowed to always have honest, open communication with the farm team and it has brought them success with profitability.

In January, I had the delight of watching a group of 20 farm employees and managers racing against the clock to change race car tires in Bob Parker’s “Pit Crew Challenge.”