As farm operators get older, the question of who will run the family farm emerges. Farm operators know they need to discuss this transfer with family members, but some families find it difficult to communicate because there are several issues that must be considered.
This program presents three strategies for having a discussion about farm transfer.
- Direct Control
- Indirect Control
- No Control
Lesson Instructions
This lesson has unique sections that lead you through the learning process and can be viewed sequentially or in a random order. To view a unit, click on the "down arrow" icon in the Navigation menu. Mouse over a unit title to view the subunits. You can click on a unit title or any subunit title to jump to that location in the lesson. To progress through pages in a unit use the "arrow" icons located at the bottom of the text box. Those arrows will also indicate how many pages are in a subunit.
You can also progress through the units by clicking the "Next" or "Previous" icons located next to the navigation bar at the top. The "Next" button takes you to the next unit in the lesson. The "Previous" button takes you back one unit in the lesson.
In this lesson, you will need to view the video clips to work through the content. Also there are interactive exercises to use what you have learned. When you complete a unit you will need to move to the next unit by using the Navigation menu or by clicking on the "Next" button located next to the Navigation menu.
Introduction
As farm operators get older, the question of who will run the family farm emerges. Farm operators know they need to discuss this transfer with family members, but some families find it difficult to communicate because there are several issues that must be considered.
This program presents three strategies for having a discussion about farm transfer.
- Direct Control strategies are conversations where one person addresses another person in a confrontational or patronizing manner. Orders are given without concern for the other person.
- Indirect Control strategies are conversations that are more collaborative in nature. If any decision making takes place, it is likely to be shared.
- No Control strategies are neutral. No solution to the problem is offered.
Play the video on the right to hear the opening scenario. When completed go on to the next section
Ed: This farm has been in the family for over 100 years and we have had a good life here. Now my son wants me to stop farming and take it easy. I know he is right, but I am not ready to stop doing what I love. But, he wants me to listen to what he has to say.
John: I do want Dad to listen to what I have to say. Our son, Mark is graduating and getting married, and he wants to come and farm full time with us. I want Dad to help me make plans that are necessary for that to happen.
Discussing Farm Transfer with an Older Parent
In this scenario, John, the farm operator, wants to talk with his father, Ed, about transferring the farm to him. John's son, Mark, is finishing college, and John wants him to join the farming operation.
Attitude: John needs to be respectful in making this request. Discuss the topic with as little emotion as possible.
Preparation: Have some alternative plans in mind and be ready to suggest them. For example, transfer control of the property over a period of time so that the older parent gets used to the idea of turning over control.
Timing: Choose a time of day and location where a quiet, thoughtful conversation is possible.
Behavior: Be prepared for resistance, but have a suggestion ready for follow-up such as making an appointment with an estate planning attorney.
Direct Control
View the video to the right to hear the direct control strategy.
Ed: What are you doing?
John: I am looking at these numbers to see if there will be enough income when Mark graduates, and gets married, and comes home to farm with us full time.
Ed: I can figure it out. Give me those numbers.
John: It is time for me to take charge of the planning. You and Mom should think about taking it easy this summer.
Ed: I can do it. I just got a little behind on my paperwork.
John: Dad, you have done it all these years. I need to take some of the burden off your shoulders.
Indirect Control
View the video to the right to hear the indirect control strategy.
Ed: What are you doing?
John: I am thinking about Mark graduating, getting married, and coming home to farm with us. I wonder if there will be enough income for three families.
Ed: I can figure it out. Give me those numbers.
John: Dad, you are great with numbers. But, I need to think it over and see what changes we need to make. Maybe you and Mom should start taking Social Security.
Ed: I didn’t think I would ever see the day when you would take charge. This is something new.
John: I am ready to take charge all right, but I want to make sure you feel comfortable with easing up on the farm work.
No Control
View the video to the right to hear the no control strategy.
Ed: What are you doing?
John: I am looking at these farm records and thinking about planting next year. Any new ideas?
Ed: I think the planting should be about the same as last year. Maybe we need more beans.
John: That sounds alright. We should include Mark in the work. You know he is graduating and getting married. He wants to come and farm with us full time.
Ed: I am glad to hear that. We could sure use another pair of hands.
John: Well, I hope that yields will be up and prices will be higher so Mark can have a share of any profit.
Using What You Have Learned
<div class="quiz">
<quiz attempts="3" exam="nonscored">
<intro>
<title>Who Will Get grandpa's Farm? -- Scenarios
</title>
<content>
<p><b>Using what You have learned</b></p>
<p>The definitions of the communications strategies are:</p>
<p><b>Direct Control</b>: conversations where one person addresses another person in a confrontational or patronizing manner. Orders are given without concern for the other person.</p>
<p><b>Indirect Control</b>: these are conversations that are more collaborative in nature. If any decision making takes place, it is likely to be shared.</p>
<p><b>No Control</b>: this is a neutral conversation. No solution to the problem is presented.</p>
<p>What type of communication strategy is shown in each of the following statements?<br />
A. Direct Control
B. Indirect Control
C. No Control </p>
</content>
</intro>
<questions>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Parent says) I have made an appointment with an attorney and I want you to go with me.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="Yes" msg="Direct Control is correct!" />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is incorrect. The farm operator has given an order to the parent." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect. The farm operator has given an order to the parent." />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Parent says) How are you feeling today? Would you like to come over for a chicken dinner?">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect. This is a neutral conversation." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is incorrect. This is a neutral conversation." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="Yes" msg="No Control is correct!" />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Parent says) Dad, Sally and I would like to make some plans for the future. Is this a good time to talk about it?">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect. The farm operator did not give an order to the parent." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is incorrect. The farm operator did not give an order to the parent." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="Yes" msg="No Control is correct! This is a neutral conversation." />
</q>
</questions>
</quiz>
</div>
Discussing Farm Transfer with Son, a Beginning Farmer
John, 52, the farm operator wants his son, Mark, 22, to join him in the operation of the farm. John and his wife, Sally, have spent 30 years on the farm and want to ease up a little.
Attitude: He wants this to be a good experience for his son.
Preparation: He should remember how he felt when he was young. He should think about his son's concern for "having a good life as he and his bride start their marriage."
Timing: Choose a time when father and son can be alone together without working.
Behavior: John should be prepared to listen to his son's concerns and ideas.
Direct Control
View the video to the right to hear the direct control strategy.
Mark: What are you up to, Dad?
John: Well, I am looking at these farm records. I want to see how we can make the farm more productive now that you’ll be with us full time. We need to produce more or reduce expenses so we can have more profit.
Mark: That sounds good. But, Jill and I don’t want to work every minute. When she gets back home from her job in town, we need some time to spend together.
John: Your mom and I were thinking the same thing. After all these years of chores, we want to take some time to do some traveling.
Mark: I need to talk this over with Jill. We have already made plans for Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. We’re going to go camping with friends.
John: Well, I guess we’re going to have to make a schedule for farm work as well as for crop rotation.
Mark: I guess you're right.
Indirect Control
View the video to the right to hear the indirect control strategy.
Mark: What are you doing?
John: I am thinking about how we can make the farm more productive now that there will be three families to provide for. What do you think?
Mark: I can do some custom work--- some baling hay or some combining.
John: That would bring in more income. What other ideas do you have?
Mark: Do you suppose there are any places where we can cut expenses?
John: That’s a good idea. Let’s take a look at these records and see where that might be possible.
No Control
View the video to the right to hear the no control strategy.
Mark: What are you up to, Dad?
John: It’s time to do some planning for next year’s crops. I am looking at this year’s figures.
Mark: This year was a pretty good year, wasn’t it?
John: Yes, but we will need to increase our yields or reduce our expenses since you and Jill will be here with us.
Mark: I guess we should talk about that. I was wondering if there’s going to be enough income for all three families from the farm this year. Jill’s got her job in town, but that won’t be enough.
John: Yes, we should talk about this.
Using What You have Learned
<div class="quiz">
<quiz attempts="3" exam="nonscored">
<intro>
<title>Who Will Get grandpa's Farm? - Scenarios
</title>
<content>
<p><b>Using what You have learned</b></p>
<p>The definitions of the communications strategies are:</p>
<p><b>Direct Control</b>: conversations where one person addresses another person in a confrontational or patronizing manner. Orders are given without concern for the other person.</p>
<p><b>Indirect Control</b>: these are conversations that are more collaborative in nature. If any decision making takes place, it is likely to be shared.</p>
<p><b>No Control</b>: this is a neutral conversation. No solution to the problem is presented.</p>
<p>What type of communication strategy is shown in each of the following statements?<br />
A. Direct Control<br />
B. Indirect Control<br />
C. No Control </p>
</content>
</intro>
<questions>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Son says). Your Mother and I would like to take a vacation. We'd like to go this weekend. You're in charge.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="Yes" msg="Direct Control is correct! The farm operator has given an order to his son." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect." />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Son says). Would you be interested in buying some farm equipment?">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="Yes" msg="Indirect Control is correct! The farm operator is asking the son to share in the purchase of farm equipment." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect. The conversation is not completely neutral" />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Son says). This farm has been in our family for 100 years.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="Yes" msg="This statement implies indirect control, especially if the tone of voice used by the farm operator is authoritative." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect. The conversation is not completely neutral" />
</q>
</questions>
</quiz>
</div>
Farm Operator Talks to Off-Farm Siblings
John, 52, the farm operator, is planning to talk to his father about farm transfer. He knows that if his father agrees to transfer the farm to him, the father will want to include John's brother, Richard, in some way. Richard, 54, lives in a large city about six hours away. He has never expressed any interest in the farm.
Attitude: Siblings who move away from the farm often seem uninterested in the operation of the farm until they realize that their parents won't live forever.
Preparation: John should have some ideas in mind for including Richard in the estate when he meets with his brother. He could ask a lawyer for advice about making an equitable settlement regarding the farm and the parents' assets.
Timing: The best time to discuss estate planning with siblings is while parents are healthy. This will help in reducing some of the emotion that might be involved if either parent is in poor health.
Behavior: John should avoid bringing up past situations when he or his brother might have been favored or treated unfairly. He should explain his position in a logical manner.
Direct Control
View the video to the right to hear the direct control strategy.
Richard: Hi, John. How's it going?
John: All right. Richard, I wanted to talk to you about the farm.
Richard: What do you mean? Is anything wrong?
John: No, but Dad and Mom are getting older, and I want to get the farm transferred while everyone can still talk about it in a reasonable manner.
Richard: Get transferred? What do you mean?
John: You wouldn't be left out. Your share would be the same as mine, but it would be in assets, and not farmland.
Richard: Well, I guess that makes sense. I can’t see myself coming back. What do I get?
John: Mom and Dad have a number of investments, and you would get most of those. Your share might be a little less than mine because I have done more than just planting and harvesting.
Indirect Control
View the video to the right to hear the indirect control strategy.
Richard: Hi, John. How's it going?
John: All right. Richard, I wanted to talk to you about the farm.
Richard: What do you mean? Is anything wrong?
John: No, Everything is fine. I just wanted to get your thoughts about the ownership of the farm after Dad and Mom decide to let go.
Richard: Is this their idea or your idea?
John: It is my idea. I want to talk to them about it, but first I want to see what your feelings are about the farm. Do you see yourself ever coming back and living on the farm?
Richard: I don't think so. I enjoy quitting at 5 o'clock, and I like to take weekends off.
John: That’s what I like about the farm. I can set my own schedule and be my own boss. So, what do you think your share of the farm should be?
No Control
View the video to the right to hear the no control strategy.
Richard: Hi, John. How's it going?
John: Fine. Richard, I am glad you came back this weekend.
Richard: It’s good to be home. Even though I don’t come very often I miss this place.
John: I have been wanting to talk this over with you. What do you think we should do with the farm when Dad and Mom decide they want to quit?
Richard: I have always assumed that you would want to take it over. I don’t see myself coming back and wanting to work it.
John: And I don't see myself leaving either.
Using What You have Learned
<div class="quiz">
<quiz attempts="3" exam="nonscored">
<intro>
<title>Who Will Get grandpa's Farm? - Scenarios
</title>
<content>
<p><b>Using what You have learned</b></p>
<p>The definitions of the communications strategies are:</p>
<p><b>Direct Control</b>: conversations where one person addresses another person in a confrontational or patronizing manner. Orders are given without concern for the other person.</p>
<p><b>Indirect Control</b>: these are conversations that are more collaborative in nature. If any decision making takes place, it is likely to be shared.</p>
<p><b>No Control</b>: this is a neutral conversation. No solution to the problem is presented.</p>
<p>What type of communication strategy is shown in each of the following statements?<br />
A. Direct Control
B. Indirect Control
C. No Control </p>
</content>
</intro>
<questions>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Brother says) I want to talk to the folks about moving to town. Would back me up on that the next time you talk to the folks?">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="Yes" msg="Direct Control is implied! The farm operator wants support from his brother." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is possible. The farm operator is asking for collaboration. A lot will depend on the tone of voice that is used " />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect. This is not a neutral converstation" />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Brother says) Can you remember when we used to bale hay together?">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="Yes" msg="No Control is correct! The farm operator is recalling the past but is not asking for help." />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Brother says) If Sally and I took over the farm how would you feel? ">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="Yes" msg="Indirect Control is correct! The farm operator is asking for an input and taking over the farm could be a sensitive issue between brothers." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect." />
</q>
</questions>
</quiz>
</div>
Farm Operator and Spouse Talk About Their Lack of a Successor
John, 52, farm operator, and Sally, 50, his spouse, are discussing the fact that no one in the family wants to take over the farm.
Attitude: The importance of keeping the farm in the family must be addressed. However, the couple might recognize the need to make a decision that will be more beneficial from a financial perspective.
Preparation: Consider the alternatives such as working with a beginning farmer who wants to become an owner in the future.
Timing: All family members who might be interested should be asked if they want to become more involved such as cash-renting the land. If no one is interested, then no one should object if the farm is sold.
Behavior: Be calm and rational. Allow enough time to think this through carefully.
Direct Control
View the video to the right to hear the direct control strategy.
Sally: What are you doing?
John: Oh, thanks, Sally. I am thinking about the farm. Our son doesn’t want to farm. My sisters don’t want to farm. And I am getting older every day.
Sally: What should we do?
John: You know this farm has been in my family for over 100 years.
Sally: I suppose you’re going to leave it to me alone someday.
John: I suppose we could sell the farm. I don’t want you to be here all alone if I go first.
Sally: I am so glad we had this talk. I am sure that it will bring a good price. You have worked hard to keep it up all these years. You deserve a rest.
Indirect Control
View the video to the right to hear the indirect control strategy.
Sally: What are you doing?
John: I am thinking. This farm has been in our family for over 100 years. I am ready to slow down now, but no one in the family wants to farm anymore.
Sally: I have been thinking about it, too. What will we do?
John: I guess we could talk to the county Extension office. Maybe they know if there are any beginning farmers in the county who want to buy a farm. If we find someone, maybe we should talk it over with our lawyer.
Sally: Could you sleep at night if we sell the farm?
John: I don’t know about that. But, we should leave before we get too old. Some people stay on the farm too long. Then they can’t get around in the winter.
Sally: You have convinced me. Maybe I would like living in town. We would get to see our friends more often.
No Control
View the video to the right to hear the no control strategy.
Sally: What are you doing?
John: Oh, thank you, Sally. I am wondering what will happen to the farm after we are gone. No one in the family wants to farm.
Sally: Does it have to stay in the family forever?
John: Maybe not. I thought it would be the Smith farm forever, but times have changed.
Sally: If you go first, I could hire help and manage for a year or two, but I won't last forever.
John: You are right. We need to start thinking about changes in our health.
Using What You have Learned
<div class="quiz">
<quiz attempts="3" exam="nonscored">
<intro>
<title>Who Will Get grandpa's Farm? - Scenarios
</title>
<content>
<p><b>Using what You have learned</b></p>
<p>The definitions of the communications strategies are:</p>
<p><b>Direct Control</b>: conversations where one person addresses another person in a confrontational or patronizing manner. Orders are given without concern for the other person.</p>
<p><b>Indirect Control</b>: these are conversations that are more collaborative in nature. If any decision making takes place, it is likely to be shared.</p>
<p><b>No Control</b>: this is a neutral conversation. No solution to the problem is presented.</p>
<p>What type of communication strategy is shown in each of the following statements?<br />
A. Direct Control
B. Indirect Control
C. No Control </p>
</content>
</intro>
<questions>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Spouse says) If our daughters and their husbands don't want to farm, I guess we should be thinking about selling the farm.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect. " />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="Yes" msg="Indirect and No Control could both be correct although the statement seems as if the farm operator is asking the spouse to collaborate on selling the farm. " />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="Yes" msg="No Control is incorrect. Indirect and No Control could both be correct although the statement seems as if the farm operator is asking the spouse to collaborate on selling the farm." />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Spouse says) What do you think about going to St. Louis for a ballgame? It could be a little vacation for us.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="Yes" msg="No Control is correct!" />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Spouse says) I heard that one of your neighbors is going to sell some of his land. Do you think we should make a bid?">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="Yes" msg="Indirect Control is correct! Indirect control is implied, especially if the tone of voice used by the farm operator suggests that he is serious about the bid. " />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect." />
</q>
</questions>
</quiz>
</div>
Farm Operator Talks to Parents about Health Issues
John, 52, the farm operator, is worried about the deteriorating health of his father, Ed, who is 72. Ed has been experiencing shortness of breath and has been coughing and wheezing consistently for the past week. This has led to a decrease in activity.
Attitude: Be respectful but concerned.
Preparation: Determine if other family members are aware of Ed's condition. Talk to the family doctor about your concern so that you have a professional's opinion to which you may refer.
Timing: It is best to discuss the concern shortly after noticing the onset. If not treated properly, the father's health problem may become worse.
Behavior: Approach this situation carefully, Always reinforce that the parent is ultimately in charge of his/her own health.
Direct Control
View the video to the right to hear the direct control strategy.
John: Hey, Dad.
Ed: Yes.
John: You haven’t looked too well lately. I think you need to go see a doctor.
Ed: I don’t need to see a doctor. I’ve just been feeling a little tired because of the weather.
John: You are going. I’m taking you to see the doctor tomorrow.
Indirect Control
View the video to the right to hear the indirect control strategy.
John: Hey, Dad?
Ed:Yes.
John: I have been noticing that you are short of breath a lot lately.
Ed: It's just my allergies. It will pass.
John: You may be right. I know you would feel better if you are checked by your own doctor.
Ed: I don't need to see a doctor. I can take care of myself.
John: I know that you can take of yourself. But, I would feel better if you went to see a doctor. And, I think that whatever you have, you will get over it faster than just letting it take care of itself.
Ed: All right. But, I will do what I think is right after I see a doctor.
John: I’ve got the phone number in the house. Let’s go make an appointment while we are thinking about it.
No Control
View the video to the right to hear the no control strategy.
John: Hey, Dad?
Ed: Yes.
John: Dad, you haven't sounded very well lately. I'm worried about your breathing.
Ed: It's just allergies. It will pass.
John: I'd like you to see the doctor about it.
Ed: I don’t need to see a doctor. I can take of myself.
John: Okay, but I would feel better if you went and saw the doctor.
Using What You have Learned
<div class="quiz">
<quiz attempts="3" exam="nonscored">
<intro>
<title>Who Will Get grandpa's Farm? - Scenarios
</title>
<content>
<p><b>Using what You have learned</b></p>
<p>The definitions of the communications strategies are:</p>
<p><b>Direct Control</b>: conversations where one person addresses another person in a confrontational or patronizing manner. Orders are given without concern for the other person.</p>
<p><b>Indirect Control</b>: these are conversations that are more collaborative in nature. If any decision making takes place, it is likely to be shared.</p>
<p><b>No Control</b>: this is a neutral conversation. No solution to the problem is presented.</p>
<p>What type of communication strategy is shown in each of the following statements?<br />
A. Direct Control
B. Indirect Control
C. No Control </p>
</content>
</intro>
<questions>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Parent says) Dad, are you remembering to take your medicine? We have some busy days ahead.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect. " />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="Yes" msg="Indirect Control is implied. The farm operator reminds his father to take his medication because there is a lot of hard work in the future." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is possible. This could be a neutral remark." />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Parent says) How would you like to take a day off? We seem to be caught up.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="Yes" msg="No Control is correct!" />
</q>
<q name="(Farm Operator to Parent says) Dad I think it would be best if you didn't go to the field with us. You look a little worn down. We can manage without you.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="Yes" msg="Direct Control is implied." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is possible. The farm operator did not give an order to his father, but it is clear what his intention is." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect." />
</q>
</questions>
</quiz>
</div>
Remaining Spouse Talks to Son about Selling the Farm
Three years later, the farm is no longer as profitable as it once was. Sally, now widowed, is having a difficult time maintaining the daily operations of the farm. Her son helps, but it is obvious that he is not interested in taking full responsibility. Sally would like to make a change while she is still in good health.
Attitude: This may be a sensitive topic if the son feels emotionally tied to the farm where he grew up.
Preparation: Sally should be knowledgeable about all the farm's income and expenses for the last few years so she can make the case that the farm is losing money.
Timing: Sally should initiate this conversation while she is still healthy and able to manage her finances.
Behavior: Sally should be sure to communicate about what she wants and will need in order to live comfortably.
Direct Control
View the video to the right to hear the direct control strategy.
Sally: I’ve been thinking about selling the farm.
Mark: Why would you do that, Mom? I am always available to help out.
Sally: I know you are. But, when you are through working for the Co-op, there isn’t enough time left for the farm.
Mark: This is our family home. Dad made this farm what it is. Why do you think that you should sell it to somebody else?
Sally: I have made up my mind. I have a potential buyer and I plan to sign the papers next week.
Mark: Why didn't you give me a chance to buy the farm? I hope you'll reconsider.
Indirect Control
View the video to the right to hear the indirect control strategy.
Sally: I am interesting in selling the farm, and I wanted to know what you thought.
Mark: Why would you do that, Mom? I am always available to help out.
Sally: Yes, I know you are, but the farm is losing money, and the workload is heavy.
Mark: Mom, I know this is a difficult decision for you. After all, this is our family's home.
Sally: I know. But, the farm is losing money every month. I have thought it over, and I want to include you in the process.
No Control
View the video to the right to hear the no control strategy.
Sally: I am interested in selling the farm.
Mark: Why would you do that? I am always available to help out.
Sally: I know. But, I think it is the best thing for me under the circumstances. I don’t know how to make the farm more profitable. A potential buyer has contacted me, and it’s an offer that is too good to pass up.
Mark: I guess you are right. I wish there was a way for me to buy the farm in the future.
Using What You have Learned
<div class="quiz">
<quiz attempts="3" exam="nonscored">
<intro>
<title>Who Will Get grandpa's Farm? - Scenarios
</title>
<content>
<p><b>Using what You have learned</b></p>
<p>The definitions of the communications strategies are:</p>
<p><b>Direct Control</b>: conversations where one person addresses another person in a confrontational or patronizing manner. Orders are given without concern for the other person.</p>
<p><b>Indirect Control</b>: these are conversations that are more collaborative in nature. If any decision making takes place, it is likely to be shared.</p>
<p><b>No Control</b>: this is a neutral conversation. No solution to the problem is presented.</p>
<p>What type of communication strategy is shown in each of the following statements?<br />
A. Direct Control
B. Indirect Control
C. No Control </p>
</content>
</intro>
<questions>
<q name="(Mother to Son). I am going to sell some of the cattle. It is too much work for me.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="Yes" msg="Direct Control is implied. " />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is possible." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is incorrect." />
</q>
<q name="(Mother to Son). am going to talk to your sister about my selling the farm. I want to know if they would miss coming to the farm each summer.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="Yes" msg="Direct Control is implied." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is possible." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="no" msg="No Control is correct!" />
</q>
<q name="(Mother to Son). I really love the farm. But, it is not the same since your father is gone.">
<a type="radio" label="Direct Control" correct="no" msg="Direct Control is incorrect." />
<a type="radio" label="Indirect Control" correct="no" msg="Indirect Control is possible." />
<a type="radio" label="No Control" correct="Yes" msg="No Control is a possibility. It depends on the tone of voice used by the remaining spouse." />
</q>
</questions>
</quiz>
</div>
Presentation Guide
Directions for introducing the learning lesson in an educational (non profit) setting.
This Presentation Guide (PowerPoint file) can be used to explain the lesson, Who Will Get Grandpa's Farm? Communicating about Farm Transfer. It can be used as an introduction to the lesson or as a program by itself. It will be most effective if the lesson can be viewed because the lesson has videos and interactive quizzes (labeled as Using What You Learned). However, the Presentation Guide clearly explains Paternalism and Autonomy Theory, Politeness Theory, and the three strategies of communicating (direct control, indirect control, and no control).
Click Presentation Guide to download the file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click View to read all the FAQs for Who Will Get Grandpa's Farm?
Close the new window that is opened to return to "Who Will Get Grandpa's Farm?"
Resources
Links for Communicating about Farm Transfer
A Retirement Estimator for Farm Families
This site was also developed at Purdue University. The purpose is to help farm families determine their financial ability to retire. Users are asked to enter information on their assets and liabilities. They can print the worksheet. No information is stored when you exit the program.
This is a free service that identifies federal and state assistance programs for older Americans. The service was created by the National Council on Aging.
Financial Security in Later Life
This site was developed by USDA/CSREES. The purpose is to provide online educational programs for consumers and educators. Programs focus on saving, investing, and planning long-term care and retirement.
Or phone 1-800-633-4227. In general, a citizen of the U.S. or permanent resident is eligible for Medicare at age 65.
Another resource is the National Farm Transfer Network at 1-800-447-1895 or http://www.extension.iastate.edu/nftn 20 states have these programs.
Planning for a Secure Retirement
This site was developed at Purdue University. It focuses on calculating life expectancy, estimating expenses in retirement, Social Security, evaluating your employer retirement plan, starting an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), and other information to help prepare for retirement.
Social Security Administration
Or phone 1-800-772-1213. The site provides complete information about eligibility for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.
Lesson Credits
Content Development by:
Sharon DeVaney, Ph.D., Professor,
Consumer Sciences and Retailing, Purdue University,
812 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2060,
Phone: 765-494-8300,
Email: sdevaney@purdue.edu
Consultant:
Melanie Morgan, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Department of Communications Purdue University
Site Development by:
Purdue University
Agriculture Information Technology (AgIT)
Information Technology at Purdue (ITap)
National eXtension Initiative
Video Production by:
Television and Multimedia Production Services, ITaP, Purdue University
Actors
Everett Gruber (Ed), Larry Gruber (John), Pamela White (Sally), Steve Dunlop (Richard), and Andrew Rhoda (Mark).
Filmed at Everett Gruber's family farm, near Delphi, Indiana.
Funded by
National Endowment for Financial Education Project #006-02-2000