Robert Misko with his children and grandchildren. From left to right: Courtney Misko, Robert Misko, Brittany Busch, Robbie Misko, Jaxon Busch (green shirt) and Torin Busch (blue shirt). Missing is Leifa Misko.

Lifelong learning on the Misko farm

Prairie Farms: Knowledge and efficiency are key for this Manitoba farm operation

The Prairie Farms feature is an ongoing series that highlights western Canadian producers and their farm operations. These producer and farm profiles will share the strategies, tips and experiences that have helped Prairie farmers be successful. Along with crop production strategies, this Q-and-A series will look at the personalities and lifestyles of farmers across Western […] Read more

Photo: skynesher/istock/getty images

Why power of attorney is important

For older farmers, it can provide financial protection and peace of mind as they age

Recently a friend was teary as she told me about a sudden change in her mom’s health. When I asked if she had power of attorney for her mother, her answer was a resounding “no way.” Her mom was procrastinating on seeing a lawyer to draw up necessary documents to protect her future. Are you […] Read more


Parents can pass farmland down to the next generation at any value between book value and market value.

How best to pass on the farm and provide for a child living with a disability

Farm Financial Planner: There are several solutions for a complicated situation

Steve, 62, and Sarah, 60, have run a successful farming operation in western Manitoba for the last 35 years. The farm consists of personally held farm assets and seven quarter sections of cropland. Steve and Sarah have two sons. Jared is 32 and Jack is 30 years old. Jared has been working on the farm […] Read more

(Video screengrab from University of Guelph/OAC video via YouTube)

OAC to offer new master’s program in plant agriculture

New program would run alongside research-based degrees

Ontario Agricultural College is seeking approvals to offer a new master’s degree in plant agriculture, which would designate plant science professionals operating at a grad-school level but not on the traditional research-based path. OAC said Wednesday its proposed new “master of plant agriculture” (MPAg) program would allow recent graduates and professionals to “quickly upgrade education […] Read more


Photo: StockSeller_ukr/istock/getty images

Honest communication: The key for farm succession

Unsure of your future on the family farm? Helping Dad share his emotions can achieve clarity for all

The green of spring and summer in this country goes by far too quickly. Our eldest granddaughter turned six two months ago, which means I have just 12 summers left before she launches at 18. Yes, time is going by, and many farms may share this situation. As Mom and Dad age on the farm, […] Read more

University of Saskatchewan student and longtime 4-Her Kadence Johnson has discovered the Next Step Club, a 4-H club for post-secondary students wishing to learn adult skills. (Alberta Farmer photos by Jeff Melchior)

At Ag in Motion: 4-H’ers get bigger-picture view of ag industry

Saskatchewan teens have fun at leading ag show

Whether they were there to learn about leadership, careers in agriculture or just hang out with friends, some happy young people from Saskatchewan 4-H came out in force to Ag in Motion on Wednesday. Shelby Longworth, the provincial programs manager for 4-H Saskatchewan, said the group of older teens wanted to attend for a diverse […] Read more



Martha would like to retire next year.
However, if she does that, she fears
she might run out of money one day.
Estimating income for her long life
ahead is a challenge.

Options for a widow to retire and keep the farm in the family

The farm continues, Mom’s retirement is secure and assets provided for non-farming kids

Martha, as we’ll call her, is a 51-year-old widow. She owns 3,100 acres in southeastern Manitoba. Her daughter, who we’ll call Alice, is 30. Alice wants to continue the family farm, although her siblings, a brother and a sister, want to continue with their town jobs. Planning this generational transfer is complex. Martha’s personally held […] Read more


Asking for higher compensation can be difficult, and arguments arise when what you think you need is perceived by your employer, the farm parents, as a want.

How to ask for better compensation on the farm

Talking about money can be less stressful when you start with a “reality check” of what you need

Young farm families have many expectations to manage as they work on farms as employees, raise small children and juggle time to generate off-farm revenue. Asking for higher compensation can be difficult, and arguments arise when what you think you need is perceived by your employer, the farm parents, as a want. Talking about money […] Read more

Many farm owners may avoid making wills because they want to avoid family conflict. Having a third party facilitate this discussion can help you get harmony through understanding.

Froese: Do you have a will?

If you’re a younger farmer, there’s a good chance you don’t. Here are some tips to help you get started

An Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada report, “Succession Planning on Canadian Farms,” refers to a 2019 Farm Financial Survey by Statistics Canada that showed most of the surveyed farm owners (81 per cent) had a will in place. However, the percentage was much smaller (58 per cent) for farmer owners under 40 years of age. Why […] Read more