Farm Succession Planning & Generational Transition for Dairy Producers

Mar 21

Why Leadership, Outside Experience, and Honest Conversations Matter in Farm Transitions

Peggy Coffeen revisits a powerful conversation with Michigan dairyman Tommy Oesch of Swisslane Farms about one of the most important—and often most difficult—topics facing farm families today: generational transition.

Passing a dairy operation from one generation to the next involves more than transferring ownership. It requires clear communication, shared leadership, and a willingness from both generations to navigate change together.

Tommy’s experience offers practical insight for families preparing for their own transition journeys.

Transition Planning Is Often the Hardest Part of Farming

Every dairy farm carries more than animals and land—it carries family legacy.

Yet succession planning remains one of the most challenging conversations for many farm families. Different generations often view the transition process differently. Senior leaders may struggle with stepping away from management roles, while younger generations may feel uncertain about when or how to step forward.

Without clear communication and structured planning, these differences can stall progress.

Outside Experience Strengthens Future Farm Leaders

One of the key lessons Tommy shares is the value of gaining experience outside the family farm.

After returning home from college, Tommy initially struggled to find his place within the existing management structure. Ultimately, he chose to leave the farm temporarily to gain broader experience in the dairy industry.

That time away helped him develop management skills, industry perspective, and leadership confidence—assets that proved invaluable when he eventually returned to the family operation.

For many next-generation farmers, outside experience provides the tools needed to return to the farm as stronger leaders.

Transition Requires Commitment from Both Generations

Successful succession planning depends on cooperation between generations.

Senior generations must be willing to gradually release management responsibilities and allow younger leaders to learn through experience—even when mistakes happen.

At the same time, the next generation must demonstrate commitment, initiative, and a willingness to take on increasing responsibility.

Tommy emphasizes that mistakes are an unavoidable part of leadership development. Learning through real-world decisions is one of the most effective ways new leaders grow into their roles.

Advisors Can Help Families Build a Clear Plan

Recognizing the complexity of farm transitions, Tommy’s family eventually worked with advisors to create a structured succession plan.

Legal experts, consultants, and mediators helped guide discussions around management roles, ownership structure, and long-term business strategy.

Outside advisors often play an important role in helping families move difficult conversations forward and ensuring the transition process remains focused on the long-term health of both the business and the family.

Learning More at the Farm Forward Conference

These topics will take center stage at the Farm Forward Conference, hosted by the Uplevel Dairy Podcast on March 27, 2026, at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Newton, Wisconsin.

The event will feature industry experts including:

Elaine Froese, Family Farm Transition Coach
Kristy Pagel, Leading Edge Consulting
Will McKinley, Menn Law
Steve Bodart, Agri Growth Solutions

Together, these speakers will provide practical strategies for farm families navigating generational transition, leadership development, and succession planning.

Generational transition is rarely simple, but it is essential for the long-term success of family farms. Successful transitions require honest conversations, willingness to learn, and a shared commitment to protecting the farm’s future. When both generations work together and seek guidance from experienced advisors, farm families can create a clear path forward for the next generation.

🎧 To hear the full conversation with Tommy Oesch, tune in to the Uplevel Dairy Podcast.

To hear the complete discussion, stream now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or watch the full conversation on YouTube.