Securing the Future of Farmland
Across the Pacific Northwest, farmland is entering a period of generational transition. With 41% of agricultural land expected to change hands by 2035, the decisions made today will shape whether that land remains in farming tomorrow.
That’s why Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland is sharing resources like the Pacific Northwest Land Transfer Navigator Program, led by American Farmland Trust in partnership with USDA-NRCS. The program provides free, confidential support to farmers, ranchers, and landowners as they plan for succession, transfer land, or secure the long-term future of their operations.
Pacific Northwest Land Transfer Navigator Program
In response to this growing need, American Farmland Trust (AFT) has trained succession and land transfer Navigators across the region who offer one-on-one support as you navigate your next steps. Navigators work with farmers, ranchers, producers, and landowners throughout the Pacific Northwest who are transitioning away from full-time production or taking steps to ensure the future of their farm or ranch.
Whether you’ve already begun the process or aren’t sure where to start, Navigators are available to help you move forward.
Navigators can help you:
Access information and planning resources, including succession guides, retirement and estate planning tools, creative lease options, and guidance on how to start the conversation
Set goals and identify next steps in your planning process
Prepare for conversations with family members and business partners
Connect with attorneys, business advisors, and other agricultural experts
Follow through on your plans and maintain progress through regular check-ins
If you’re interested in participating, please fill out the following form and one of AFT’s trained Navigators will get back to you as soon as possible.
Planning for the future can feel daunting, and the succession process often takes years. Having support from experienced agricultural professionals can make all the difference.
You can also learn more about succession, land transfer, and next steps for your farm business and farmland on American Farmland Trust’s AFT's PNW website.
About American Farmland Trust
American Farmland Trust works to protect the land that sustains us. Their mission is to save farmland, promote healthy farming practices, and keep farmers on the land.
They focus on three core areas:
Land — Advancing farmland protection through conservation easements, smart growth strategies, and policies that make preservation possible.
Practices — Supporting farming methods that build soil health, including cover crops, crop rotations, no-till, and precision agriculture.
People — Helping farmers and ranchers stay in business today while attracting and supporting the next generation of agricultural stewards.
Together, these efforts help ensure farmland remains productive, the environment stays resilient, and agricultural communities remain strong for generations to come.