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Unit 1: Planning and Business Development

Kansas State Extension Specialist Rhonda Janke notes a number of barriers to whole farm planning. As you read through this list, think about how you might address these types of issues and concerns in your work with farmers and ranchers.

Farmers may resist planning because they:

• don’t see the need for a written plan.

• think it is too time consuming or difficult.

• are uncertain about the future.

• are afraid of not meeting their goals.

• are unclear about how to write a plan.

• feel more productive “doing” and don’t take time to reflect and write down plans.

• worry it may stir up family disagreements.

• may have many landlords or work in different states or counties, which makes collaborative planning difficult if not impossible.

• are concerned about greater control by bankers or the government if plans are written down.

• resist change.

• lack the information to make realistic projections and decisions.

• fear regulation now or in the future.