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What We Have Learned from Our Farm Transfer Workshops. Bob Parsons University of Vermont. Getting Started . Define your program Lots of topics so identify what you are going to do Coordinate with speakers Repetition is OK Include attorney & specialists.
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What We Have Learned from Our Farm Transfer Workshops Bob Parsons University of Vermont UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006
Getting Started • Define your program • Lots of topics so identify what you are going to do • Coordinate with speakers • Repetition is OK • Include attorney & specialists UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006
Consider Presentation Style • Involve the audience - Marsha • Plan exercises that promote discussion • Use humor to take the edge off • This is a serious topic – so lets make it fun • Use lots of “ War Stories” • Examples - Bonanza UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006
Things to Consider in the Agenda • Start off with family communication • Use family councilors, Family Living specialists • Case studies – Get people to talk • Make use of meals as chance to talk • Larger tables work for interaction • Smaller tables keeps the family alone UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006
Be Objective and Balanced on Content • Example – Conservation easements • Speakers for land trusts present one side • Are you presenting the other side? • Other issues: Trusts, business organizations, etc. • Make sure you are educating, not promoting! UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006
Use Specialists, Especially an Attorney • We are educators – not specialists • Someone with speaking skills and knows Ag • Common language in front of a group • Watch for “fishing for clients” • Anticipate questions on how to locate a knowledgeable professional UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006 UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006
Use Farmer Panels • Testimonials are great tools • Get view of parent, child, in-law • Stories of success and failure • What worked and what didn’t • What would you do differently • Provide likely questions that may come up • Incentive that the task can be accomplished UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006
Fine Points to End the Workshop • End on an upbeat note • Provide participants with reading and reference material • Who to contact for assistance • Hand out your card! • Let them know “They can do it!” They are not alone and help available! UNH and UVM Cooperative Extension, 2006