WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Nearly 300 million acres of U.S. agricultural land are projected to change hands in the coming decades, raising major questions about succession, stability, and the long-term future of rural communities.
American Farmland Trust (AFT) is ramping up efforts to support producers through this transition, helping families navigate the often-complex process of transferring farms and ranches to the next generation. Jerry Cosgrove, AFT’s Farm Legacy Director and Senior Advisor, joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss why land transfer is such a critical issue.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Cosgrove highlighted the need for thoughtful planning to maintain productive farmland, protect family operations, and ensure younger producers have opportunities to enter the industry. He also outlined AFT’s work to assist farmers and ranchers in preparing for generational transfer—from providing resources and technical support to helping families map out long-term goals.
Cosgrove emphasized the importance of getting a jump-start on estate planning and encouraged landowners to begin considering their options, documenting their wishes, and engaging family members in open conversations about succession.
Experts estimate the flooding from Hurricane Helene caused more than $1.3 billion in damage to Tennessee agriculture.
September 09, 2025 11:30 AM
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As the Trump Administration seeks out new global trade partnerships, Congress is considering more support for farmers, which comes as the Federal Reserve warns that farmers need a safety net.
September 08, 2025 11:47 AM
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Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins will travel to Europe and Asia to seek new trade partnerships for U.S. crops after China reduced imports due to tariffs.
September 08, 2025 11:45 AM
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The $221 million will help farmers and ranchers cover losses from Hurricane Helene that USDA programs didn’t cover. They’ll focus on infrastructure, markets, timber, and future economic losses.
September 05, 2025 05:09 PM
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Co-Bank Lead Dairy Economist, Corey Geiger, joined us on Friday’s
Market Day Report for a further look at the drop in replacement heifers and the trend’s longterm impact on dairy producers and cattle prices.
September 05, 2025 12:40 PM
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The agriculture workforce’s struggles with labor issues in recent years have opened the door to more automation and integration of artificial intelligence (AI).
September 05, 2025 11:58 AM
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FarmHER + RanchHER host Kirbe Schnoor joined us on Market Day Report to talk about the show’s seventh season, which premieres Thursday night only on RFD-TV!
September 04, 2025 12:40 PM
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The trustees’ 2025 annual report, released June 18, cited a law enacted this year as the primary reason why the funds are projected to run out a year earlier than previously projected.
August 26, 2025 10:50 AM
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August 21, 2025 11:22 AM
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