Beginning Farmer & Land Access
Farm Land Link Program Guide
A guide to farm land link programs. It explains how these programs connect landowners and farmers and what to prepare before joining one. Fill it out in pencil so it is easy to update.
GuideBeginning Farmer & Land AccessFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Search for a program in your state
- Learn who the program serves
- Write a short farmer profile
- Prepare a land wish list
- Gather references
- Review matches carefully
- Visit potential properties
- Have agreements reviewed by an attorney
- Record each contact made
How to use this guide
Pin it up in the shop or barn. The numbered steps are a short reminder, and the notes lines are for details specific to your operation.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and USDA.
For more in this area, see the farm finance explained. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Five Generations of Farmers Struggle to Keep Family Land; Sixth Generation Saves Farm by Selling Pumpkin Selfies to People Who Think Milk Comes From Walmart, and agribusiness farm stories.