March 2026
Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers
An estimated 41% of agricultural land in the United States is projected to change hands by 2035. A shift that presents both challenges and opportunities for the future of farming.
To help address this transition, American Farmland Trust developed the Land Transfer Navigators (LTN) program, with support from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). This national initiative equips practitioners (Navigators), with the tools and training needed to support equitable farm and ranch transfers, ensuring both retiring and aspiring producers can succeed.
Since 2024, Yolo Land Trust Executive Director John Currey has been participating in the program as a Navigator. Each year, he joins a national cohort for in-depth training focused on succession planning, land access, equitable land transfer, and guiding families through the complex process of transferring agricultural land
This year, the cohort convened in Sacramento for a three-day intensive workshop, bringing the program right to our region. Which created a meaningful opportunity to showcase the strength and innovation of agriculture in Yolo County.
Taking on the role of “tour guide” on the drive from Sacramento to Guinda, John led fellow Navigators on a visit to Full Belly Farm. There, participants heard directly from farmers Paul Muller, Dru Rivers, and their son Amon about their approach to farming, succession, and creating space for the next generation.
“It was a great experience to hear how the next generation was encouraged and given permission to pursue their passions,” John shared, “and to incorporate new ideas into the business. Together, they offered valuable lessons from their own succession planning journey.”
Paul and Dru also emphasized the importance of a stable, year-round workforce to sustain an organic farming operation. As part of that commitment, they are helping shepherd an effort to develop permanent, affordable housing for agricultural workers in Yolo County. Casa Agraria, is a pilot project Paul is involved with in the Capay Valley that provides three farmworker families with secure, affordable homes and access to land.
In addition to the farm visit, John shared insights on farmland conservation, regional agriculture, and water resources. He highlighted Yolo Land Trust’s work with local agencies to protect farmland through agricultural mitigation programs.
“Mitigation is unique in much of the nation,” John noted. “It’s not common for jurisdictions to require developers to offset their impacts by funding permanent conservation easements on farmland equal to or better than what is lost.”
The remainder of the workshop focused on strengthening skills essential to this work, from advancing land access for beginning farmers to navigating the personal dynamics of family succession planning.
By the end of the four-year LTN program, Navigators will be equipped with the training, resources, and national network needed to successfully guide landowners through transitions that keep farmland in agriculture.
The ultimate measure of success is clear: ensuring that farmland remains productive and that the next generation of farmers can thrive. Here in Yolo County—and across the country—that future depends on thoughtful planning and strong support for those who steward the land.
If you have questions about succession planning for your farm or ranch, we encourage you to connect with John Currey, 530-662-1110.
