CFAES is known for cultivating future agricultural leaders. Among them is Ryanna Tietje, a 2024 graduate whose undergraduate research has provided pivotal insights into the critical issue of farm succession planning.
Guided by Margaret Jodlowski, an assistant professor in the CFAES Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics, Tietje investigated the intricate process of farm transitions. Her personal connection to the subject, stemming from her family’s farm in northwest Ohio, provided a unique perspective on the challenges faced by farming families during this critical period.
Tietje’s research, supported by OSU Extension educators with expertise in farm succession and conducted through Extension’s Farm Financial Management and Policy Institute, focused on communication barriers, the presence of succession plans, and farms’ financial outcomes.
“The future of our farm and my parents’ retirement required navigating emotional conversations,” Tietje explained. “My goal was to identify ways to facilitate smoother transitions for both retiring and incoming generations.”
Jodlowski highlighted the emotional obstacles for farmers, particularly the difficulty of relinquishing control, which can impede the integration of the next generation.
“For many farmers, their identity is deeply linked with their land, making the handover not just a practical but also an emotional challenge,” Jodlowski said.
Tietje’s dedication led to the development of a survey that collected data from farm operators about their current succession planning, as well as their future expectations and current financial situations. This data is invaluable for Extension programming and is particularly noteworthy in Ohio, where such research has been scarce.
David Marrison, Extension field specialist, farm management, sees Tietje’s data as a key contribution for advancing and building on the work Extension does to support farm succession efforts.
“Ryanna’s meticulous attention to detail for Ohio farmers is impressive,” Jodlowski said. “Her primary data collection is a commendable achievement for undergraduate research.”
With surveys from 186 farmers across 39 counties, Tietje overcame the challenge of incentivizing participation. Her research has broadened her academic scope and opened doors for her future endeavors. As a farm foundation cultivator, she presented her project at the Farm Foundation Roundtable in Hawaii, a significant academic accomplishment.
Tietje’s story is a testament to the opportunities for undergraduate engagement within CFAES, and the importance of addressing agricultural challenges through research and education. Her work exemplifies CFAES’ commitment to educational engagement and the development of future agricultural leaders.