Problem submitted by C.B. , Illinois

For over 15 years, my two brothers and I have worked with our dad, farming land we rent from him, as well as land we each own independently. Like lots of other farmers, we’ve also complicated the situation by owning equipment separately and by sharing it when needed.

Basically, we help each other. But labor sharing isn’t always equal (a source of friction) because each of us is a part-time farmer with a full-time job off the farm.

This has worked OK over the years except (and I’m sure you see this coming) Dad’s health is now starting to fail. My brothers and I know it won’t be long before he won’t be able to farm anymore.