High grain prices, though great for most farmers, can make it a challenge for a younger farmer looking to get into the business. That's the observation of one Farm Business Talk member. "I want to farm for a living, but how can a young farmer get started with prices so high?" he asks.

FarmStart, a new seed capital program, doesn't actually own a stake in new businesses, as a true venture capitalist would. But it requires no down payment or equity for five-year loans up to $50,000 -- if the business cash flows and seems to have a good chance of succeeding.

Sign up for the Farmers for the Future monthly e-mail newsletter, full of tips and information for new farmers. It's free for Agriculture Online members. Membership is also free.

"Land represents about 80% of all the wealth in production agriculture," writes Successful Farming Editor-in-Chief Loren Kruse. "In these times of significantly higher crop prices, land seems to attract about 80% of our talk and emotion, too."

Successfully transferring a farm from the older to younger generation begins with a clear vision of the future and an understanding of each other's values, says John Baker, administrator of Iowa State University's Beginning Farmer Center. He shares 12 steps to a successful succession.

Semi-retired farmer and market analyst Roy Smith reflects on his early years as a farmer. Over the years, he and his wife met with the need for sacrifice, off-farm income and a break or two. What he learned still carries a message for young and beginning farmers.

Veteran farmer Brent Olson recently shared a few lessons he's paid to learn.

Ensuring the financial well-being of your parents can be a tough job, but as your parents (and you!) age, it becomes increasingly important to broach the difficult subject of financial planning. In order to plan your own finances efficiently, you need to know about your parents' estate and its disposition. Learn which are the most important matters to discuss with your parents, and get some tips for making the conversation a little easier.

The Farm Credit System Foundation, Inc., is proud to sponsor Farmers for the Future, which provides young and beginning farmers with resources to help them succeed.