MIFarmLink November Newsletter

November brings a time of gratitude and reflection. As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of the many ways our community helps keep Michigan’s farmland thriving.

Big news from the MIFarmLink team — we’ve officially made it big! 🎉 Our statewide expansion and new partnership with the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) caught the attention of NPR, where we were recently featured for our work connecting farmers and landowners across Michigan. This milestone marks an exciting step forward in our mission to keep Michigan farmland in production and strengthen the next generation of farmers.

👉 Read or listen to the story here: NPR Feature on MIFarmLink

Thank you for being part of the MIFarmLink community — together, we’re growing something special.

Lastly, this month, we’re also excited to launch our Giving Tuesday campaign! It’s a chance to support MIFarmLink’s work connecting farmers, landowners, and the next generation of growers across the state. More details are coming below—stay tuned for ways to join us in keeping Michigan’s farmland in farming. 🍁

Sincerely,

Jill and the MIFarmLink Team

(Team MIFarmLink, #mifarmlinker)

This Giving Tuesday, join us in protecting and securing Michigan’s agricultural future. Starting Friday, November 28, MIFarmLink’s Giving Tuesday campaign officially opens. We are setting a goal to raise $5,000 to help connect more farmers and landowners across Michigan.

Your support helps our team reach new communities, feature more available farmland, and grow opportunities for the next generation of Michigan farmers.

Stay tuned for the launch and be one of the first to give. Together, we can keep Michigan farmland in farming for generations to come.

Do you know someone passionate about helping Michigan’s farmers and farmland thrive? MIFarmLink is currently seeking Regional Representatives to help spread the word about our program statewide! Regional Reps serve as local connectors—sharing MIFarmLink resources, building relationships with farmers and landowners, and helping communities understand how farmland transition can benefit everyone. It’s a great opportunity for Conservation District staff or community members who care deeply about keeping land in agriculture and supporting the next generation of farmers. Apply here.

Each month we highlight a farm that’s available to lease or purchase.

This month’s featured property is Ocqueoc Farm, a 119-acre family farm in northern Michigan with 68 tillable acres of productive Onaway fine sandy loam. The land has a rich history of growing corn, wheat, beans, hay, and sunflowers, and the owner hopes to see it continue thriving for future generations.

Located just outside Ocqueoc, the property is available for a 4–5 year lease with negotiable terms. It’s a wonderful opportunity for a farmer looking to grow in northern Michigan while caring for the land’s long legacy.

Interested? Create a profile to communicate with the farm/farmer.

68 acres available in Presque Isle County | MIFarmLink

Each month we highlight a farmer looking to connect to land.

Bradley and his wife are first-generation farmers from Ohio with a passion for regenerative livestock farming. They are looking to relocate to Michigan and find a long-term lease or partnership opportunity to grow their pastured poultry and livestock operation. With experience raising poultry, pigs, lambs, goats, and cattle, they are eager to bring their skills and sustainable practices to the right farm opportunity.

Know of available land? Help farmers like them find the right opportunity at mifarmlink.org.

Bradley | MIFarmLink

Mark your calendars! The MACD 2025 Annual Conference is coming up December 8–10 at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire. This year’s theme, “Stewardship in Changing Times — Building Resilience, Together,” celebrates the strength and collaboration of Michigan’s conservation community. With more than 70 speakers, engaging breakout sessions, and plenty of networking opportunities, this event is the perfect chance to connect, learn, and recharge for the year ahead. Don’t miss the Partner Luncheon, silent auction, and evening socials—it’s shaping up to be an inspiring few days. Register today to secure your spot!

• Nov. 12th- Organic Seed Alliance Presents: 2025 Midwest Organic Seed Summit, Webinar
• Nov. 12th- Unconventional Fruit Working Group: Organic Educational Materials Needs Discussion, Webinar
• Nov. 13th- Monthly Drop-in Organic Farming Q & A, Webinar
• Nov. 13th- For Sale By Owner, Seller Financing & Other Alternative Options, Webinar
• Nov. 15th- Scholarship Deadline for the 2026 MSU Organic Farmer Training Program
• Nov. 18th- Farm Accounting Software Options Workshop, St. Johns, MI
• Nov. 20th- Your Professional Team: Real Estate Agent, Lender, Attorney, Webinar
• Nov. 24th- MIFarmLink Quarterly Advisory Committee Meeting, Webinar
• Nov. 28th to Dec. 2nd- MIFarmLink Giving Tuesday Campaign
• Dec. 4th- Monthly Drop-in Organic Farming Q & A, Webinar
• Dec. 8th to Dec. 10th- MACD Conference, Bellaire, Michigan
• Dec. 9th- Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable & Farm Market EXPO, Grand Rapids, MI
• January- Farm Transition Course 2026, Online Courses
• Jan. 10th- MOFFA Organic Intensives 2026, East Lansing, MI
• Jan. 22nd- MIFarmLink Lunch and Learn, Webinar
• Feb 10th- Take Root Conference, Lansing, MI

We’re thrilled to be part of the new Beginning Farmer Curriculum, a hands-on, learn-by-doing resource developed by an amazing team of farmer educators. From soil health to farm finances, this guide empowers new farmers to explore, experiment, and grow with confidence. Check it out for free here.