MIFarmLink August Newsletter
Big Move in October!
This October, MIFarmLink will be taking an exciting next step, transitioning to the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) and becoming a statewide program. This move will help us continue building connections between farmland owners and the next generation of farmers across Michigan.
We are deeply grateful to the Washtenaw County Conservation District and Ottawa County for their dedication and support in helping MIFarmLink grow from a local initiative into a resource for the entire state.
We can’t wait to see what this new chapter brings and look forward to continuing to serve Michigan’s farming community with the same heart and purpose that got us here.
Become a Regional Representative!
MIFarmLink is looking for volunteer Regional Representatives to help share our mission and connect farmers and landowners across Michigan. Regional Reps represent MIFarmLink in their communities by distributing outreach materials, sharing resources, and engaging with farmers, landowners, and local partners. This volunteer role includes a virtual meeting once a month and offers a great way to support farmland preservation and land access in your region. Apply through the form linked here.
Join our Advisory Committee!
MIFarmLink is seeking passionate volunteers to join our Advisory Committee and help guide our work to connect landowners with the next generation of Michigan farmers. Committee members meet virtually once a month and bring expertise in areas such as farming, conservation, law, fundraising, real estate, and more. If you care about farmland preservation, land access, and the future of Michigan agriculture, we encourage you to apply through this form.
Volunteer with Us!
MIFarmLink is looking for volunteers to help grow our statewide farmland linking program! Whether you’re a college student seeking internship credit or an industry professional donating your skills, your time can make a big impact. From website development and outreach to grant writing and fundraising, there’s a place for you on our team—just 5–10 hours a week, with flexible, virtual check-ins. Apply through this form.
Facing Farmland Hurdles? We Want to Hear From You
MIFarmLink and MSU Extension are teaming up on a SARE-funded research project to better understand the obstacles farmers face when trying to access or transfer farmland. Your input will help shape tools and strategies to support successful land transitions. If you’ve experienced challenges buying, leasing, or passing on farmland, take the short survey here.
Crane Dance Farm | Middleville, MI
Crane Dance Farm in Middleville, MI is a 100-acre regenerative gem looking toward the future. While still early in their succession planning, these long-time stewards—Animal Welfare Approved and Savory Institute-aligned—are open to mentoring a next-gen partner passionate about multi-species grazing and soil health. With pasture-raised pigs, grassfed beef, hens, bees, and more, this is a rare chance to work alongside experienced farmers on land that’s been regeneratively grazed for decades.
Interested? Create a profile to communicate with the farm/farmer.
Meet Prospect Hill Farm LLC
Meet Prospect Hill Farm LLC, a hardworking full-time farm family searching for 75+ acres in Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, or Washtenaw counties. They raise grass-finished beef using regenerative practices and are passionate about growing their herd while caring for the land. With a 4th-generation farmer and an education advocate leading the way, they’re ready to partner with landowners who want to keep Michigan farming strong.
Know of available land? Help farmers like them find the right opportunity at mifarmlink.org.
Kathy Sample | Argus Farm Stop
In her role at Argus, she interacts with many farms, potential farmers, and people interested in farming. She and her husband have conserved a farm in Dexter; they lease that farm to a young farmer, and farming is part of her everyday conversation. In talking to farmers, the number one issue for new and young farms is access to land.
Kathy worked over the 25 years in the chemical, medical gases and automotive industries, in marketing, strategy and business planning capacities on international projects. Deciding to pursue an entrepreneurial venture in local food systems addressed something she has been interested in all long. Kathy has a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Michigan State University.
Farmers Markets- Support a farmer!
Farmers Market at the Capitol
Eastern Market – Detroit
Royal Oak Farmers Market – Royal Oak
Shelby Farmers Market- Shelby Township
Ann Arbor Farmers Market – Ann Arbor
Ypsilanti Farmers Markets – Ypsilanti
Flint Farmers’ Market – Flint
Midland Area Farmers Market – Midland
Marquette Farmers Market – Marquette
Traverse City Farmers Market – Traverse City
Land Transfer Navigators
The Land Transfer Navigators program is led in partnership by American Farmland Trust with support from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The goal of this initiative is to dramatically increase the transfer of farm and ranch land to a new generation of producers.
The program catalyzes practitioners from across the country to support equitable farm and ranch transfers that work for both entering and exiting generations.
