Innovating Agriculture: How Co-Ops Shape Farmers' Futures

02/13/25 • 15 min

In this episode of Law Talk with the Flock, we sit down with Carl Dickinson, CEO of Central Valley Ag, a farmer-owned co-op across Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska, to discuss the evolving landscape of agribusiness in the Midwest. Carl shares valuable insights into how farmers can thrive by diversifying crops and exploring value-added agriculture, moving beyond traditional methods to meet growing consumer demands.

He emphasizes sustainable farming practices and the importance of understanding market trends, especially in the face of challenges like rising input costs and land prices. Carl also highlights how technology, including data collection and blockchain in agriculture, is reshaping farming practices and helping farmers stay competitive.

The episode explores the essential role of co-ops in supporting farmers through crop management, contracts and storage solutions. Carl shares strategies for increasing farmer profitability, such as targeting niche crops and developing farm-to-table transparency.

Listeners will learn about the future of farming and agribusiness in the Midwest, blending innovative approaches with practical strategies for success in today’s agriculture law landscape.

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Listeners will learn about the future of farming and agribusiness in the Midwest, blending innovative approaches with practical strategies for success in today’s agriculture law landscape.

Visit our Website
Follow Us on LinkedIn
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Read Jeana's Book: Worth It

Previous Episode

Divorce Planning: Asset Protection for Families

In this episode of Law Talk with the Flock, we sit down with Aaron Bourne, a Senior Associate Attorney at Goosmann Law specializing in family law. Aaron shares his client-centered approach to divorce and family law, emphasizing asset protection and the well-being of children in each unique situation — from navigating an amicable divorce to effective co-parenting and safeguarding significant assets.

The episode also covers the challenges of asset division in divorce, particularly in cases involving businesses and real estate, and strategies for fair settlements such as a buyout of one spouse's share in a family farm.

Additionally, Aaron addresses divorce with children and its emotional toll, stressing the importance of maintaining an amicable relationship with an ex-spouse and creating a solid co-parenting plan to minimize distress.

Listeners can gain valuable insights into Aaron's approach to family law in the Midwest, which blends legal guidance with a deep understanding of his clients' unique challenges.

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Next Episode

Estate and Succession Planning for Family Farms

In this episode of Law Talk with the Flock, Jeana is joined by Lisa Steffen to discuss estate and succession planning for farm families. They dive into the complexities of planning for the future, from managing family dynamics to protecting farm assets. Lisa shares advice on how to get started with estate planning, the importance of coordinating with other professionals like accountants and insurance advisors, and how to balance fairness in the distribution of assets, especially when some children are involved in the farm operation while others are not.

Start a smooth transition for future generations by stepping into this episode's tips and insights to help guide you through the process. Tune in to learn how to take the first step toward securing your family's legacy!

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