Succession planning remains one of the most complex — and stressful — challenges facing Canadian hog producers. A new peer-based program launching this winter aims to change that by helping farm families approach transition planning with greater clarity, confidence, and support.
The program, called Groundworks, is funded through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Producer Wellbeing Initiative and brings together expertise from the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing, Ag Risk Managers Ltd., and Loft32 / Farmers Bridge.
Research consistently shows that farmers experience elevated stress levels, and succession planning is among the most significant contributors — particularly in family-run livestock operations where business, legacy, and relationships are deeply intertwined.
“Succession is not just a business transaction; it is a human journey,” said Maggie Van Camp, farmer and founder of Loft32 / Farmers Bridge. “And quite frankly, we are not doing a good enough job at this part of the planning.”
A Practical, Peer-Based Approach
Groundworks is designed specifically for owner-operators who want to move beyond avoiding the topic and begin structured, informed conversations about the future of their farms.
The program combines:
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Peer group support, offering shared experience, accountability, and practical insight from other producers
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Confidential financial analysis, helping participants understand readiness for transition
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Online video training, focused on decision-making and communication
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In-person workshops, designed to build confidence navigating intergenerational change
Together, these elements aim to address both the financial and emotional realities of succession — an area many producers acknowledge is difficult to tackle alone.
First Group Launches in Eastern Ontario
The first Groundworks cohort begins in mid-February in Eastern Ontario. The program is open to farmer owner-operators aged 50 and over who are actively thinking about succession planning.
Participation is limited to 10 producers, and early inquiries are encouraged ahead of the January 23 deadline.
