The Virginia FarmLink Program is designed to help two important segments of the commonwealth’s farm community:

farmers and landowners who are facing retirement and want to see their businesses continue and their land stay in production; and

beginning and aspiring farmers who are in search of business arrangements through which they can acquire land, equipment, experience and access to the knowledge of seasoned producers.

While program participants’ circumstances will vary, here are some possible reasons for completing a FarmLink questionnaire:

"Farm Owners" questionnaire:

You are planning to retire in the next five to 10 years.

You do not have anyone to continue your farm business but want to see the operation continue after your retirement.

You own farmland that you do not farm, but you want to see it stay in production.

You want to help a beginning farmer.

"Farm Seekers" questionnaire:

You want to farm but are not a landowner.

You have a desire to farm but lack the financial means to get started.

You want to avoid the debt associated with start-up costs.

You are willing and able to invest time, energy, resources and sweat equity in return for an opportunity to farm.