Aug. 9, 2022 in College Station, Texas. (Sam Craft/Texas A&M AgriLife Marketing and Communications)
Successful farming and ranching require more than sound production practices. Producers must also navigate financial management, tax considerations, business planning, risk management, and lending requirements. These decisions often play a significant role in the long-term success and sustainability of an operation.
The Agricultural Finance, Tax, and Asset Protection (AgFTAP) Program was developed to help farmers and ranchers build skills and confidence in these critical areas of farm and ranch management. Through workshops, educational resources, and hands-on training opportunities, AgFTAP helps producers better understand the financial and business aspects of agriculture while connecting them with professionals and agencies that can support their operations.
AgFTAP focuses on several key areas that directly impact agricultural businesses. Participants learn about financial recordkeeping and financial statements, tax management strategies, business planning, marketing considerations, lender readiness, and available USDA programs. The program is designed to provide practical information that producers can apply to their own operations, whether they are just getting started or have been farming and ranching for generations.
Strong financial management can help producers evaluate opportunities, prepare for unexpected challenges, and make informed decisions during both favorable and difficult economic conditions. Understanding key financial documents, developing a business plan, and maintaining accurate records can also improve communication with lenders and other business partners.
Another important aspect of the AgFTAP Program is helping producers better understand available resources and assistance programs. Navigating federal and state agricultural programs can be challenging, and educational programs like AgFTAP help connect producers with information that may assist them in managing risk and pursuing business goals.
The program also provides opportunities for producers to interact with Extension specialists, agricultural economists, tax professionals, lenders, and agency representatives. These connections help producers gain access to expertise and resources that can support future business planning efforts.
Whether a producer is seeking financing, evaluating a new enterprise, planning for the future, or simply looking to improve financial management skills, AgFTAP provides education and tools designed to help agricultural operations remain competitive and resilient.
Upcoming AgFTAP Workshop in Homestead, Florida
Producers interested in learning more about financial management, tax considerations, business planning, and lender readiness will have an opportunity to participate in an upcoming AgFTAP workshop.
Business Planning and Tax Management for Farmers and Ranchers will be held on August 26, 2026, at the UF/IFAS Extension Miami-Dade County office in Homestead, Florida. The workshop will feature presentations from Extension specialists and industry professionals covering AgFTAP resources, USDA programs, agribusiness development, taxes, business planning, marketing, and financial statement fundamentals. The program also includes opportunities for participants to connect with lending and agency representatives.
For additional information and registration details, interested participants can register through the workshop materials and local Extension contacts.
Pancho Abello | Associate Prof. & Ext. Specialist
Department of Agricultural Economics | Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Tel: (940) 647-3908
Email: pancho.abello@ag.tamu.edu