May 21, 2025

Improving operational efficiencies by leveraging neighbor relationships

33 minutes

We get creative in this episode and discuss specific examples of how farmers are approaching their neighbors with mutually beneficial business ideas. The first part identifies the opportunities and after the break, we discuss how to approach the opportunities. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Steve Schwoerer discuss the following topics:

Defining neighbors

Why this has become more popular

High-level overview of farm and neighbor relationships

Crop purchase agreements

Land leasing agreements

Investor opportunities

Conservation efforts with your neighbors

Outside professional support

Legal and financial items

What situation is the most successful

Challenges

Future topics in this space

This episode is brought to you by the Compeer Financial.

About the guest

Steve Schwoerer is the Vice President of Dairy Lending at Compeer Financial. His primary role is to provide industry expertise and advice to the largest dairy farm clients of Compeer Financial. He has been an account officer for dairy clients in the Farm Credit System for more than 38 years. Steve graduated with a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. Steve is also a member of the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Dairy Business Association.

Resources

Connect with Steve

Agricultural Financing resources

Agricultural Businesses resources

Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream. Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship.

This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing [email protected].

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