Is your woodland or cabin a family legacy?

Of all the issues affecting the transfer of forest or cabin property, family members’ differing expectations often lead to family conflict and forced subdivision or sale of the land. Families involved in successful transfers have discussed and agreed on future ownership and management of the land, they often work together to implement management goals and they have a plan in place for the transfer of land.

A first step to avoid conflict and to foster understanding is to hold a family meeting. Family meetings can help to clarify different family members’ interests. For example, family members that live at a distance from the land may or may not share the connection to the land or be interested in carrying on the vision of the older generation.

One activity that can help families learn about each others’ values and interests is the heirloom scale. At one end of the scale is an understanding that the land is a priceless family heirloom to be preserved at all costs; at the other end of the scale is the understanding that the land is a financial asset. During the activity, family members choose their place on the scale and discuss why they positioned themselves where they did. There is no right or wrong answer. Tools like this can help family members think about their own, and better understand others’, values and interests. Then, after the family has discussed their values and interests, it’s time to think about wills, trusts and other means to make those wishes a reality.

Learn more about tips and techniques for family discussion and discuss legal options for transfer of land with a Minnesota attorney. A day-long class Keeping the Forest/Cabin in the Family will be held Saturday, September 17, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Beaver Bay Town Hall. The cost is $100 per family and $20 per person for refreshments and lunch. The class is sponsored by Sugarloaf: The North Shore Stewardship Association and the University of Minnesota Extension. Register with Molly Thompson, Sugarloaf director at 218-525- 0001.

The University of Minnesota Extension has compiled a number of publications, links, and resources to help families develop a shared vision for the future of the land.Visit z.umn.edu/LandTransfer for links to information, including schedules of upcoming workshops.