Abstract ID: 3.10746 | Accepted as Talk | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

Rural mountain regions face a growing challenge of abandoned agricultural buildings due to demographic shifts, structural changes in agriculture, and declining family succession rates. While these vacant structures are often perceived as obstacles to sustainable rural development, they also present unique opportunities for revitalization, adaptive reuse, and community-driven innovation. The association “Perspektive Landwirtschaft” presents practical experiences and best practices in farm transfers beyond family succession, demonstrating how these approaches contribute to avoid the abandonment of agricultural buildings and fostering new economic and social dynamics in mountain regions. Traditional family-based farm succession has long been the dominant model in Alpine and other mountainous areas. However, with increasing migration to urban centers, generational gaps, and economic pressures, many farms and their associated buildings remain unoccupied. Through our work, we have explored alternative models of farm transfer—such as cooperative ownership, social farming initiatives, and leasing to new entrants—which offer viable solutions to counteract this trend. These approaches facilitate the entry of young farmers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders who bring new ideas, economic models, and community-oriented perspectives. Drawing from real-world examples, we share insights into successful non-familial farm transfers. Key factors influencing these processes include legal frameworks, financial incentives, participatory planning, and cultural attitudes toward land ownership. Our work demonstrates the importance of new approaches to ensure alignment with local needs while promoting resilience and sustainability. By sharing our experiences and lessons learned, we hope to participate in vital discussions on sustainable rural development in mountain regions. Alternative succession models represents not only an economic opportunity but also a means to preserve cultural landscapes, regional food systems, biodiversity and strengthen rural resilience in the face of contemporary challenges.