THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL 38 | MARCH 2025 Statements or opinions expressed in the Oklahoma Bar Journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Oklahoma Bar Association, its officers, Board of Governors, Board of Editors or staff. if necessary. Contact the OAMP by phone at 405-521-3934 or 800-248-5465, by email at mediation@ag.ok.gov or online at www.ok.gov/mediation or www.oklahoma.gov/oamp.html. When both parties have agreed to mediate, a date, time and place are determined, and the parties gather for the mediation meeting. The OAMP mediator ensures that the parties understand the process and participate in good faith, working toward any possible solutions that will resolve the dispute and, as always, are acceptable to all the participating parties. Mediations typically last a few hours, but complex matters may require more than one meeting. Family farm transitions frequently require multiple meetings. Remember: Mediations are confidential, and participation is voluntary. Parties are not charged for the mediations that qualify under the USDA grant program. They are scheduled in the most convenient place and at times convenient to the parties. At least one party must be conducting agriculture business or be located in Oklahoma. The OAMP has a mediation success rate of 80% overall, and for those cases that do not result in an agreement, the parties’ relationships are improved due to a better understanding of the issues. CONCLUSION The Oklahoma Agriculture Mediation Program has played an important role in supporting the state’s agricultural community for decades. From its origins during the farm crisis of the 1980s to its continued evolution in addressing modern disputes, the OAMP exemplifies the power of mediation in fostering understanding, resolving conflicts and strengthening relationships. With its high success rate and strong commitment to serving Oklahoma farmers and ranchers, the OAMP remains a valuable resource for navigating the challenges inherent in agriculture. As the program continues to adapt to new demands, it ensures that Oklahoma’s agricultural producers have the support needed to thrive in an ever-changing landscape. For more information or to seek assistance, the OAMP’s dedicated team is just a call or a click away. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mike Mayberry has served as executive director of the Oklahoma Agriculture Mediation Program since 2014 and was previously deputy court administrator for the Oklahoma Supreme Court Administrative Office of the Courts. He has been an OBA member since 1988.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTk3MQ==