Mediation is used to settle a variety of legal disputes, including those in the agricultural industry.  It is a voluntary process that allows those involved in the dispute to avoid the expense and adversarial nature of litigation.  A trained mediator works with individuals and organizations involved in the dispute to identify a solution that is mutually acceptable to all parties involved.  Unlike a judge, mediators do not levy decisions and have little control over the outcome of the dispute.  Their role is to help disputing parties assess potential resolutions and discuss the issue from all angles, keeping communication flowing and respectful.   In the end, nobody is right or wrong.  They simply work together as a team to eliminate the problem at hand.

Agricultural mediation brings everyone involved in the dispute together into the same room to work out a solution.  The problem is dealt with openly and honestly, but the discussions held during mediation remain private, regardless whether the issue is resolved or not.

Mediation can be requested by any party involved in a dispute.  It could be an individual or an organization.  Some states offer a conflict resolution service that helps get the ball rolling for agricultural mediations.  A mediator is chosen, and the mediation session is scheduled for a neutral location.  Typically, agricultural mediations are settled within a few hours, as long as everyone arrives ready and willing to negotiate.

Once the mediation begins, the mediator sets the ground rules, and each party makes a brief statement concerning the issue at hand.  In addition to the facts as they see them, each also has an opportunity to share feelings and opinions regarding the issue.  The various issues involved are clarified and each of the possible resolutions are examined.  Once an agreement is reached, the mediator records the details, and the session ends.  Though rare, if an agreement cannot be reached, each party has the option to pursue litigation or another form of alternative dispute resolution.