Future Planning For Farm Families

By Scout Nelson

Farm and ranch families in western Nebraska have an opportunity to attend free educational workshops focused on succession and estate planning. These sessions are designed to help operations prepare for future transitions while protecting long term business stability.

The workshops are hosted by the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline in collaboration with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Nebraska Extension, and the Nebraska Farmers Union Foundation. Together, these partners aim to provide practical, easy to understand guidance for families planning the future of their agricultural operations.

Two Farm and Ranch Succession workshops are scheduled in the Panhandle region. The first will be held on February 3 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the South Platte Natural Resources District in Sidney. The second will take place on February 4 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff. Meals will be provided at both sessions and are sponsored by Platte Valley Bank Farm and Ranch Management.

Workshop topics will focus on key areas of succession and estate planning. These include understanding important decisions and available planning tools, transfer and tax considerations, and how business structures such as limited liability companies can support asset protection. Additional discussion will cover lease rights, purchase options, and financial and management challenges that often arise during ownership transitions.

“These workshops are intended to help farm and ranch families start, continue or refine their succession and estate plans,” Groskopf said. “Planning for the future ensures a smooth transition to the next generation and protects the legacy of Nebraska’s agricultural producers.”

Although the workshops are free to attend, advance registration is requested to assist with meal planning and materials. To register or learn more, participants can contact the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline at 1-800-464-0258.

This educational effort is supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture through agreement number FSA22CPT0012189, reinforcing the importance of proactive planning and long term resilience in Nebraska agriculture.

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