You've heard the stories of succession planning from families around Montana this season, and now you're ready to start thinking about succession planning for your own family's farm or ranch. In this bonus episode, we bring you a two-part, practical roadmap for getting started. In chapter one, we take you to Winnett, where Megan hosted a live panel discussion with succession specialists Dr. Marsha Goetting of MSU Extension, Michael Stolp of AgWest Farm Credit, and CPA Stacie Arntzen. They break down what it really takes to begin a succession plan, sharing guidance on communication, business structures, taxes, trusts, and how to approach transitions both within and beyond the family. In chapter two, American Farmland Trust's Farm Legacy Director Jerry Cosgrove discusses succession through the lens of land protection, conservation easements, and what to do when there's no next generation waiting in the wings. Together, these conversations offer actionable steps for families seeking to secure the future of their operation.
