SDSU Extension to Host Final Sustaining the Legacy Conferences

The conferences will provide estate and farm transition planning guidance for farmers and ranchers.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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South Dakota State University Extension is hosting its final Sustaining the Legacy conferences in 2026 to assist farmers and ranchers with estate and farm transition planning. The conferences will be held at the SDSU Extension Regional Center in Watertown on March 3, 10, and 17, 2026. Industry professionals will present on topics such as trusts, business structures, life insurance, wills, and retirement planning.

Why it matters

Proper estate and transition planning is crucial for farming and ranching families to ensure their assets and businesses are passed on successfully to the next generation. These conferences provide an opportunity for families to learn from experts and develop comprehensive plans to protect their legacies.

The details

The Sustaining the Legacy conferences are designed for farming and ranching families at all stages of the planning process. Attendees will learn methods to transfer farm and ranch assets, set up business structures, and provide financial inheritances to non-farming children. Estate planning and ranch transition attorneys, along with other industry experts, will lead the sessions.

  • The final Sustaining the Legacy conferences will be held on March 3, 10, and 17, 2026.
  • Early registration is available up to two weeks before each conference for $70 per person, or $80 after that.

The players

Heather Gessner

SDSU Extension interim Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Director and Livestock Business Management Field Specialist.

SDSU Extension

The outreach and engagement division of South Dakota State University that provides educational programs and resources to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.

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What they’re saying

“Knowing where to go for help is a huge component of creating a successful plan. If you assemble a strong crop production team, you typically achieve good yields. If you put together a good transition team, you end up with a family that understands the family goals, the right tools in place to accomplish the goals, and a family legacy you can be proud of.”

— Heather Gessner, SDSU Extension interim Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Director and Livestock Business Management Field Specialist (americanagnetwork.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These conferences provide a valuable opportunity for farming and ranching families to work with industry experts and develop comprehensive estate and transition plans to ensure their legacies are protected and passed on to the next generation.