South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden announced that the Keep Farmers Farming program has received a $200,000 grant from the state’s Future Fund to expand estate and transition planning services for agricultural producers across South Dakota.
The funding will support efforts to help farm and ranch families plan for generational transitions, including the transfer of land, assets, and operational knowledge critical to long-term viability in the state’s agricultural sector.
“Keep Farmers Farming is making sure that our kids and grandkids keep South Dakota agriculture strong for generations to come,” Rhoden said in a statement. “It’s about transferring more than just assets – it’s about passing down experience, work ethic, morals, and history.”
Earlier this year, the Noem-Rhoden administration partnered with the South Dakota Ag Foundation and First Dakota National Bank to broaden the reach and accessibility of the program. Following that restructuring, participation increased from 54 families to 125 families statewide.
As part of the initial expansion effort, the South Dakota Ag Foundation previously received a one-year, $200,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development to administer, market, and grow the program.
“The next 10 years will be critical as farms and ranches transition wealth, knowledge, and wisdom to the next generation of South Dakota producers,” said Kyle Holt, CEO of the South Dakota Ag Foundation. “The South Dakota Ag Foundation is grateful for the continued support from the Governor’s Office for our Keep Farmers Farming program as we meet this incredible demand.”
The South Dakota Ag Foundation was formed in 2015 as an independent, industry-led nonprofit organization made up of South Dakota leaders focused on strengthening agriculture and ensuring its success for future generations.