We’re talking farm succession, estate taxes, renewable energy & what’s in the “Big Beautiful Bill,” with Dr. Shannon Ferrell—recorded live in Wichita at High Plains Journal LIVE!
The Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast team traveled to Wichita for High Plains Journal Live, where they sat down with Dr. Shannon Ferrell of Oklahoma State University. In this lively conversation,
Dr. Ferrell dives deep into the realities of farm succession planning, from the traditional “farm kid vs. city kid” dilemma to the increasingly common “no heirs returning” challenge.
He explains how recent legislative changes in the “One Big Beautiful Bill” affect payment limits for LLCs, estate tax exemptions, and spousal portability—critical details for farm families planning their future.
The discussion also turns toward energy, with a look at the booming solar industry, the economics of battery storage, and what the phase-out of renewable tax credits might mean for rural Oklahoma.
Dr. Ferrell offers a bold proposal for modernizing transmission easement compensation, encouraging landowner participation in much-needed infrastructure projects.
Whether you’re thinking about passing down your farm or eyeing new opportunities in renewable energy, this episode is packed with insights you can use.
Key Takeaways
- Farm transition planning is shifting from farm kid vs. city kid challenges to situations where no heirs return to the operation.
- LLCs can now receive combined payment limits for partners, removing a barrier to certain succession structures.
- Estate tax exemption rises to $15M per individual in 2026, with spousal portability ensuring up to $30M passes tax-free.
- Gift tax exclusions allow $19,000 per person annually without impacting the unified credit.
- Renewable energy development in Oklahoma remains strong despite upcoming tax credit phase-outs.
all this and more.. click below to listen!
