Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is hosting multiple farmland leasing meetings during July and August at various times and locations throughout Iowa. The annual meeting is offered to address questions that land owners, tenants or other interested individuals have about leasing farmland.
“More than half of Iowa’s farmland is rented, and strong landlord/tenant relationships are important for the long-term viability of Iowa’s valuable farmland,” said Ann Johanns, program specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Iowa farmland cash rental rates decreased by $14 an acre from 2014 to 2015; every district in Iowa showed a decline in reported rental values. The decreases ranged from $24 in Central Iowa to $4 in northeast Iowa. Northeast Iowa reported the highest average in 2015 at $273, and the lowest district value was $187 in south central Iowa.”
The three-hour workshop is designed to assist landowners, farm tenants and other agri-business professionals with current issues related to farmland ownership, management and leasing arrangements. Attendees will gain understanding of current cash rental rate surveys and factors driving next year’s rents such as market trends and input costs. Additional information on the 2014 Iowa State Land Value Survey, 2014 Farm Bill, flexible leases, Corn Suitability Rating Index (CSR2) and Iowa’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy will be presented.
Each registrant will receive a 100-page workbook with resources regarding land leasing agreements such as surveys, sample written lease agreements and termination forms and many other publications.
Attend a local meeting
The leasing meetings being held across Iowa are facilitated by farm management specialists with ISU Extension and Outreach. A listing of county extension offices hosting the meetings will be available on the ISU Extension and Outreach online calendar for July and August, and at Ag Decision Maker.
For registration information, contact the local ISU Extension and Outreach county office. Preregistration is encouraged, as an additional $5 fee will be added if registering fewer than two calendar days before the meeting date.