By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is organizing a series of farmland leasing workshops in July and August 2025. These sessions aim to help landowners, tenants, and ag professionals build stronger, more effective lease agreements. A statewide virtual webinar will also be held on August 26, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
The workshops go beyond rental rates to address key topics like land values, market trends, cash rent updates, production costs, lease laws, and communication strategies between landowners and farm tenants. This year’s Iowa farmland rental rate survey shows a 2.9% average decrease, with rates falling to $271 per acre, the first drop since 2019.
Each session lasts about two and a half hours and includes expert guidance from ISU Extension farm management specialists. These events are designed to help farmers understand local cash rent trends and answer questions related to lease agreements, especially those influenced by farm estate plans or ownership transitions.
According to program specialist Ann Johanns, strong lease relationships are crucial: “More than half of Iowa’s farmland is rented, and strong landowner/tenant relationships are important for the long-term viability of Iowa’s valuable farmland.”
Registration for local county workshops is $25 per person, including a 100-page workbook filled with lease samples, survey data, legal forms, and other decision tools. Early registration is encouraged, as late sign-ups may have an added fee. For in-person meetings, contact your ISU Extension and Outreach county office.
To attend the statewide webinar, online registration is also $25 and required in advance. For details on dates and locations, visit the Ag Decision Maker events page, which also features helpful leasing resources and tools.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-alexeyrumyantsev
Categories: Iowa, Business, Education