(Atlantic, IA) – If you are a seasoned landowner, tenant, or ag business professional, or are new to farmland ownership or taking over the farm operation from an older generation, a program taking place August 11th in Atlantic will likely prove to be beneficial for you. ISU Extension officials say there is a lot of uncertainty in agriculture going into 2027 and this program supports Iowans who want to build stronger lease relationships.
According to ISU Extension and Outreach Program Specials Ann Johanns, “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. A vital asset that affects the state’s overall economy.” Johanns says “While the trend in rental rates is fairly flat, every lease agreement is unique and attending a workshop is a great way to learn more or ask questions on specific aspects of farm lease arrangements.”
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Cass County is hosting a farmland leasing meeting on Tuesday, August 11 at 1:30 PM at the Cass County Community Center in Atlantic. The annual meeting is offered to address questions that landowners, tenants or other interested individuals have about leasing farmland. The 2026 annual survey of cash rental rates for Iowa farmland shows little change overall, with the state average rate decreasing, by 0.4% in 2026 to $270 per acre. This is the second decline in cash rents since 2019, after a peak of $279 per acre in 2023 and 2024.
Attend for a conversation on land values, market outlook, and cash rent trends, cost of production, methods for determining a fair rental rate, legal updates impacting Iowa landowners and tenants, and communicating between leasing parties. Farm Management Field Specialists will also address common questions when a lease is impacted by a farm estate or succession plan.
The two- and one-half-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 a better understanding of current cash rental rate surveys and factors driving next year’s rents such as market trends and input costs.
Each registrant will receive a 100-page workbook with resources regarding land leasing agreements such as surveys, sample written lease agreements and termination forms, along with many other publications. The workbook is included in the registration fee and additional copies may also be available for purchase during or after the meeting.
The meeting in Atlantic will be held at the Cass County Community Center at 805 West 10th Street, from 1:30 PM to 4 PM. Registration is $25 per individual and includes materials. Pre-registration is encouraged to ensure adequate space and materials. To register contact the Cass County Extension Office by calling 712-243-1132 or email keolson@iastate.edu.
Additional leasing meetings are being held across Iowa through mid-August, facilitated by farm management specialists with ISU Extension and Outreach. For other locations, including an online meeting option in late August, visit the Ag Decision Maker events page.
The Ag Decision Maker website provides useful materials for negotiating leases, information on various types of leases, lease forms and newly updated Decision Tools.
