Each spring, USDA’s National Ag Statistics Service (NASS) surveys operations with a history of cash renting land and compiles it into an annual report. That report is summarized by K-State Extension Farm Economist Robin Reid into the Kansas County Cash Rent Values report available on our AgManager website. It’s not the only resource on rental rates available, however. There are many others as well.

Want to look at numbers? The publication referenced above is a good one, as is the companion publication that typically follows it that takes an economic view of rental rates. Use any or all, keeping in mind they all have limitations and require some level of study to see what they cover and what they do not. For example: the Kansas County Cash Rent Values report doesn’t differentiate between old and new agreements or production levels and includes hay ground values in crop ground numbers. Still, it’s the best local survey numbers we have and can be a great resource. In short, they are best used not as the number but as a starting number for every unique situation.

Interested in a written contract or what state statutes say about oral lease arrangements. We have resources to help with those types of questions as well. From the complex with explanations to the simple almost fill in the blank type examples, there are options that can help.

Don’t even know where to begin? There are even references to help with that. Most are going to start with the recommendation to focus on agreements that are equitable to both landlord and tenant. They will also provide some insight into other considerations as well. Maybe they’ll just remind you of what you have already considered. Maybe they’ll help you improve the agreement you have. Either way, they can serve as great information to think about.

Check the numerous resources out online at https://www.agmanager.info/farm-management/land-rental-rates. If hard copies are more convenient, feel free to visit any of our District Offices or email me at dhallaue@ksu.edu.