Farm leasing info available Aug. 2

With the recent increases seen in farmland values, many people are asking "What will cash rental rates look like for the 2012 crop year?"

Setting cash rental rates in stable times is hard enough. Setting cash rental rates when there are volatile prices for corn, soybeans, and input cost, is even more difficult.

Iowa State University Extension will offer a Farm Land Leasing workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 2, at 1:30PM and 6:30 PM at the Clarion Inn off I-80 at Exit 225 in the Amana Colonies.

Jim Jensen, ISU Extension Farm Management Specialist, will be the presenter. According to Jensen, "The 2011 Extension Cash Rental Survey is out and will be discussed as well as the profit potential for tenants.” Cash rents typically reflect profitability the previous year.

Jensen will be discussing land values, leasing practices, and lead an interactive discussion on methods to calculate cash rent.   Jensen stated, "The most frequent stumbling block for setting a cash rental rate is determining the land quality of the farm.  Rents on various quality soils and ways to determine land quality will be discussed.

The Farm Land Leasing workshop cost is $25 per person and includes the 2011 Farm Leasing Arrangement booklet and copies of the presentation. To pre-register call the Henry County Extension Office at 319.385.8126.

Registration cost can be paid at the door approximately 30 minutes before the workshop begins. For those that pre-register after Friday, July 29 or register at the meeting, a $5 late registration fee will be added.