lease
New Publication: “The Beginner’s Guide to Farmland Ownership”
Nearly 39% of the 880 million acres of farmland in the United States is leased, and in Ohio, this figure approaches 50%. Many individuals who inherit or purchase farmland have limited experience in agricultural management, creating uncertainty regarding effective land stewardship. To assist these novice farmland owners, Ohio State University’s Agricultural and Resource Law Program is pleased to announce the release of our latest publication, “The Beginner’s Guide to Farmland Ownership”, authored by Robert Moore, Attorney and Research Specialist at OSU. This practical, user-friendly resource is now available for download at farmoffice.osu.edu.
Owning farmland is not only a rewarding opportunity but also a significant responsibility, particularly for new landowners with limited farming experience. Whether you’ve inherited farmland or recently purchased it, navigating complex decisions such as leasing, selling, or managing alternative land uses can be challenging. This 48-page, comprehensive guide was developed to help new landowners understand and manage their farmland effectively.
“The Beginner’s Guide to Farmland Ownership” addresses key areas that every new landowner needs to understand. Topics include understanding farmland valuation, exploring leasing arrangements (cash rent, share rent, and flex leases), considerations when selling farmland, managing tax implications, and assessing alternative land uses such as renewable energy or conservation easements. Additionally, the guide explores strategies for protecting farmland through legal instruments and minimizing risk through insurance and business entities.
Visit farmoffice.osu.edu to access this publication.
This was authored by Robert Moore, Attorney and Research Specialist at OSU, and first appeared at https://farmoffice.osu.edu/blog/fri-03142025-1223pm/new-publication-beginner%E2%80%99s-guide-farmland-ownership
Leasing, Custom Rates, and Cash Rents
This is one time of year when questions start coming in about leasing, custom rates, and cash rents. The Extension office is often a source that land owners and producers check. However, we really do not have a crystal ball to look in nor do we actually have the entire scoop on what all of the going rates are. But here is what we do have up our sleeve to get you started if you are trying to make sense of some arrangements. Some numbers here will make sense and some will make you scratch your head, as each production arrangement is different. There are many ways to arrive at a rental agreement and these are only one way down that path.
Establishing a Fair Pasture Rental Rate
Western Ohio Cropland Values and Cash Rents
USDA County Estimates (Ohio Cash Rent County Estimates 2016)