If you own or rent farm land in Wisconsin, how much do you understand about the process of renting that land? Do you need a contract? What should be in the contract? How much is the land really worth? These and other questions that surround the process of renting farm land are the focus of a pair of workshops being conducted in the area on December 12 & 13.
University of Wisconsin – Madison, Division of Extension is providing the opportunities for owners of farmland and agricultural producers to find out about land rent realities and options. These free in-person workshops are sponsored by the Extension offices of Langlade, Marinette, Oconto, and Shawano Counties. Registration is not required and all interested persons are encouraged to attend.
There are two options to attend this discussion. The first will be held on Tuesday, December 12th beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Pound Town Hall, located at W8484 Cty. Hwy. B, Coleman, WI. The second will be on Wednesday, Dec. 13th in the lower level (Rooms A/B) of the Shawano County Courthouse, 311 N. Main Street. The Shawano session begins at 12:30 p.m. If in doubt about weather issues for these meetings, contact either the Shawano or Marinette County Extension offices at 715-526-6136 or 715-732-7510 respectively.
Crops/Soils Educator Scott Reuss will lead the discussion of the details that you should consider when negotiating a farm rental contract, and why having a contract is important. He will also detail some of the advantages and disadvantages of different types of annual or multi-year leasing contracts. Current data regarding land rental rates in the multi-county area will be shared and discussed, as well.
Although a written contract is not a legal requirement, it does allow for protections for both parties and allows the producer involved to more readily access crop insurance and governmental programs. Many different things can go into a contract, but the most important center on timing, payment processes, restrictions, and opportunities for flexibility when unusual cropping conditions occur.
Source: wisc.edu
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Wisconsin, Education