By Blake Jackson
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension will conduct three free seminars in September 2026 to help farmland owners, renters, and others better understand agricultural leasing. The sessions will provide practical information on developing and managing farmland lease agreements.
Topics will include determining appropriate rental rates, addressing land management responsibilities, understanding legal risks, improving communication between landlords and tenants, and properly ending agricultural leases.
Participants will also have an opportunity to discuss other issues related to farmland leasing.
“More than one-third of Wisconsin’s farmland is rented, and strong landowner/tenant relationships are important for the long-term viability of Wisconsin’s valuable farmland,” said Kelly Wilfert, attorney and Farm Law Outreach Specialist with UW-Madison Extension.
“Every agreement is unique, and attending a workshop is a great way to learn more or ask questions on specific aspects of farm lease arrangements.”
The first seminar will take place September 16, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Health & Human Services Building Community Room in Dodgeville.
A second session is scheduled for September 17, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Abbotsford City Hall.
The final seminar will be held September 23, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Extension Eau Claire County in Altoona.
Those who register will receive a complimentary copy of the Wisconsin Guide to Farmland Leasing. The resource addresses legal considerations, lease payment structures, payment calculations, and the role of leasing in farm succession planning. It also includes sample lease forms.
Advance registration is required to ensure enough materials are available. Participants can register through the UW-Madison Extension website using the FarmLease2026 registration page.
Individuals who need an interpreter, alternative-language materials, accessible formats, or other accommodations should contact Kelly Wilfert by September 9, 2026. For additional information, attendees can reach Wilfert at kelly.wilfert@wisc.edu or (608) 263-5798.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Wisconsin, Education