Farm leases

Farm leases are agreements between landlords and tenants that outline how land will be used, managed and valued. Leases protect the interests of both parties while ensuring productive use of agricultural lands. Whether you are a landlord or tenant understanding lease options, how to structure a lease, and responsibilities are key to a successful farming arrangement.

Leasing basics

Essential knowledge for all types of agricultural leases. Key elements of farm leases include the importance of a written lease, lease terms, payment, responsibilities for inputs, and provisions for termination or renewal.

Publications

• Basics of Farm Lease Agreements
• Verbal Farm Rental Agreements Under Missouri Law
• Cash Rental Rates in Missouri

Crop leases

Explore the types of lease structures for crops (including hay) and pasture. There are two main types of leases: cash rent and crop share. Flexible cash leases are a third option where risk, and profit, is shared between landlords and tenants.

Publications

• Crop Share Leases in Missouri
• Flexible Cash Leases in Missouri

Livestock leases

Livestock leases allow a tenant or operator to manage animals for breeding, grazing, or production. These arrangements can be beneficial for both parties as it can reduce the need for capital and provide labor.

Publications

• Introduction to Beef Cow Leases
• Beef Cow Rental Agreements
• Pasture Rental Agreements

Energy leases

Leasing agricultural land for renewable energy is gaining popularity in rural areas. It is important to consider length of agreements, land use, compensation and the impact on farming when considering these arrangements.

Publications

• Leasing Land for Solar Energy Development
• Introduction to Wind Energy Leases

Conservation practices in leasing

Learn how to incorporate conservation in your lease agreements. This can include permanent practices such as terraces, waterways and ponds or temporary practices including cover crops, reduced or no tillage.

Publications

• Conservation Provisions in Leases
• Incorporation Conservation Provisions in Leases

Hunting leases

A hunting lease can provide landowners with additional income while providing managed wildlife habitats to outdoor enthusiasts.

Publications

• Landowner Guide to Lease Hunting

Farm building and equipment leases

Publications

• Purchasing and Leasing Farm Equipment
• Pasture Rental Agreements
• Farm Building Rental Rate Survey (PDF)

Additional lease resources can be found at the North Central Farm Management site.