2026 farmland leasing arrangements meetings offered across Iowa
Landowners and tenants are invited to attend a local meeting or virtual webinar to strengthen lease agreements
AMES, Iowa – Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will offer a series of farmland leasing arrangements meetings across the state in late July and August, as well as a statewide virtual webinar on Aug. 19. The annual meetings are designed to address questions that landowners, tenants, agribusiness professionals and those involved in farmland ownership have about leasing farmland.
Workshop topics will cover land values, market outlook and cash rent trends, costs of production, methods for determining a fair rental rate, legal updates regarding leases and strategies for effective communication with tenants or landowners. ISU Extension and Outreach farm management field specialists will also address common questions regarding leases affected by a farm estate or succession plan.
According to Ann Johanns, program specialist for Ag Decision Maker at ISU Extension and Outreach, the 2026 annual survey of cash rental rates for Iowa farmland showed little change overall, with the state average rate decreasing by 0.4% in 2026 to $270 per acre. This is the second decline in cash rents since 2019, after a peak of $279 per acre in 2023 and 2024.
“While the trend in rental rates is fairly flat, every lease agreement is unique, and attending a workshop is a great way to learn more or ask questions on specific aspects of farm lease arrangements,” said Johanns. “More than half of Iowa’s farmland is rented, and strong landowner/tenant relationships are important for the long-term viability of Iowa’s valuable farmland.”
Attendees often participate in this meeting series annually, each with different goals. In post-session evaluations in 2025, 100% of respondents reported satisfaction with the program’s ability to meet their needs. Past participants shared that they attended to deepen their understanding of factors affecting farmland leases. After attending, many made improvements to their own lease agreements or reported that the session confirmed their current leases aligned with all parties’ needs.
Attend a local meeting
Registration for local county farmland leasing meetings is $25 per person, which includes workshop materials. Pre-registration is encouraged, as an additional fee may be added if registering less than two calendar days before the meeting date. To register, call the hosting ISU Extension and Outreach county office.
Attend the statewide webinar
If you are unable to attend an in-person meeting, a statewide virtual webinar will take place on Aug. 19 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Online registration is required, and the registration fee is $25 per individual.
For more information, contact your farm management specialist or county office.
PHOTO: Farm with a red barn on a curving road in the Iowa countryside on a beautiful spring day. (iStock │ #2157489040 – Willard)
