Agricultural leases are an important tool heavily relied on by many farmers and ranchers across the U.S. agricultural industry. Although the parties are free to negotiate a wide variety of terms, agriculture leases should, at minimum, contain the “Four P's”: the parties, property, period and payment.

Cattle grazing may be a good use of cattle grazing land, but it may not be the only good use. Particularly as nationwide climate goals have driven investment throughout the country in clean electric and carbon offset technologies, cattle graziers may find new market opportunities to make mixed use of cattle grazing land.

“Elk and other big game can be a positive or a negative for a ranch, depending largely on how they impact the bottom line. If a ranch is able to derive sufficient income through hunting, ecotourism or from government programs – such as the USDA Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program – then wildlife can be a benefit.”

Because solar leases are long-term commitments and dictate the future use of the property, landowners should carefully consider a variety of factors when deciding whether a solar lease is right for them, their family and their land.

Improving land while on a lease can be challenging, but Josh and Tara Morris have a few tips and tricks to share based on their experience. 

Livestock producers can enhance success by identifying and exploiting their competitive advantage in relation to their competition.