By Blake Jackson
Land agencies and conservation groups are actively promoting practices that improve soil health and ecosystems, often with financial incentives. However, these practices, whether temporary (cover crops) or permanent (fencing), can impact lease agreements between landowners and tenants.
A new University of Missouri Extension publication aims to bridge this gap by providing a framework for discussing conservation practices. Costs and benefits can vary greatly, from rent adjustments to depreciation of installed features like fences.
The publication recommends a four-step approach for smooth collaboration:
- Shared Goals, Different Perspectives: Identify the landowner's objective (land improvement) and the tenant's concern (profitability).
- Site-Specific Solutions: Explore various conservation methods that fit the specific land characteristics.
- Open Communication: Develop a clear, flexible plan that acknowledges both parties' needs and goals.
- Formalize the Agreement: Document the plan as a lease addendum, outlining activities, timelines, and responsibilities for each party.
By working together, landowners and tenants can achieve shared goals for land productivity and conservation. The publication, “Conservation Provisions in Leases,” is available for free download at https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g421
Phot Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education