Guidance on Leases and Forages

By Scout Nelson

The Pasture and Forage Minute shared practical guidance on two important topics: ending farmland lease agreements and planning for spring annual forages. The update focused on clear communication, early preparation, and informed decision-making related to land use and forage management.

When discussing lease agreements, the article explained the differences between verbal and written arrangements. Verbal or handshake leases were commonly used, but it was noted that understanding how they ended was important.

For cropland in Nebraska, the lease year was defined as starting on March 1, based on guidance from the Nebraska Supreme Court. To end a year-to-year verbal cropland lease, notice was required six months in advance, meaning Sept. 1. Sending notice by registered mail was recommended to confirm delivery.

Pasture leases were described as simpler. These leases usually followed the grazing season and lasted about five or six months. Most pasture leases ended automatically once grazing concluded, unless a different arrangement was written into an agreement. While handshake agreements were common, written leases were encouraged to avoid confusion and protect everyone involved.

Those seeking examples or additional guidance were directed to the Ag Lease 101 Document Library, a resource designed to help clarify lease terms and expectations.
Link: https://aglease101.org/doclib/

The article also discussed planning for spring annual forages. Even early in the year, it was important to begin planning seed needs and potential feed shortages. For cool-season annual forages, planting typically occurred from mid- to late March through early April, or when soil temperatures reached 42 to 45 degrees.

Oats were identified as the most common option, with spring triticale and spring barley offering similar forage yield and quality. These species could be mixed, depending on goals and seed costs. Grazing usually began in late May and continued into early July, while haying often occurred in late June.

Italian ryegrass could be added to extend grazing, and field peas could improve forage quality and add nitrogen. Herbicide history was also important, as some products had residual effects that could limit establishment.

Readers were encouraged to subscribe to the Pasture and Forage Minute for continued updates.
Link: https://gmail.us17.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=5c438ee4998f5db5645a35e0e&id=c2f262f559

Photo Credit: gettyimages-jacqueline-nix