By Raymond Massey
Landowners and land renters can help their neighbors by filling out a survey on their cash-rent rates.
Ray Massey, University of Missouri Extension economist, Columbia, seeks responses to an online survey.
This is something new for the MU guide, which is updated every three years. Respondents should go to crops.missouri.edu(opens in new window) and click on “Take the 2018 Cash Rent Survey(opens in new window).”
Massey asks farmers to go online by desktop computer, laptop or tablet. The survey can be done by cellphone, but that’s not easy. “So far, most who start the survey by cellphone drop out,” Massey says. “People answer the first questions but quit. It’s difficult on a small screen.”
Survey results help landlords and tenants. Land agreements include crops, pastures and hay ground. The survey includes a section on rent for grain bins, machine sheds and recreation land.
“Individual answers will not be revealed,” Massey says. “We publish only averages.”
Massey says he’s making one last blast to ask for results to improve accuracy. “The more answers we get make a better guide.”
“The MU guide is simply that,” he adds. “It’s a guide. Both sides in negotiations see what others do. It’s a starting point.”
Those not online can get a paper copy by calling 573-884-7788. However, deadline is July 13.
Other states use similar surveys, usually on an annual basis. In Missouri the three-year survey keeps costs down.
The survey covers only cash rent. It’s not for crop-share or other lease agreements.
Results of the 2018 Cash Rent Survey will be posted at extension.missouri.edu(opens in new window), or you can ask your local extension center to print a copy.
“We ask that more take part, now,” Massey says.
Massey is in the Division of Applied Social Sciences in the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.