As Nebraska producers prepare for another growing season shaped by high input costs, weather volatility, and evolving land use decisions, the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s spring Land Management Quarterly webinar on May 19 delivered timely insights into the state’s agricultural real estate market and leasing considerations.
Hosted by agricultural economists Jim Jansen and Anastasia Meyer, the webinar highlighted early findings from the 2025 Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market Survey, shared flexible lease strategies in response to uncertain crop prices and yields, and emphasized the critical role of communication in landlord-tenant relationships.
Cash Rent Rates Ease Slightly as Profitability Tightens
Jansen opened the webinar with a look at statewide trends in cash rental rates and land values, noting a slight decrease in cropland rents for 2025, the first such dip in recent years.
“We’re seeing rates come down just a bit, likely a reflection of softer commodity prices and tighter profit margins,” Jansen said. “Corn and soybean prices have fallen compared to last year, and input costs remain elevated. That’s putting pressure on profitability.”
