Farmers likely to seek lower land rental rates in 2026

Cropland rental talks in Minnesota are heading into a tougher season. After a couple of strong income years, farmers are now facing softer corn and soybean prices that make 2026 agreements harder to balance. Extension educator Nathan Hulinsky is urging landowners and producers to start with clear numbers and honest conversations, especially as land values stay firm and break-even prices outpace market returns. His message is practical: when margins shrink, transparency matters, and written agreements can help both sides land on something fair. Michael Johnson with AGWEEK has the full story.