Some findings include:

  • A majority of non-operator landowners live an average of 15 miles away from their land.
  • More than half have farmed themselves, and 1/4 have helped their parents farm.
  • They own a median of 171 acres, 150 of which are farmed.
  • 96% report considering soil quality when making management decisions.
  • Less than 1/3 consider it a long-term real estate investment.
  • 84% of them are in year-to-year leases with their operators…
  • But 81% were willing to offer longer leases for the sake of improved conservation.