By Scout Nelson
Kansas State University (K-State) is putting the spotlight on the evolving nature of land ownership in Kansas. On Nov. 10, they're kicking off their first-ever Kansas Landowner Conference. The event, set in the K-State Alumni Center in Manhattan, Kan., aims to discuss pressing topics like agricultural land market trends, property tax rules, and the art of fostering good relationships between landowners and tenants.
Robin Reid, a K-State agricultural expert, points out a concerning trend: a rise in landowners who aren't closely tied to agriculture either by location or generation. It's a shift from 2015 data that showed 85% of the state's land was owned by Kansas residents. Fast forward to 2022, and more of this land now belongs to those outside the state.
This could be due to inheritance, recreation purposes, or as an investment. Amidst these changes, questions about land leases and Kansas lease law have surged.
Ashlee Westerhold director of the Office of Farm and Ranch Transition in the K-State Department of Agricultural Economics emphasizes that 66% of Kansas farms are under the ownership of those 55 years and older. This suggests that in the coming 15 years, as these owners approach 70, a massive transfer of land ownership from one generation to the next is on the horizon.
Those who want to attend can register online by Nov. 1 for $250.
Photo Credit: Kansas State University
Categories: Kansas, Education