A share farming agreement template serves as a foundational document for establishing a collaborative agricultural venture between a landowner and a farmer. This template outlines the terms and conditions governing the shared use of land, labor, and resources, ensuring a clear understanding of the partnership’s expectations and responsibilities. To create a professional and effective share farming agreement template, consider the following essential elements:
1. Identifying Parties
Short-Form Contract Farming Agreement PDF Agriculture Receipt
Landowner: Clearly specify the name and contact information of the individual or entity who owns the land.
Farmer: Provide the name and contact information of the individual or group who will be cultivating the land.
2. Land Description
Legal Description: Include a precise legal description of the land, such as a metes and bounds description or a reference to a recorded plat or deed.
Location: Specify the geographic location of the land, including the state, county, and any relevant landmarks or addresses.
Size: Indicate the total acreage of the land to be farmed.
Use Restrictions: Outline any specific restrictions or limitations on the land’s use, such as zoning regulations or conservation easements.
3. Term of Agreement
Start Date: Clearly define the beginning date of the share farming agreement.
End Date: Specify the anticipated end date of the agreement, which may be a fixed term or contingent upon certain conditions.
Renewal Options: If applicable, outline the process for renewing the agreement beyond the initial term.
4. Share Allocation
Crop Share: Determine the percentage of the harvested crop that each party will receive. This can be based on factors such as labor contributions, capital investments, or other agreed-upon criteria.
Expense Sharing: Specify how expenses related to farming operations, such as seeds, fertilizer, and equipment, will be divided between the parties.
5. Farming Operations
Crop Selection: Outline the types of crops that will be cultivated on the land.
Farming Practices: Describe the farming methods and techniques that will be used, including planting schedules, pest control measures, and harvesting procedures.
Equipment and Supplies: Specify who will provide the necessary equipment and supplies for farming operations.
Insurance: Address the issue of crop insurance and determine who will be responsible for obtaining and paying for coverage.
6. Labor and Management
Labor Contributions: Define the labor responsibilities of each party, including the number of hours worked, specific tasks, and any required certifications or licenses.
Management Responsibilities: Outline who will have primary responsibility for making decisions regarding farming operations, such as crop selection, planting schedules, and pest control.
7. Dispute Resolution
Mediation: Establish a mediation process to resolve disputes between the parties without resorting to litigation.
Arbitration: If mediation fails, specify a binding arbitration process to settle disputes.
8. Termination
Grounds for Termination: Outline the circumstances under which either party may terminate the agreement, such as breach of contract or failure to meet obligations.
Notice Requirements: Specify the notice period required to terminate the agreement.
9. Force Majeure
Excused Performance: Address events beyond the control of the parties, such as natural disasters or acts of war, that may excuse performance of the agreement.
10. Entire Agreement
Merger Clause: Indicate that the agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the parties and supersedes any prior or contemporaneous agreements.
Jurisdiction: Specify the governing law that will apply to the agreement.
12. Signatures
Execution: Provide a space for both parties to sign the agreement, along with their printed names and dates.
By carefully addressing these key elements, you can create a professional share farming agreement template that provides a clear and comprehensive framework for your agricultural partnership.