Do you REALLY want to sign up for that "conservation" program?

A candid list of questions for you to consider BEFORE signing up for a government program, or making an agreement with non-profit corporation to place an easement or other restrictions on your property.

Prepared by LAND (Landowners Association of North Dakota)



LANDOWNER CHECKLIST
THINK before you SIGN!
Here’s a few questions to ask yourself - and even your family - BEFORE you sign up for new programs. <


Do you understand ALL of the language of this program, especially definitions? Is a set of definitions attached to the agreement? If not, be aware that different people may define “normal farming practices” (or other wording) differently than you do.

Did you take notes when at FSA or NRCS office when administrators are explaining the program? Did you ask questions? Do you have ALL of the information IN WRITING?

Do you know someone with past experience with this program? Will they explain their experience?

Have you weighed the pros and cons of the program? Is it really beneficial for your short-term and long-term goals of your farm or ranch? Do you want to sign a long-term contract for short-term gains?

If this benefits your operation do you really need the government to pay you to implement the practice? Good conservation practices are in the best interest of all farms and ranches.

Will you have “signers remorse,” short-term cash flow, and long-term regret?

How about the next generation? Will long-term easements keep young farmers and ranchers from starting in your area? Will it prevent your children or grandchildren from taking over?

Are you ABSOLUTELY certain you understand the “fine print?” Have you reviewed the contract with an attorney who specializes in land contracts? Have you talked to an accountant who specializes in this type of transaction?

Can this program be changed after you sign? Is it subject to Congress changing agreements in the future before the contract expires?

Are written rules and the opinion and/or implementation of program administrator consistent with your understanding of the program intentions and rules?

If disagreements arise, is there a mediation process?

What exactly is required? If it is not done correctly, what is the penalty?



The Landowners Association of North Dakota (LAND) RECOMMENDS THAT LANDOWNERS NEVER SIGN A PERPETUAL AGREEMENT! Remember, if a program sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are MANY long-term implications of new farm programs and easement programs. Many landowners who signed easements twenty or more years ago, are just now realizing how many of their rights were given away. PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR PROPERTY! MAKE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND AND HAVE EVERYTHING IN WRITING BEFORE YOU SIGN ANYTHING!