Nebraska Grazing Rates and Ranch Leases

Nebraska grazing rates and ranch lease terms vary widely across the state and reflect differences in forage quality, regional demand, stocking rates, and market conditions. According to Nebraska land-value and rental surveys, pasture cash rental rates per acre and per cow-calf pair differ significantly by district — for example, average pasture cash rents range regionally from around $16/acre in the northwest to $65+/acre in the eastern and southeastern regions, and monthly grazing charges per cow-calf pair often fall in the $60–$80 range depending on location and forage quality during the typical 5-month grazing season.

Because conditions vary so much from one piece of ground to the next, local negotiation between landowner and rancher is critical. Lease terms should clearly define how many animal units the pasture can support (stocking rate), the grazing period, who is responsible for maintaining fences and cattle water, and how liability is handled if livestock are injured or escape. Including provisions for drought, weed or brush control, and utility costs for wells can also help prevent conflicts and ensure the lease fairly reflects the property’s value and management responsibilities.