With a derecho, a drought and economic problems from the pandemic hammering Iowa agriculture in 2020, it’s a good time for landowners to reach out to their tenants and discuss arrangements to help both sides, according to Steve Johnson, Iowa State University (ISU) Extension farm management specialist.

Many landowners, especially those in parts of the state hit by the Aug. 10 derecho, will need repair work done on their farms, such as clearing downed trees or salvaging wrecked barns, Johnson said. Tenants are likely to be eager to do that additional work in return for a temporary break on their remaining 2020 rent, or on their 2021 lease, he said.

“I think we can turn this into a win-win situation,” Johnson...