Request for Information: IDNR Agricultural Lease Program

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) regarding its agricultural lease program. IDNR is seeking input on the potential to allow renewals or longer terms on its agricultural leases, which are currently limited to a four-year fixed term at a fixed rate. IDNR is interested in understanding how to fairly assess payment terms for longer-term leases, with the option for increased or decreased payments based on market conditions. The RFI includes a survey with questions related to preferred rent payment dates, use of electronic/internet formats for reporting and submitting documents, notification preferences, payment methods, willingness to submit yield reports, and opinions on how a new bid price should be formed for lease renewals. Additionally, IDNR is seeking input on the types of crops lessees would be willing to grow, the importance of soil health and cover crops, and any additional assistance the IDNR Agricultural Lease Program could provide.

This RFI is not a solicitation, and no information will be accepted once the bid is opened. Respondents are requested to provide their input by the end of business on April 21, 2022, either via the referenced BidBuy number or by mailing their responses to the IDNR office in Springfield, Illinois. There are no set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, and no information is provided about incumbent vendors or current contractors. The RFI does not include any possible award values or budget ranges.