State of Illinois

07/07/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/07/2026 08:29

IDNR to accept bids for agriculture leases at state sites

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will accept sealed bids this fall for about 40 agricultural lease contracts for the 2027-2031 crop years.

The department uses agricultural leases to support wildlife populations and recreational opportunities at sites it owns or manages. The leases promote environmentally sound farming practices that improve soil health, reduce soil erosion, enhance water quality and minimize chemical impacts benefiting wildlife and habitat.

Available agricultural leases will be announced on BidBuy, the State of Illinois' online procurement system. A vendor conference will be held for each lease offered for bid. Conference details will be included in the public notice.


All bidders must register through BidBuy to be eligible to enter into a contract with the state. When prompted for a NIGP code, select 944-00 (Farming and Ranching) and 944-48 (Hay Farming). Additional applicable codes include 944-34 (Corn Farming), 944-76 (Soybean Farming) and 944-38 (Crop Farming NEC and Grain Farming NEC).

Once registered, prospective bidders will receive email notifications when agricultural lease opportunities are posted. Bidders should download and print the required forms from BidBuy before attending the vendor conference.


For more information, visit the IDNR agriculture lease website or contact the individual listed for each lease opportunity in BidBuy.

About IDNR


The Illinois Department of Natural Resources was established in 1925 as the Illinois Department of Conservation, bringing under one umbrella oversight of fish and game, forestry, public works, and lakes. Today, IDNR's work encompasses management of about 400 sites across Illinois, including state parks and historic sites; wildlife, fisheries, forestry, and natural heritage; Lake Michigan water allocation and coastal management; conservation police; mines and minerals; oil and gas; issuance of licenses, permits, and numerous grants; the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta; and the Illinois State Museum. Visit https://dnr.illinois.gov and follow us on Facebook , YouTube and LinkedIn .
State of Illinois published this content on July 07, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on July 07, 2026 at 14:30 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]