The latest trends and hottest topics for farmers, landowners and investors in agricultural real estate will be addressed during two seminars presented in August by Peoples Company and Total Realty Co.

The 2015 Big Questions Seminars – with a focus on the direction of the land market in relation to advancing technologies and aggressive societal demands – will look into competing solutions and expanding alternatives to increase profitability and improve the sustainability of farmland.

Each of the educational and networking events will include discussions on enhancing rental returns – amid falling corn and soybeans prices – as well as who pays to implement conservation and sustainability practices, and where the land market is headed. Those scheduled to speak include Dr. David Muth, a senior vice president with AgSolver, Inc., along with Peoples Company Land Manager Mollie Aronowitz and the company’s president, Steve Bruere.

“Precision ag, big data and calls for improved water quality are converging at a seemingly accelerated rate,” Bruere said. “These are complex times with unique challenges associated with reducing costs, improving fertility and shoring up incomes, all while protecting the long-term health and productivity of soil. We know this is doable. Our approach is to consider all of the interdependencies when asking how to manage land responsibly, and for superior appreciation.”

The Big Questions Seminars will feature special presentations, by Sean McMahon of Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance and Nick Goeser of Soil Health Partnership, on August 25 and August 27, respectively. They will reflect on lawsuits filed by Des Moines Water Works Park against the trustees of three Iowa counties – over the role that the utility says agriculture plays in the nitrate pollution of the city’s drinking water – and lead discussions in regards to how this action impacts land management decisions.

Both events – scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. – are free and open to those with an interest in farm production, landownership or agricultural real estate. Appetizers will be served. To register for the August 25 seminar at the West Des Moines Marriott, email Becky@PeoplesCompany.com, or call (855) 800-5263. Email Total@TotalRealty.com, or call (563) 659-8185, to register for the seminar on August 27 at the DeWitt Community Center.