Orchards and Vineyards
   

 
Bee visits cherry tree blossoms in cherry orchard.
 
Orchard and vineyard leases on state trust land have historically been used to permit longer-term crops, such as tree fruit (apples, cherries, pears, peaches, etc.), vineyards and other perennial crops, such as blueberries)
 
  • DNR typically issues orchard and vineyard leases for 25-year terms.
     
  • Entities who are willing to agree upon a cash rent per acre may receive preference over those seeking percentage leases.
     
  • When existing leases expire, DNR may choose to re-authorize the approved crop uses and negotiate with the lessee (WAC 332-22-100) or it may allow the lease to go to public auction.
     
  • DNR is obligated to consider access and irrigation methods for its parcels in the lease authorization process. Entities who would provide permanent access, and permanent methods of irrigation, where the State currently has limited or none, may be given preference.
 
FNDING A LEASE
If you are interested in leasing state trust lands for orchard or vineyard crops, please use our Interactive Map Viewing Tool to find leases due to expire this year. Look for leases marked as “Open for Lease Application” and submit a Bonus Bid Application during the dates indicated. Download a Bonus Bid Application. Other agriculture properties may be identified as “Public Auction." See a list of parcels identified for Public Auction.
 
Get help using the viewing tool: Basic User Guide or Detailed User Guide.