Ann Whitaker

Iowa farmland auction results from June 6–12, 2026, showed strong demand for quality tillable land. The highest sale reached $14,900 per acre in Jasper County, while several Hancock County farms exceeded $12,000 per acre. Productive soils continued to command premium prices, while recreational, CRP, and mixed-use properties traded at lower values based on their intended use. Iowa Farmland Values Hold Steady During Active Auction Week Another week of Iowa farmland auctions provided a clear look at current land values across the state. Sales occurring between June 6 and June 12 included a variety of land types, ranging from highly productive row-crop farms to recreational tracts, CRP acres, and mixed-use properties. As expected, the strongest prices were paid for quality tillable farms. Properties with higher CSR2 ratings continued to attract aggressive bidding from farmers and investors seeking long-term ownership opportunities. Meanwhile, recreational and conservation-focused properties generated healthy interest but sold at values more closely tied to their specific use rather than soil productivity. Productive Tillable Farms Continue to Lead the Market The strongest evidence of buyer demand came from Hancock County and Jasper County. In Hancock County, two highly productive farms sold for more than $12,000 per acre. Both farms featured CSR2 ratings above 90, demonstrating the premium buyers continue to place on quality soils. Jasper County produced one of the week's highest sales when an 87.08-acre development-influenced tract sold for $14,900 per acre. While the farm carried a respectable CSR2 rating of 62.7, its value was clearly enhanced by factors beyond agricultural production. Another 240-acre tillable farm in Jasper County sold for $8,600 per acre, further reinforcing the demand for quality cropland throughout central Iowa. These results continue a trend that has remained consistent across much of the state. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for productive farmland that offers reliable long-term income potential. Recreational and CRP Properties Show Consistent Buyer Interest Not every buyer is focused solely on crop production. Several recreational and CRP properties sold during the reporting period, demonstrating continued interest in alternative land investments. In Henry County, a CRP tract sold for $5,725 per acre, while a smaller CRP and recreational property brought $8,400 per acre. The higher sale price of the smaller tract highlights an important market dynamic. Recreational properties often appeal to a broader buyer pool, including hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a manageable rural investment. As a result, recreational value can sometimes outweigh agricultural value when determining final sale prices. Mixed-Use Farms Continue to Fill an Important Market Segment Several properties sold during the week featured a combination of tillable acreage, pasture, recreation, or conservation uses. A 132.32-acre pasture and tillable farm in Jasper County sold for $5,100 per acre. Meanwhile, a 112.43-acre recreation and tillable property in Monroe County sold for $4,875 per acre. These sales illustrate the importance of evaluating each farm individually. While mixed-use properties may not achieve the same values as highly productive tillable farms, they often attract buyers looking for flexibility. Hunting opportunities, livestock production, recreational use, and future ownership goals all influence buyer demand within this segment of the market. What These Sales Tell Us About the Iowa Farmland Market Several key trends emerged from this week's auction results. Quality Soils Still Drive Value The strongest sales occurred on farms with higher CSR2 ratings and strong agricultural productivity. Buyers continue to focus on long-term income potential and crop-producing capability. Location Matters Farmland values remain highly localized. Even within the same county, differences in soil quality, drainage, farm size, and buyer competition can create significant price variations. Development Potential Creates Additional Upside The Jasper County sale at $14,900 per acre serves as a reminder that future development opportunities can substantially increase value beyond agricultural returns alone. Recreational Demand Remains Strong Hunting properties, CRP farms, and recreational tracts continue to attract buyers throughout Iowa. These properties often operate within a different market than traditional row-crop farms and should be evaluated accordingly. Iowa Farmland Market Outlook Based on the June 6–12 auction results, Iowa farmland values remain relatively stable. Demand for productive cropland continues to support strong pricing, while recreational and mixed-use properties maintain steady interest from buyers. Although interest rates, commodity prices, and input costs remain important factors, quality farmland continues to be viewed as a desirable long-term asset. As always, local market conditions matter. Landowners considering a sale should analyze recent comparable sales and evaluate how factors such as CSR2, drainage, location, access, and land use may impact value. Looking for a Farmland Value Estimate? Whitaker Marketing Group specializes in farmland auctions, private listings, sealed bid sales, and land valuations throughout Iowa and the Midwest. If you are considering selling farmland, recreational property, CRP land, or an investment farm, contact our team for a confidential market analysis based on current buyer demand and recent auction results.  

Finding a property that offers a log home, horse facilities, recreational land, and convenient highway access is becoming increasingly difficult. This Crawford County Missouri log home for sale combines all of those features on 66± beautiful acres near Cuba, Missouri. Located at 66 Fish Farm Lane, this Ozark property features a rustic log home, fenced pasture, multiple ponds, mature timber, horse amenities, and a large workshop. Whether you are searching for a full-time residence, hobby farm, horse property, hunting retreat, or weekend getaway, this property offers the versatility many buyers desire. Whitaker Marketing Group is proud to present this unique opportunity in Crawford County, Missouri. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL LISTING!   Where Is This Crawford County Missouri Property Located? The property is located just outside Cuba, Missouri, in the scenic Ozark region of Crawford County. One of the biggest advantages of this property is its location. While the setting feels private and secluded, owners still enjoy quick access to major transportation routes and nearby amenities. Location highlights include: Less than one-half mile from Historic Route 66 Less than one-half mile from Interstate 44 Minutes from downtown Cuba, Missouri Easy access to St. Louis and Springfield Private country setting with beautiful Ozark views Properties that offer both privacy and convenience are becoming harder to find, making this location especially attractive. Rustic Log Home with Ozark Charm At the heart of the property sits a rustic log home built in 2000. The home offers approximately 1,700 square feet of living space and blends beautifully with the surrounding landscape. Inside, you'll find warm wood finishes, exposed beams, and an open-concept design that creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Home features include: 3 bedrooms 3 full bathrooms Open-concept floor plan Metal roof Central air conditioning Propane heat Well water Walk-out basement with storage space Free-standing gas range Microwave The layout offers flexibility for families, guests, or anyone looking for a peaceful country lifestyle.   66± Acres of Recreation and Natural Beauty The land itself is one of the property's greatest assets. Rolling terrain, mature timber, open pasture, and multiple ponds create a diverse landscape that can be enjoyed year-round. The combination of habitat types also attracts wildlife and enhances the recreational appeal of the property. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate opportunities for: Hunting Fishing Horseback riding ATV riding Hiking Wildlife watching Camping Hobby farming The property's natural beauty makes it easy to enjoy everything the Ozarks have to offer right outside your front door. Multiple Ponds Add Beauty and Function Water features are always desirable on rural properties, and this acreage offers multiple ponds throughout the property. The ponds provide scenic views while also offering practical benefits for livestock, wildlife, and recreation. Whether you're casting a fishing line, watching wildlife, or simply enjoying the peaceful setting, the ponds enhance the overall appeal of the property. Properties with quality water features continue to attract strong interest from buyers across Missouri. Large 2,400 Square Foot Workshop In addition to the home and acreage, the property includes an approximately 2,400-square-foot workshop. This versatile building offers plenty of room for: Equipment storage Farm tools Recreational vehicles Horse equipment Hobby projects Small business operations Large outbuildings are highly sought after by rural property buyers, and this workshop adds significant value and functionality to the property.   Why Buyers Love Crawford County and Cuba, Missouri Crawford County continues to attract buyers looking for country homes, recreational land, horse properties, and hobby farms. The area's rolling hills, timbered landscapes, outdoor recreation opportunities, and convenient highway access make it one of the most desirable regions in the Missouri Ozarks. Cuba, Missouri offers small-town charm while providing access to restaurants, schools, shopping, healthcare, and everyday conveniences. The property's location near Interstate 44 also allows owners to travel easily throughout the region. For buyers seeking a balance of privacy, recreation, and convenience, Crawford County remains a popular destination. Property Highlights 66± acres in Crawford County, Missouri Located near Cuba, Missouri Rustic log home built in 2000 Approximately 1,700 square feet 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms Open-concept floor plan Exposed beams and wood finishes Unique stone fireplace with Native American artifacts Metal roof Walk-out basement Central air conditioning Fully fenced property Horse-ready acreage Multiple ponds Mature timber Rolling Ozark terrain 2,400-square-foot workshop Less than one-half mile from Historic Route 66 Less than one-half mile from Interstate 44 Cuba School District Annual taxes of approximately $1,281 Schedule Your Private Showing Properties that combine a log home, horse amenities, ponds, timber, pasture, and a large workshop are increasingly difficult to find in today's market. This Crawford County Missouri log home for sale offers a rare opportunity to own a versatile 66± acre property in one of the most desirable areas of the Missouri Ozarks. To schedule a private showing or learn more about this property, contact: Kelly Johnston Whitaker Marketing Group Phone: (314) 412-2288 Email: kelly@wmgauction.com Experience the beauty, privacy, and potential of this exceptional Crawford County property for yourself.

Trees and fence lines are common across Midwest farmland. While they can provide wildlife habitat, wind protection, and visual appeal, they can also impact crop production more than many people realize. Research has shown that mature tree lines can significantly reduce crop yields along field edges. Farmland Fact Video If you prefer to watch instead of read, you can view the short video below. Prefer YouTube? Watch the video here How Much Yield Is Lost Near Trees? According to research from Indiana University, corn yields within approximately 45 feet of mature tree lines can be reduced by as much as 48.5%. This yield reduction occurs because trees compete with crops for sunlight, water, and nutrients. In addition, shade from the tree canopy can limit crop growth throughout the growing season. Why Do Trees Affect Crop Production? Trees have extensive root systems that often extend well beyond the visible canopy. As a result, nearby crops must compete for moisture and nutrients during critical growth periods. Furthermore, shading can reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the crop, especially during key stages of development. Together, these factors can create noticeable yield reductions along field edges. What Does This Mean for Farmers? Understanding edge effects can help farmers evaluate field productivity and management decisions. While trees provide environmental and wildlife benefits, they can also influence the profitability of adjacent acres. Consequently, some landowners choose to evaluate tree lines when considering conservation practices, field improvements, or long-term management strategies. Why This Matters to Landowners Farmland value is often tied to productivity. Even small areas of reduced yield can impact overall field performance over time. Therefore, understanding how trees affect crop production helps landowners make more informed decisions about their property and its long-term management. The Bigger Takeaway Trees can provide many benefits to a farm. However, research suggests that mature tree lines may reduce corn yields by as much as 48.5% within 45 feet of the field edge. Understanding both the advantages and tradeoffs of tree lines can help farmers and landowners better evaluate farmland productivity and value. This post is part of our Farmland Facts series, where we share clear, practical insights that help landowners, buyers, and investors better understand what drives farmland value and land ownership decisions.