Farmland plays a critical role in food production and rural economies. It also influences long-term land ownership decisions.
The Farmland Facts series shares short, data-driven insights. As a result, landowners, buyers, and investors can make smarter decisions with greater confidence.
Latest Farmland Facts
Each post focuses on one clear takeaway about farmland, tillable acres, ownership, or value. In addition, every fact is designed to be quick to read and easy to share.
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- Farmland Fact #1: Only 11% of the World’s Land Is Tillable Only a small portion of the world’s land can reliably grow crops. Therefore, productive farmland carries long-term importance, especially in the Midwest. Read Farmland Fact #1
- Farmland Fact #2: Landlocked Property Can Gain Legal Access Through Condemnation Easements Understanding access rights helps protect farmland value and prevent costly surprises. Read Farmland Fact #2
- Farmland Fact #3: Iowa Farmland Generates Billions in Annual Rental Income Leased farmland produces significant annual revenue. At the same time, it remains a long-term appreciating asset. Read Farmland Fact #3
- Farmland Fact #4: Tile Drainage in the U.S. Equals Enough Pipe to Circle the Earth 120 Times Modern tile drainage plays a major role in improving soil productivity. In turn, it helps protect crop yields across U.S. farmland. Read Farmland Fact #4
- Farmland Fact #5: Midwest Soils Are Significantly Deeper Than Much of the World Much of the Midwest has soil depths of three to six feet. Because of this, farmland often has a natural advantage in productivity and long-term stability. Read Farmland Fact #5
- Farmland Fact #6: Midwest Farmland Has Averaged 10–12% Annual Returns Over 30 Years Over time, farmland ownership combines appreciation and cash rent. As a result, it has produced competitive long-term returns. Read Farmland Fact #6
- Farmland Fact #7: Farmers Attend Conferences to Adapt as Margins Tighten As margins shift, agricultural events help operators explore equipment, learn new practices, and adjust strategies. Read Farmland Fact #7
- Farmland Fact #8: Iowa Farmland Rarely Hits the Public Market (Week 8) Because of generational ownership and limited public listings, quality land remains in strong demand. Read Farmland Fact #8
- Farmland Fact #9: Snow Cover Reduces Frost Depth and Impacts Spring Erosion (Week 9) Snow can insulate soil during winter. However, the speed of spring melt affects runoff and erosion risk across Midwest fields. Read Farmland Fact #9
- Farmland Fact #10: Coming Soon!
