2026 U.S. Agricultural Economy Outlook: What Farmers, Lenders, and Landowners Should Expect

2026 ag outlook featured image showing a red barn and silo behind a green crop field under a blue sky

The 2026 ag outlook highlights tighter credit, elevated interest rates, and thinner operating margins—factors that matter to Midwest farmers, lenders, and farmland owners making decisions in 2026. As we move deeper into 2026, producers and landowners must focus on liquidity, debt structure, and long-term positioning rather than short-term optimism. This breakdown covers: 2025 farm income […]

Midwest Farmland Values in 2026 – What Landowners Need to Know

Midwest farmland values 2026 showing Iowa and regional cropland from aerial view

Midwest farmland values continue to show long-term strength and resilience as we enter 2026, even in the face of softer grain margins and economic headwinds. According to the January 2026 Benchmark Farmland Report, farmland across eight Midwest and Plains states remains historically strong, supported by tight land supply, financially stable buyers, and continued producer demand. […]

Iowa Farmland Auction Results – Iowa Land Prices Defy Grain Market Slides

A vibrant red barn and silo surrounded by snow-covered fields under a clear blue winter sky in Iowa.

Iowa Land Prices: January 10-16, 2026 For a look at the previous week’s results, see our Iowa Land Auction Prices, January 3-9, 2026 recap. Every time grain markets dip, the same question pops up: will Iowa land auction prices finally soften? Last week’s auctions answered with a decisive no. Even as corn and soybean futures […]

The Growing Role of Investors in Iowa Farmland Auctions

Iowa farmland has always been at the heart of American agriculture. Traditionally, farms have been passed down through generations of family operators. In recent years, though, a noticeable shift has taken place — investors are playing a much larger role in Iowa’s farmland market. This trend is changing how farmland is bought, sold, and managed. […]

Iowa’s Farmland Transition: What It Means for Buyers and Sellers

Iowa is entering a major farmland transition. With a large share of acres held by older owners and fewer, larger operations doing more of the production, getting a start has never been tougher for beginning farmers. Recently, reporting from The Des Moines Register, combined with new data from Iowa State University and the USDA, highlights […]

The Power of Networking in the Agriculture Industry

Handshake between two agricultural professionals standing in a farm field, symbolizing networking and partnership in the agriculture industry.

Networking is a vital component of success in the agriculture industry, whether you are a farmer, agribusiness owner, or industry professional. In an ever-evolving landscape, building connections can open doors to new opportunities, innovative practices, and long-term partnerships that benefit all stakeholders. Here’s why cultivating a strong network within the ag community is more important […]

What Kind of Fertilizer Should a Farmer Use?

A tractor spreading liquid fertilizer across a harvested field to improve soil nutrients before the next planting season.

For every farmer, selecting the right fertilizer is a key decision that impacts crop health, yield, and the long-term sustainability of the soil. With so many options available, choosing the right fertilizer for your farm depends on several factors, including soil type, crop needs, and environmental conditions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different […]

What Are Easements? A Simple Guide for Landowners

Utility easement with power lines running through farmland beside crop fields and rural homes, illustrating how easements affect land use.

What Is an Easement? An easement is a legal right that lets someone else use a part of your property for a specific purpose. You still own the land, but another person or company may use it for things like utilities or access. For example, a utility company may need to reach power lines on […]

How to Track Commodity Prices and Plan Your Crops Accordingly

Farmer using a tablet to track commodity prices and crop data while standing in a row-crop field at sunrise.

In the ever-evolving world of agriculture, tracking commodity prices is crucial for farmers looking to maximize their profits and make informed decisions about what crops to plant. Commodity prices fluctuate based on a variety of factors including market demand, weather conditions, global trade policies, and economic indicators. By understanding these price trends, farmers can strategically […]

Drones in Modern Farming: Revolutionizing Agriculture

Drone flying over a crop field at sunrise, capturing aerial data for modern precision farming.

The agriculture industry is witnessing a technological revolution, with drones emerging as one of the most transformative tools. Farmers are increasingly using drones to monitor crop health, optimize field management, and even apply fertilizers and pesticides. This technology not only improves efficiency but also enhances the sustainability of farming practices. Here’s how drones are changing […]