AI Tools in Agriculture: Insights From the 2026 ISU Soil Management and Land Valuation Conference

AI technology analyzing crop growth and soil conditions in modern agriculture.

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most important technologies in modern agriculture. From autonomous tractors and crop scouting apps to livestock monitoring and yield prediction, AI tools are beginning to influence how farmers, agronomists, researchers, and agricultural businesses make decisions across the Midwest. During the 2026 ISU Soil Management and Land Valuation Conference, […]

Farm Economy & Land Outlook: What Iowa Landowners and Farmers Should Watch in 2026

Young Iowa corn plants growing in fertile soil at sunrise representing the 2026 farm economy and agricultural outlook.

The 2026 ISU Soil Management and Land Valuation Conference brought together agricultural professionals, landowners, appraisers, lenders, and farm operators to discuss the current state of the farm economy and the future of Iowa farmland values. Conversations throughout the conference focused on commodity markets, cash rents, input costs, global agriculture, and long-term land investment trends shaping […]

What Affects Farmland Value the Most?

Midwest cornfield representing factors that affect farmland value

Understanding the true worth of your rural property requires much more than a simple appraisal. For Midwestern landowners, land is a lifelong investment, a family legacy, and a tangible asset. Determining its exact value means looking at a unique set of variables that go far beyond standard residential real estate metrics. If you are planning […]

Iowa Land Auction Results: May 9–15, 2026 Market Update

Iowa land auction results featured image showing freshly planted Iowa farmland during spring 2026

The Iowa farmland auction market remained active during the week of May 9–15, 2026, with several tillable land sales reported across the state. Recent auction activity in Jasper, Louisa, and Harrison counties continued to show strong demand for productive farmland, especially tracts with quality soils and strong tillable acreage percentages. Although overall auction volume has […]

Why Overpricing Land Can Hurt Your Sale

Overpricing land can cost sellers money and reduce farmland buyer interest

When listing Midwestern farmland or rural property, it is completely natural to want the highest possible return. You have likely spent decades working the soil, or you have just inherited a family legacy that holds immense personal value. Setting a high asking price might seem like a logical starting point to leave room for negotiation. […]

Polk County Iowa Luxury Estate for Sale | 8.26± Acre Home Near West Des Moines

Luxury home for sale on 8.26± acres in West Des Moines Iowa near Maffitt Reservoir

Luxury Acreage Living Near Des Moines Luxury acreage properties continue to attract buyers looking for additional space, privacy, and outdoor amenities while still remaining close to everyday conveniences. In West Des Moines, properties that combine usable acreage, recreational access, updated living spaces, and proximity to the metro area continue to stand out in today’s market. […]

What is a CSR2 Rating? Understanding Iowa Soil Scores

CSR2 rating soil sample showing productive Iowa farmland soils

When evaluating Iowa farmland, one specific metric stands out as a primary indicator of soil quality and yield potential: the CSR2 rating. Whether you are planning for retirement, settling a family estate, or managing your rural property portfolio, knowing the exact productivity level of your soil is essential. A high rating often translates directly to […]

How Experts Determine the True Value of Your Land

Land value in the Midwest farmland market

You have spent years managing, improving, or simply appreciating your rural property. Now that you are considering a transition, one urgent question naturally arises: what is this property actually worth? Figuring out the exact price of Midwestern farmland or recreational ground requires much more than a quick online search. Land is a completely different asset […]

How Location Impacts Your Farmland Sale

How location impacts your farmland sale in the Midwest rural land market

Selling Midwestern farmland requires a clear understanding of what truly drives the market. While crop yields, commodity prices, and interest rates constantly shift, one factor remains permanently fixed: your property’s location. The physical placement of your rural acreage dictates who wants to buy it, how they plan to use it, and what they are willing […]