ASFMRA Early Spring Farmland Market Update and Growing Season Outlook

Justin Wheeler with the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers joined us with insight into current farmland values and what to watch in the year ahead.

DECATUR, ILL. (RFD NEWS) — The farmland market is beginning to show signs of stabilization after several years of steady growth. While land values remain historically high, several factors are expected to influence the market outlook as the industry looks ahead to 2026.

Justin Wheeler with the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to provide an update on current land values and sales activity.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Wheeler discussed where the market stands today and how recent trends are shaping buyer and seller behavior across farm country. Looking ahead, he shared his outlook on farmland values and outlined additional factors that could affect the market in 2026, along with his perspective for landowners, buyers, and operators navigating decisions in a changing farmland environment.

Related Stories
Markets Analysts and Livestock Experts Say Screwworm Adds Costs for Producers, Not Food Safety Risks
Data centers will continue expanding, but local decisions will determine whether that growth protects agricultural water access or adds stress to already vulnerable production regions.
A long-running poultry waste lawsuit remains unresolved after a federal judge rejected proposed settlements and appeals followed.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

U.S. Wheat Associates is expanding into global fish feed markets, with early gains in South America and new opportunities emerging in Ecuador’s shrimp industry.
Cattle analysts say the U.S. beef cattle herd rebuild still faces major hurdles despite some minor positive signals noted in certain regions.
Dr. Robert Ellis joins us to discuss economic challenges in agriculture, available resources for farmers, and ways producers can evaluate practices to strengthen their operations.
While there is no guarantee a House vote will happen today, the measure has officially been placed on the congressional calendar.
Trucking industry expert Lewie Pugh joins us to discuss rising diesel costs, challenges facing independent truckers, and the broader impact on agriculture and rural transportation.
The White House is reportedly moving forward with beef import tariff reductions as officials look to lower food costs for consumers.