ASFMRA Farmland Market Outlook: Water Availability and Climate Pressures Drive Arizona Land Values

ASFMRA’s Shawn Wood joins us to discuss farmland market trends in Arizona and the key factors shaping land values and water-driven decision-making.

southwest_arizona desert sunset catus_adobe stock.png

Adobe Stock

BUCKEYE, ARIZONA (RFD NEWS) — A range of factors is shaping farmland and ranch real estate activity across Arizona, where unique water and climate conditions continue to influence buyer demand and land values.

Shawn Wood with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to provide an update on current market conditions in the state.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Wood discussed what is currently driving activity in Arizona’s farmland and ranch sales market, including how evolving conditions are shaping buyer demand and pricing across different regions. He also addressed the ongoing challenges of water availability and climate pressures in Arizona agriculture, and how these factors are influencing farming operations and long-term land-use decisions.

Wood further explained the importance of Colorado River water to the state, noting its role in supporting both agricultural production and urban demand, and discussed what could be at stake if those supplies are reduced.

Finally, he touched on whether recent border closures and enforcement changes are having any impact on real estate markets, particularly in rural and border-area communities.

Related Stories
ASFMRA’s Howard Halderman gives an update on Corn Belt farmland values, buyer activity, and what to expect for the rest of 2026 as geopolitical tensions and bridge payments move
Farmers this year will finally be able to update their base acres with the USDA, something that experts warn must be done with complete accuracy.
Moody Blooms grows more than 20 varieties of tulips and has opened its farm to the public as a spring agritourism destination in Texas.
“Cow goggles” are helping farmers experience cattle vision in real time, offering new tools to reduce stress, improve movement, and enhance livestock management.
National FFA Organization CEO Scott Stump has been inducted as an honorary member of Purdue’s Alpha Gamma Rho chapter, recognizing his leadership in agriculture.
K-State’s Dr. Gregg Ibendahl breaks down the impacts of the Middle East ceasefire on energy markets and input costs, and what farmers should watch in the weeks ahead.

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:

Farmer John Jenkinson shares the latest on planting conditions in Kansas and what producers are facing this season.
Rising input costs may squeeze margins and shift planting decisions. Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association discusses fertilizer market pressures and what is at stake for farmers as planting season ramps up.
Texas ranchers and lawmakers warn of renewed New World screwworm risks, highlighting prevention efforts, border concerns, and the role of sterile flies in protecting U.S. livestock.
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch discusses the USDA’s request for feedback on data and research, how such requests work, and what farmers should know about submitting comments before the Thursday, April 9 deadline.
Georgia Ag Commissioner Tyler Harper explains the growing threat of invasive hornets in his state and what Southeastern growers should watch for this spring.
Shaun Haney with Real Ag Radio joined us to break down the USMCA review and what Canadian producers and exporters should be watching in the months ahead.