ASFMRA: The Biggest Issues Impacting California Farmland Values

ASFMRA’s Tony Toso joins us with an update on California farmland values, ongoing market uncertainty, and key discussions shaping agriculture in the Golden State.

central valley_ca_farmher_S6E1_shanley-farms.jpg

A View of California’s Central Valley (FarmHER Season 6, Episode 1 featuring Megan Shanley Warren)

FarmHER, Inc.

MODESTO, CALIF. (RFD NEWS) — Ongoing uncertainty in agriculture—from spring weather patterns to global events impacting input prices—is creating ripple effects across market trends and land values.

Tony Toso with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report from Modesto to share the latest insights from his region.

In his interview with RFD News, Toso discussed the California Chapter Spring Outlook Conference, highlighting key conversations taking place among ag professionals. He also previewed expectations for the upcoming Outlook 2026 Agribusiness Conference and Trends Report, including what speakers may address regarding land values and commodity trends across California.

Toso touched on his involvement in educational efforts this week, including teaching a conservation easement appraisal course, and explained why the topic is increasingly important for landowners and the broader ag industry. He also shared what attendees are seeing firsthand during the ag tour in the Modesto area, offering a closer look at conditions on the ground.

Related Stories
The Midwest event will feature hundreds of horses and offer nationwide bidding access to participants
Nebraska Cattle Rancher Joe Van Newkirk shares his firsthand insight on devastating wildfires in the Sandhills, discusses challenges facing ranchers, long-term calf health concerns, and the recovery efforts underway.
Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association President Craig Uden shares the latest on Nebraska wildfire conditions, discusses challenges facing producers, and outlines relief efforts underway.
Agricultural groups warn that the deal could limit competition and raise transportation costs for farmers
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the updates to crop insurance subsidies, additional benefits for new farmers, and eligibility considerations for those entering the program.

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:

Governor Jim Pillen joined us to share the latest on the Nebraska wildfires, discuss relief efforts, and outline considerations for producers navigating the ongoing situation.
Biofuel policy decisions may influence planting economics. Today, March 18, is also National Biodiesel Day.
Bryan Combs with USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service breaks down new farmland data from the TOTAL survey, highlights key findings, and potential impacts for the ag sector. ASFMRA’s David Klein also shares how those trends are reflected in the current farmland market, especially in the Midwest.
Geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt fertilizer shipments, raising costs and creating uncertainty for U.S. farmers ahead of planting season.
APHIS Veterinary Medical Officer Dr. Chelsey Shiveley discusses USDA’s biosecurity resources available to poultry producers ahead of spring migration, increasing the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) threatens commercial flocks.
Even some Democrats have expressed support for dismantling cartel operations. South Texas Congressman Vicente Gonzalez said he agrees with Trump on the issue.