KANSAS CITY, MO (RFD NEWS) — Ranchland values climbed sharply in the Tenth Federal Reserve District as strong cattle prices continued to support parts of the farm economy.
The Kansas City Federal Reserve says ranchland values rose nearly 11 percent from a year ago, reaching new record highs in early 2026.
Cropland values also improved modestly after recent weakness. Non-irrigated cropland rose about 2.5 percent, while irrigated cropland increased about 4 percent and remained near historic highs.
The farm economy remains split.
The Kansas City Federal Reserve says cattle revenues, government payments, and strong land values are supporting balance sheets, while crop producers still face narrow margins, fertilizer uncertainty, and fuel cost concerns.
Credit conditions continue to show gradual stress. Loan demand increased steadily, repayment rates weakened modestly, and lenders reported that about 20 percent of borrowers had more carryover debt than last year.
Even so, loan denials remained low, and strong farmland values helped keep leverage steady.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong cattle markets are lifting ranchland values, but crop-sector margins and carryover debt still point to financial pressure.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Weather remains the primary driver for wheat price outlook.
March 11, 2026 10:58 AM
·
Acre reporting is crucial to maximize specialty crop aid.
March 11, 2026 10:49 AM
·
For producers, success this season will require more than just a clean field; it will require meticulous record-keeping, a proactive written mitigation plan, and a constant eye on both the forecast and the federal docket.
March 10, 2026 05:04 PM
·
Tidal Grow’s AlignN delivers encapsulated nitrogen to leaves, boosting in-season response, yield gains, and farm profits.
March 10, 2026 04:32 PM
·
HTS Commodities’ Lewis Williamson provides updates on how growers are preparing for spring planting in an unpredictable agricultural landscape.
March 10, 2026 03:45 PM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how geopolitical developments in the Middle East can create energy-driven pressures that impact the supply chain and reshape demand for certain ag products.
March 10, 2026 03:27 PM
·
