Water Availability and Trade Uncertainty Pressure Farmland Market Values

Jeramy Stephens of National Land Realty breaks down current trends in the farmland real estate market and how landowners should consider water availability and its impact on land values as they plan for the year ahead.

LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS (RFD NEWS) — Correctly pricing property is a top priority for landowners this year, as factors like water availability and trade uncertainty continue to influence farmland values and investor interest. Producers and buyers alike are closely watching how these elements may impact the market moving forward.

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to provide insight into the current state of the farmland market.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Stephens discussed how access to water plays a key role in determining land value, particularly in regions where irrigation and reliable water sources directly affect productivity. He also addressed the impact of trade policy and economic uncertainty on land sales, noting that concerns about producer profitability can influence buyer confidence and pricing trends. Despite these challenges, Stephens said the market is seeing steady activity from both producers and investors looking for long-term opportunities in agricultural land.

Stephens also offered guidance to those navigating the farmland market, encouraging buyers and sellers to stay informed, carefully evaluate regional factors, and work with knowledgeable professionals to make strategic decisions.

Related Stories
PLC and NCBA Chief Counsel Kaitlynn Glover reacts to the USDA’s new Grazing Action Plan, regulatory relief for ranchers, and the industry’s efforts to improve access to public lands.
On this week’s Rural Health Matters, Dr. Jeffrey Gold raises awareness about Parkinson’s disease, shares insights on early detection, and offers guidance for patients and families in rural communities.
Texas Farm Bureau intern Jazmine Gutierrez-Davila uses her background and bilingual skills to connect kids to agriculture while attending Rodeo Austin’s Livestock Show.
Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue joined us to discuss wildfire recovery efforts in the state, impacts to agriculture, and conditions heading into the spring planting season.
Free program connects families to more than 100 farms with a new interactive app experience
Building on the USDA’s recently released Grazing Action Plan, the agreement formalizes collaboration between the USDA, Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management to ensure more efficient, transparent, and responsive grazing management across federal lands.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The plant is expected to officially close by April 7, 2026, marking the end of more than a century of food processing in the region.
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.
Dr. Gold encouraged farmers and ranchers to prioritize eye safety in their daily routines, offering his expertise to help reduce risks on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Dave Duquette, founder of Western Justice, joined us to discuss wolf management, rancher concerns, efforts to return control to the states, and his upcoming documentary, “Wolves: True Conflict.”
Citrus production depends heavily on reliable irrigation, making water shortages a critical issue for South Texas growers moving forward.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, in consultation with the U.S. Department of Energy and under the Clean Air Act, approved the temporary measure to help stabilize fuel supplies and reduce costs for consumers.