As the agricultural calendar turns to spring, Iowa is preparing for a series of farmland auctions scheduled for April 2025. These events promise to bring together buyers and sellers from across the state and beyond. With over 2,900 acres up for auction, these sales will span multiple counties, including Greene and Osceola. The offerings include large estates with hundreds of acres as well as smaller parcels suitable for individual or family farming operations. Each tract carries its own unique features, such as varying soil quality ratings, conservation program enrollments, and even residential properties.

In Greene County, one of the most notable auctions involves eight tracts totaling 534 acres. This public sale, organized by Peoples Co., will take place on April 3 at the Churdan Community Room. Participants can bid either in person or online. The bidding process employs the "Buyer's Choice" method for Tracts 1 through 7, allowing the highest bidder to select any combination of tracts at their winning price per acre. Tract 8, featuring three acres alongside a single-family home and outbuildings, will be sold after the initial seven tracts have been purchased. Matt Adams, representing Peoples Co., emphasized the historical significance of this land, which has remained within the same family for generations. The first seven tracts vary in size and soil quality, offering a diverse range of options for potential buyers.

Meanwhile, in Osceola County, another significant auction is set for April 10. Here, more than 400 acres are available, divided into six tracts. Buyers may participate both in person and virtually, with the event hosted at the Sibley American Legion. Andrew Zellmer of Peoples Co. highlighted the high-quality nature of the land, particularly Tracts 1 through 4, which form a contiguous half-section with exceptional CSR2 ratings. Despite being marketed toward larger buyers, the division into 80-acre tracts ensures accessibility for smaller operators. Tracts 5 and 6 present further opportunities with top-tier soil ratings, making them attractive to those seeking prime agricultural land. All tracts come with crop-share leases for the 2025 growing season, providing financial incentives for new owners.

Beyond these two major auctions, additional sales are planned throughout Iowa during April. These include various methods of bidding, ranging from traditional in-person auctions to sealed bids. Some tracts offer recreational and hunting possibilities, broadening their appeal beyond strictly agricultural interests. These diverse offerings underscore the dynamic nature of Iowa’s agricultural landscape and the ongoing demand for productive farmland.

Ahead of the auctions, excitement builds among stakeholders anticipating the outcomes. Whether driven by expanding existing holdings or entering the market for the first time, participants face an array of choices reflecting different priorities and needs. As these transactions unfold, they not only signify changes in land ownership but also highlight the enduring importance of agriculture in shaping Iowa’s economy and communities.