Why Does Cropping History Matter When Buying Farmland?

FBN Network

Mar 26, 2024

Cropping history information can be valuable for a farmer who is deciding whether to purchase farmland available for sale. 

Learn more about why farmers deciding on a land purchase should assess cropping history before making a final decision in the free guide Before You Buy: 4 Farmland Factors to Consider from FBN® Finance, or continue reading below to find out what farmers can discover from cropping history.

Why Cropping History Matters

By understanding the cropping history of a particular piece of land, a farmer gains insights into the types of crops that have been grown on the land in the past and can effectively assess the suitability of the land for their specific farming needs.

For example, if the cropping history indicates that the land has been consistently used for growing a specific crop that aligns with the farmer's expertise and market demand, it may be a good indication that the land is well-suited for their farming operations. On the other hand, if the cropping history shows a pattern of unsuccessful or incompatible crops, it may raise concerns about the productivity or suitability of the land for the farmer's intended use.

Additionally, cropping history information can provide insights into the previously implemented management practices on the land, such as the use of fertilizers, pesticides, or irrigation. This information can help the farmer assess the potential impact of these practices on the soil health and overall sustainability of the land.

Land Purchase Decision-Making Factors

Keep in mind that while cropping history information can be a valuable tool in the decision-making process, it should not be the sole factor considered. Other factors include:

  • Soil quality

  • Water availability

  • Proximity to markets

  • Overall farm infrastructure

  • Your financial position 

Download the free guide Before You Buy: 4 Farmland Factors to Consider from FBN Finance to learn more about the critical factors to weigh when deciding on a land purchase. 

Get Cropping History Information with AcreVision℠ from FBN

If you’re looking for cropping history information before making a farmland purchase, AcreVision is an evaluation tool that is available for free to FBN members to help you get the insights you need to make an informed buying decision.

FBN’s innovative farmland evaluation system is designed to assist farmers in making informed decisions about potential land purchases by providing vital insights into specific farmland parcels. This information includes soil types, comparable sales, terrain information, and other details. 

This tool shows historical land use and cropping patterns derived from the Cropland Data Layer (CDL) published by United States Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service (USDA-NASS). The CDL is a crop-specific land cover data layer created annually using moderate resolution satellite imagery. Land use and cropping history data are updated annually on AcreVision℠ in the first quarter of each calendar year when the USDA makes this data available.  

Try AcreVision for free today by clicking here.


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The material provided is for information purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for specific professional advice. Neither Farmer’s Business Network nor any of its affiliates makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements or any information contained in the material and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The information and opinions expressed by others in this material are their own and are not endorsed or approved by FBN or its affiliates.

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FBN Network

Mar 26, 2024

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