The Impact of COVID-19 and Economic Policies on Nebraska Farm Real Estate in 2021

Land industry professionals responding to the annual survey attributed the rise in Nebraska farm real estate values to current interest rate levels, crop prices, and COVID-19 disaster assistance payments provided to operators across the state. These forces substantially impacted farm and ranch finances across Nebraska. Operators faced an exceptional amount of risk and uncertainty when navigating production decisions during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lower interest rates and disaster assistance payments provided stability to an industry facing an unpreceded economic shutdown and disruptions of supply chains.