Andrew Huber

Written By: Illinois Land Broker, Andrew Huber. The Changing Face of Farmland Ownership in Illinois: What It Means for Rural Land Buyers and Sellers I’ve been following **Illinois Farmland Ownership Trends** for some time now, and I recently came across some interesting insights. While absentee landownership is on the rise, it’s important to note that the top 10 absentee landowners control only about 1% of the state’s total farmland. The majority of land is still owned by local farmers and families, which keeps that important connection between the land and the people who work it alive (AgriMarketing, ISPFMRA). The Rise of Absentee Landowners in Illinois Absentee landowners—those who own the land but don’t farm it themselves—are becoming more prominent in Illinois. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for example, owns over 53,000 acres of farmland in the state. What a lot of people don’t know is that the church has historical ties to Illinois, dating back to the 1840s when Brigham Young led its members westward from here (Deseret News). Paul Pittman, founder of Farmland Partners, is another big player. He grew up in a farm family right here in Illinois and now owns around 38,000 acres of land in the state, most of which is leased to local farmers (Farmland Partners). The Scully family, known for leasing farmland to local operators for generations, also plays a significant role in Illinois agriculture (AgriMarketing). What This Means for Local Sellers If you’re considering selling your land, don’t let the rise in absentee landownership discourage you. In fact, it presents a great opportunity. Many absentee owners lease their land to local farmers, and they’re looking for well-managed, productive properties. This is your chance to highlight not only the agricultural value of your land but also its potential as a long-term investment. At LandGuys, we understand the emotional and financial value tied to your land. Whether you’re selling a family farm or a larger tract of land, our team connects you with buyers who recognize and appreciate the importance of rural property. With farmland continuing to grow as a stable investment, now is the time to showcase your land’s potential (Forbes). What This Means for Buyers For those looking to buy, the fact that absentee owners hold only 1% of Illinois farmland is reassuring. Most of the land is still in the hands of local farmers and families, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to invest in productive agricultural land. Whether you're expanding your operation or looking for a solid investment, farmland remains a sought-after commodity, both for farming and as a long-term asset (AgriMarketing). Building Strong Connections Between Owners and Buyers One thing I’ve always believed is that rural real estate is built on relationships. Even though absentee ownership is on the rise, Illinois farmland remains closely tied to local communities. Owners like Paul Pittman and the Scully family maintain strong connections to Illinois and lease much of their land to local farmers. Building these relationships is key to exploring leasing or purchasing opportunities, and we at LandGuys pride ourselves on making those connections. Your Land is Still in Demand Even though the ownership landscape is changing, one thing remains clear: Illinois farmland is still in high demand. Whether you’re looking to sell or buy, now is the time to capitalize on this interest. At LandGuys, we specialize in rural real estate and are here to help you navigate this evolving market and make the most of your land. Get to Know Andrew Huber. Andrew brings a deep-rooted passion for the outdoors and a robust background in agriculture to the team. Hailing from Elmwood, IL, his childhood immersed in nature ignited a career path dedicated to connecting individuals with the ideal and profitable rural properties. Armed with a degree in Agronomy Management and Ag Business, Andrew’s unique blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience positions him as a key player in the pursuit of clients’ land aspirations. Andrew provides clients with unparalleled insights and opportunities in the realm of rural properties. Whether you’re seeking advice on maximizing property potential or exploring profitable land investments, the Andrew stands ready to guide you with passion, precision, and a shared commitment to excellence. Stay connected with Andrew, be sure to follow him on Facebook, and Instagram. Sources:  Holly Spangler, “Who owns the most farmland in Illinois?” Prairie Farmer. https://www.agrimarketing.com/s/150857  Deseret News, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Farmland Ownership." https://www.deseret.com  Farmland Partners, “Paul Pittman: Executive Chairman.” https://www.farmlandpartners.com  Forbes, “Why Farmland is an Underrated Investment Asset.” https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesfinancecouncil/2023/03/29/why-farmland-is-an-underrated-investment-asset/  Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ISPFMRA), “Absentee Landowners in Illinois.” https://www.ispfmra.org   

Written by: Illinois Land Broker, Andrew Huber. The Carbon Credit Craze: How Can It Benefit You? Recently, there’s been a buzz about companies, municipalities, and institutions investing in programs designed to reduce or remove CO2 through carbon offsetting. By purchasing the rights to these projects, businesses receive carbon credits, which they can use to offset their own daily emissions. Unlocking carbon credit benefits for you means understanding how this program can provide financial opportunities and help mitigate climate change. HOW CAN THIS BENEFIT YOU? Companies with large carbon footprints are eager to purchase these projects. If your operation generates carbon dioxide or methane, or if you own land that could be managed to reduce carbon, there’s a financial opportunity for you. Whether you’re a row crop farmer, work with cattle, or own timberland, this program could provide significant benefits. EVALUATING YOUR CARBON REDUCTION POTENTIAL The American Farmland Trust’s Carbon Reductions Potential Evaluation (CaRPE) tool can help determine if your operation can contribute to reducing greenhouse gases. Farmers can adopt practices like planting cover crops and reducing tillage to increase soil carbon storage. According to a farmland.org article, if Illinois’ 23 million acres implemented these practices, it could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 21 million tons—equivalent to removing over 4.5 million passenger vehicles from Illinois roads for a year. ANAEROBIC DIGESTERS AND RENEWABLE ENERGY Another effective method is using anaerobic digesters, which capture methane from manure and burn it to produce energy. Additionally, wind and solar energy farms are becoming more common, providing clean energy alternatives that offset fossil fuel use. Although these installations can sometimes occupy tillable land, the financial returns often exceed traditional crop revenue. FOREST MANAGEMENT Forest management is another crucial component, focusing on avoiding logging and deforestation. Existing forests are protected, and previously deforested land is replanted with saplings. This not only sequesters carbon but also promotes biodiversity and ecosystem health. ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS Determining the exact amount of carbon credits produced and their value can be challenging. In 2022, carbon credit prices ranged from $8 to $30 per ton, with California averaging around $42 per ton and potential prices skyrocketing to $238 per ton by 2050. These figures represent significant potential income for farmers and businesses. The cost of the project is a key factor influencing the price per ton. CHALLENGES AND CONCERNS However, these projects come with drawbacks. Solar panels and windmills often require large expanses of land, sometimes displacing tillable acreage or pasture. While these installations help reduce our carbon footprint, they can be visually unappealing and consume valuable agricultural land. This raises a critical question: why can’t companies reduce their own greenhouse gas emissions instead of merely buying credits? It’s a point worth considering as we strive for a more sustainable future. GET TO KNOW ANDREW HUBER Andrew brings a deep-rooted passion for the outdoors and a robust background in agriculture to the team. Hailing from Elmwood, IL, his childhood immersed in nature ignited a career path dedicated to connecting individuals with the ideal and profitable rural properties. Armed with a degree in Agronomy Management and Ag Business, Andrew’s unique blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience positions him as a key player in the pursuit of clients’ land aspirations. Andrew provides clients with unparalleled insights and opportunities in the realm of rural properties. Whether you’re seeking advice on maximizing property potential or exploring profitable land investments, the Andrew stands ready to guide you with passion, precision, and a shared commitment to excellence.  Stay connected with Andrew, be sure to follow him on Facebook, and Instagram.

Written By; Illinois Land Broker, Andrew Huber.  What's All the Buzz About? Cicada Broods Emerge Together. If you haven’t heard, cicadas are causing quite a stir in our area. Historic Emergence of Cicada Broods For the first time in 221 years, the 13-year and 17-year cicada broods are emerging together. These cicada broods usually emerge together between nightfall and sunrise, climbing up trees, tall grass, and fence posts to find safe spots to molt away from predators. This mass emergence, numbering in the billions, helps ensure the survival of the next generation. Wildlife Feasts on Cicadas Interestingly, local raccoons have been less of a nuisance in my garden this year. It seems they are feasting on the cicadas that can’t escape from the trees at night. Along with raccoons, birds, bears, fish, and other animals are also making a meal of these insects. “For the first time in 221 years, the 13-year and 17-year cicada broods are emerging together. Billions climb trees and grass at night to molt safely, ensuring their next generation’s survival.” Cicada Mating Rituals Once hatched, cicada wings need time to dry before the males begin their distinctive buzzing mating call. They produce this sound by pushing air through their tymbals, creating a loud squeal. After mating, females head for younger trees or smaller branches, where they cut into the bark to lay their eggs. Each female can lay up to 25 eggs per cut and repeat this process up to 25 times. While this can cause minor damage to trees, it’s generally not a major concern. However, it’s recommended not to plant new trees the same year a brood emerges. Impact on Humans and Plants Cicadas are harmless to humans and plants. Although there have been concerns about potential damage to crops, cicadas primarily feed on tree and shrub sap. After hatching, larvae fall to the ground and burrow in, living off tree root sap for the next 13 or 17 years. This can affect fruit tree production and growth. Observations and Culinary Uses From my own experience digging around my yard and walking through a local park, I’ve noticed just how many cicadas have emerged. Similar to wormholes after a heavy rain, cicadas create noticeable holes in the ground when soil temperatures reach 64 degrees, acting as natural aerators for our soil. Despite their large numbers, they will be gone in a few weeks. Some adventurous places are treating cicadas as a delicacy, serving them as fried appetizers. Reports suggest they taste like asparagus, popcorn, and pine cones. As for me, I’ll stick to a good steak or burger and use cicadas as fishing lures instead. Get to Know Andrew Huber. Andrew brings a deep-rooted passion for the outdoors and a robust background in agriculture to the team. Hailing from Elmwood, IL, his childhood immersed in nature ignited a career path dedicated to connecting individuals with the ideal and profitable rural properties. Armed with a degree in Agronomy Management and Ag Business, Andrew’s unique blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience positions him as a key player in the pursuit of clients’ land aspirations. Andrew provides clients with unparalleled insights and opportunities in the realm of rural properties. Whether you’re seeking advice on maximizing property potential or exploring profitable land investments, the Andrew stands ready to guide you with passion, precision, and a shared commitment to excellence.  Stay connected with Andrew, be sure to follow him on Facebook, and Instagram.