Iowa’s land is primarily used for agriculture, with the majority classified as rural farmland. The state also includes developed areas, forest land, and conservation lands, each playing a role in Iowa’s land-use distribution. The data presented here highlights crop production trends, soil erosion, and land classifications, providing a comprehensive view of how Iowa’s land is utilized and its long-term sustainability.
Land Use in Iowa
Rural farmland dominates land use, with significant portions dedicated to cropland and pastureland.
Developed land includes urban expansion and infrastructure, while forest land and conservation reserves contribute to ecosystem health and biodiversity.
Surface water and wetland areas help with water management and conservation efforts
Iowa consistently produces high corn and soybean yields, with yearly harvested acreage and yield fluctuations reflecting changes in climate, soil conditions, and farming practices.
Corn and soybean acreage trends provide insight into agricultural productivity and land-use efficiency.
Primeland consists of land with the best combination of physical and chemical properties for crop production.
Over the years, the percentage of Iowa’s land classified as primeland has fluctuated, influenced by land conversion, soil conservation efforts, and agricultural advancements.
Rural Land Classified as Primeland (USDA, NRI, 1982, 2015)
Year
Iowa (acres)
US (acres)
% in Iowa
1977
19,127,000
344,811,000
5.55
1982
18,625,300
329,978,700
5.64
1987
18,603,900
328,054,000
5.67
1992
18,584,100
325,562,000
5.71
1997
18,526,100
322,336,800
5.75
2002
18,471,500
319,284,200
5.79
2007
18,428,300
316,818,800
5.82
2012
18,397,900
315,705,500
5.83
Primeland: Land that has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops and is also available for these uses. (Summary Report, 2015 National Resources Inventory)
Soil Erosion & Conservation
Iowa’s soil erosion inventory tracks the effects of water and wind erosion on agricultural land, helping to guide conservation practices and sustainable land management.
The Daily Erosion Project (DEP) estimates soil erosion and runoff across Iowa and neighboring states using daily weather and satellite data. It provides near real-time maps of average hill slope soil loss and runoff by watershed, helping users understand erosion trends, soil health, and conservation needs.
