Land Use

Iowa’s land is primarily dominated by agriculture, supporting the state as one of the top producers of corn, soybeans, pork, beef, and eggs. The state is also one of the top areas for soil erosion worldwide. 

How is Land Used 

About 85% of Iowa’s land is used for farming, with the majority dedicated to growing corn and soybeans. These two crops are foundational for food, animal feed, and ethanol production. With local sources of animal feed, Iowa is a leader in livestock farming, particularly in pork and egg production. Some land, especially in areas unsuitable for crops, is used for grazing livestock or left as natural grassland. Urban areas, including cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, comprise a small but growing portion of Iowa’s land as infrastructure expands. Portions of Iowa are dedicated to wetlands, forests, and conservation areas. These lands play a role in preserving biodiversity, mitigating soil erosion, and managing water resources. 

Statewide Data

The Statewide Data section provides a comprehensive overview of land use across Iowa, including major land classifications, crop yields, acreage trends, and prime farmland statistics. This section is ideal for understanding broad patterns in agriculture and land management at the state level.

County Data

The County Data section focuses on localized agricultural trends, offering detailed insights into crop yields, crop ratios, and land use averages by county. This resource supports regional planning, comparative analysis, and a closer look at land use variability across Iowa.