Iowa’s smallest and largest farms have proliferated over the past 20 years, while the number of those in the middle is shrinking, the latest U.S. Census of Agriculture shows.

Farms of fewer than 180 acres have increased nearly 12% over the past two decades, according to the census, a comprehensive farm survey the U.S Department of Agriculture conducts every five years.

Experts say that’s because farmers are scaling down in the face of record-high land prices and escalating expenses for seed, fertilizer, tractors and other equipment and products needed to raise crops and livestock.

Iowa’s legendary soil, the bedrock of its economy, is losing its richness, new research shows

One Iowa family’s slow transition

In southeast Iowa, one farm family has embarked on a quest to find a better way.

About five years ago, Natasha Wilson, who had worked as an attorney, wanted to return to her family’s farm near West Chester. But she wasn’t interested in running her parents’ traditional corn, soybean and pig operation.

“I love the farm and I love food and I was really interested in sustainable farming practices,” she said, raising chickens, cattle and pigs more naturally, outside on pasture and prairie.

After long discussions with her parents, the family decided they would slowly remake the farm, called West Fork Farmstead, into a more diverse operation that sold beef, pork, chicken, eggs and honey locally.

deller@registermedia.com or 515-284-8457.

Source: desmoinesregister.com