Many investors assume that Section 1031 tax exchanges can’t be used to own assets like mineral rights—but that’s not entirely true. In most cases, mineral rights can indeed qualify for a 1031 exchange, allowing you to defer capital gains taxes when reinvesting in similar assets. Here's what you need to know about mineral ownership and 1031 exchanges. Read more

As we enter April, or Earth Month, it’s a reminder that rural land offers an opportunity to reconnect with nature while contributing positively to the environment. Landowners and land professionals understand the privilege of owning a piece of earth; they are the ultimate land stewards. Our nation’s farmers, ranchers, and foresters have long worked to preserve natural habitats, promote biodiversity, and ensure that these spaces remain for future generations to enjoy. So, this Earth Month, let's celebrate how rural land investment aligns with the spirit of land stewardship and responsibility. Read more

As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, landowners have a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to this transition by harnessing the abundant power of the sun. Solar energy, a clean and sustainable energy source, eliminates greenhouse gas emissions, helps minimize environmental pollution, and can be a form of income through solar leasing. Read more

Land valuation is the process of estimating the fair value of a parcel of land. Certain areas in the U.S. are more valuable for certain resources that are natural, crops, or renewable. These factors impact both surface and mineral rights. Learn the three methods of valuation and how the location and resources impact land values. Read more

Solar developers and farmers have a long history of cooperation. Co-locating solar energy generation facilities with active agriculture (sometimes referred to as “agrivoltaics”) can provide a wide range of benefits for crop production and pollinator habitat as well as environmentally responsible local economic development. Read more

“Carbon neutral” and “net zero goals'' are often thrown around in conversations about energy, but what does it actually mean for the lands of America? How many acres will be required for each state to achieve zero-carbon emission? Read more

For rural communities that may go years between major investments, the arrival of a wind farm has large benefits in all three areas. Read more

The value of rural properties can be affected by an interplay of forces, which are continually changing, often in a cyclical pattern. Read more

We’ve collected the most commonly asked questions about mineral rights to help you get a better understanding of one of the most complex issues in the land industry. Read more

The right kind of soil can help a landowner grow great crops or build houses that last a long time. Read more

Wind and solar energy are already taking the world of energy by storm. Read more

More and more farmers are taking on active roles in conservation. Future Leaders Committee Molly Zaver explains some common ways to help your land. Read more

Soil is a key factor in determining the use of a farmland property and it is crucial to understand at least the basics of farmland soil health. Read more

When you buy land, you might assume that your property rights give you ownership of everything below your feet. That's not always the case, though. While you have surface rights, someone else may have mineral rights to its metals, oil, natural gas, and other commodities. Read more

This post is part two of a two-part article from LandGate on the value of solar, wind, oil and gas, and other resources on and under land. It originally appeared in the Winter 2021 issue of Terra Firma magazine. Read more