Monona County
Premier Loess Hills Farm Offering Income-Producing Cropland With Grazing Potential
31152 CR-E54 Moorhead, IA 51558
Description
The Loess Hills of western Iowa are unlike any other landscape in the Midwest. Formed by wind-deposited silt thousands of years ago, this narrow band of rugged hills stretching along the Missouri River contains one of the largest deposits of loess soil in the world. The result is a landscape defined by steep ridges, deep draws, rolling farmland, native prairie, and views that are distinctly different from the rest of Iowa.
Properties that combine productive farmland, restored prairie, and recreational opportunities within this unique region are increasingly difficult to find. These productive soils provide strong agricultural value while benefiting from convenient frontage along County Road E54, allowing year-round access and efficient transportation to local grain markets.
The balance of the farm consists of a CRP grassland program, pasture, mature timber, and restored native prairie. One of the most notable features of this property is the level of stewardship that has been invested in the land. Eastern red cedar encroachment, a growing challenge throughout much of western Iowa, has been aggressively addressed. The removal of these invasive trees has restored the property's historic character while improving pasture productivity, wildlife habitat, and long-range views across the surrounding hillsides.
The restored prairie grasses create a striking visual landscape throughout the property and reflect the natural heritage of the Loess Hills region. Rolling contours, dramatic ridgelines, and diverse vegetation provide a setting that is both productive and aesthetically impressive. Whether viewed from the road or while traversing the farm, the land showcases many of the features that make the Loess Hills one of Iowa's most treasured landscapes.
In addition to its agricultural value, the property offers recreational appeal. The combination of timber, prairie, pasture, and neighboring habitat-rich farms creates an environment that supports whitetail deer, wild turkey, and other native wildlife. While farming remains the primary use, the recreational opportunities add another layer of enjoyment and long-term value.
Well-maintained, highly productive, and located within one of Iowa's most unique landscapes, this Monona County farm offers a rare combination of income-producing farmland, preserved grasslands, restored prairie, quality habitat, and the timeless beauty of the Loess Hills.
Summary
Address
Land Type
Property Type
Land and Farm Property Types
Road Frontage
Road Surface
Fencing
Outbuildings
Land Details
Improvements/Features
Activities on Property
Roads
Nearby Features
Government Programs
Livestock Facilities
Tillable/Production Areas
Wild Game
Details
- Weighted average CSR2 of 66 across the tillable acres
- Nearly half of the tillable acres carry an exceptional CSR2 of 89
- Entire farm has high-quality barbed wire boundary fencing
- 1.1 miles of County Road E54 frontage for year-round access
- Convenient access to local grain markets and agricultural infrastructure
- Monona County 5-yr average cash rents of $4.49/CSR2 = ~$295/acre ($4.49 x 66) or ~ $26,550 annually
- Cropland, pasture and hunting rights are leased for 2026. Open tenancy available 3/1/2027
- Extensive eastern red cedar removal has enhanced grass production, habitat quality and farm aesthetics
- Located within the heart of Iowa's renowned Loess Hills region
- Rolling topography and distinctive Loess Hills landforms create exceptional visual appeal
- Combination of income-producing farmland, grazing opportunities, recreation, hunting and long-term land stewardship
- Located in Sections 1 & 2 of Sioux Township (82N) Range 44 West of the 5th Prime Meridian
Area Links
Other
Utilities
Coordinates
Annual Taxes
Sold Property
For more information or to see additional properties currently for sale see Garret Armstrong's listings.