THOUGHT PIECES

Planning for the 2026 growing season starts sooner than most realize. Land performance, water availability, and cost structures are influenced months before a crop ever goes in the ground. By reviewing data, evaluating management strategies, and identifying constraints early, operations can make informed decisions instead of reactive ones. Proactive planning isn’t just good management. It… 2026 Growing Season Planning Starts Now

2025 was a challenging year for pacific northwest tree fruit producers. According to insights from Washington State Tree Fruit Association, growers navigated: • One of the smallest pear crops in years, followed by a much larger crop that strained retail relationships • Drought and heat impacting apple harvest decisions and labor efficiency • Strong cherry… 2025 PNW Tree Fruit Market Recap

Succession planning isn’t a one-time decision, it’s a process that works best when it starts early. For family farms and ranches, strong transitions are built through: • Clear communication • Defined roles and expectations • Aligned legal and financial structures • Trusted advisors working together When planning happens proactively, families gain options, rather than being… Importance of Early Succession Planning

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has introduced a new digital portal to streamline reporting of foreign interests in U.S. agricultural land, adding visibility to ownership data at a time when the farmland market is already navigating significant headwinds. This development comes amid: • Persistently high farmland values • Elevated interest rates • Reduced transaction volume… USDA Creating Transparency in Farmland Ownership

🌟 Employee Spotlight: Kari Rickenbach, Permanent Crop Associate With over 20 years in the permanent crop industry, Kari brings unmatched expertise to Root Ag Advisory. From overseeing operations to managing farm finances, her hands-on experience and horticulture degree from WSU make her an invaluable asset to our team. Kari’s not only dedicated to farmland management—she’s… Employee Spotlight: Kari Kickenbach

🌎 Brazil surpasses the U.S. as the world’s top beef producer—what does that mean for Western producers? Brazil overtaking the U.S. in total beef production isn’t just a global headline—it has real implications for producers across the western half of the country. While U.S. cattle numbers remain historically tight, strong global demand (especially from China)… US Drops Below Brazil for World’s Top Beef Producer

As we step into a new year, we’re reintroducing the founders behind Root Agricultural Advisory, Skye and Becca Root. Founded in 2018, Root Ag Advisory was built on one clear mission: deliver high-quality farmland advisory services grounded in real agricultural experience. ➡️ Skye brings decades of experience across farmland investment, water rights, ag finance, and… New Year. Same Roots.

Selling farmland in 2026 will require more than good timing, it requires preparation. From property presentation to water data, buyers are expecting clear, organized information before they write strong offers. The farms that stand out are the ones that tell a complete, credible story from day one. Consider the following tips when looking to sell… Tips for Selling Farmland in 2026

Recent USDA data highlights a growing imbalance producers are feeling every day in the field. By October 2025, the Prices Paid Index climbed to 154.6, while the Prices Received Index fell to 120.5. Put simply: • It now costs producers ~50% more to grow crops than it did in 2011 • Yet commodity prices are… Producer’s Seeing Negative Variance in Commodity Prices vs. Growing Costs

As we look ahead to the 2026 growing season, soil improvement opportunities deserve a closer look. Consider implementing the following practices in your 2026 plan: Know your soil: Since soil is a living system, looking at factors such as nutrient cycling, water retention and understanding crop resilience can make a huge difference in harvest outcomes.… Planning for the 2026 Growing Season