If you own farmland in Saskatchewan, you’ll be receiving a new SAMA assessment in the mail this year, because 2025 is a revaluation year for SAMA (Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency)—and early reports are showing a roughly 40% increase in assessed farmland values across the province.

So what does that mean for you as a landowner,m or farmer? Let’s break it down.

What is SAMA?

SAMA is the provincial agency that determines the assessed value of all property in Saskatchewan, including farmland, residential, and commercial. Their job is to ensure property assessments reflect current market conditions—and every four years, they do a province-wide revaluation.

The 2025 values are based on what your land would have been worth as of January 1, 2023. This base date is used to ensure fairness and consistency across the province.

Why the Big Increase?

According to SAMA, farmland values rose significantly between 2019 and 2023. The 40% increase reflects the surge in demand, especially for productive land with irrigation potential or strong yield history.

This doesn’t mean the value of every farm will jump by 40%, but it does signal a strong provincial trend.

Will This Raise My Property Taxes?

Not necessarily.

An increase in your SAMA-assessed value doesn’t mean your taxes will go up by the same amount. That’s because your RM or municipality adjusts the mill rate (the formula used to calculate property taxes) to balance the budget across the new values.

So while assessments may rise, tax increases aren’t automatic—they depend on what your municipality decides.

What’s on a SAMA Assessment Sheet?

Your SAMA notice will show:

• Your property’s legal description

• Land use and quality rating

• Assessed value (based on Jan 1, 2023)

• Comparison to your previous assessment

• Appeal information if you notice something off

Notices are mailed out in revaluation years, so all farmland owners should be receiving one. This isn’t your tax bill—it’s the value that will be used to calculate it later.

How Is SAMA Used in Real-Life Land Valuation?

This is important: SAMA is not the same as market value.

Most real estate professionals and appraisers use SAMA as a reference point, but not the main tool when valuing farmland. Here's how it's factored in:

✔️ Used as a baseline — a starting point to see how parcels compare
✔️ Helpful for trends — gives a rough idea of land value shifts in a region
❌ Doesn’t reflect today’s market — values are based on Jan 2023, so they may lag
❌ Doesn’t capture premium factors — like irrigation potential, lease income, proximity to infrastructure, or current bidding demand

That’s why most farmland valuations rely more heavily on:

• Recent comparable sales

• Soil, location, and productivity

• On-the-ground buyer demand

Bottom line: SAMA is a tool—not a price tag.

What Should Landowners Do?

✔️ Review your assessment when it arrives—make sure details are correct
✔️ Know your appeal deadline if something doesn’t look right
✔️ Talk to your RM about tax implications and mill rate changes
✔️ If you’re considering buying, selling, or refinancing, talk to someone who understands both SAMA and real market conditions

Curious What Your Land Is Actually Worth?

We’d be happy to walk you through what we’re seeing in today’s market, how your land compares to others in your area, and what opportunities might be worth exploring.

📞 Call Dale at 306-774-6100

We help landowners make sense of the market—on paper and on the ground.

With so many headlines flying around about tariffs, it’s hard to tell what’s real, what’s speculation, and what actually affects your farm. So here’s a clear, straight-up summary for Western Canadian farmers and landowners—focused on what matters.

What’s Going On? A Quick Breakdown:

• Canada was not included in the new U.S. tariffs announced April 2.

• Previously announced 25% U.S. tariff on Canadian goods (March 4) is still PAUSED for goods that comply with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA/USMCA), which includes Canola.

• China has imposed 100% tariffs on Canadian canola oil, meal, and peas.

• Canada announced retaliatory tariffs, but it's still unclear whether U.S. farm machinery is included.

• The result? Widespread uncertainty, cautious buyers, and a wait-and-see mindset across the ag industry.

What’s the Status of the US Canola Tariffs?

On March 4, the U.S. announced a 25% tariff on Canadian canola seed, oil, and meal. Just two days later, those tariffs were paused for any products that meet USMCA trade rules—which includes most Canadian canola exports.

✔ So yes—canola is currently exempt from U.S. tariffs for now.
But the pause isn’t permanent, so it’s still something to watch.

Why Did China Impose Tariffs on Canadian Ag?

In short: retaliation.

China’s 100% tariffs on Canadian canola oil, meal, and peas weren’t about agriculture directly—they were a response to Canada’s decision to investigate and potentially restrict Chinese electric vehicle (EV) imports.

Agriculture had nothing to do with the dispute—but, as so often happens, farmers ended up caught in the middle. And many feel the federal government hasn’t shown enough urgency or attention in responding to the impact these tariffs are having on Prairie producers.

What’s the Deal with Canada’s Retaliatory Tariffs?

In response to U.S. trade actions, Canada announced its own 25% retaliatory tariffs—but hasn’t made it clear whether that includes U.S.-made farm equipment.

This lack of clarity is a real problem:

• Farmers are hesitant to invest in combines, sprayers, or tractors.

• Dealers can’t guarantee pricing or delivery.

• U.S. manufacturers are already laying off staff.

• Equipment sales are slowing—right at the start of planting season.

At the recent Canada Farm Show in Regina in March, interest in new machinery was high—but few were buying.

What This Means for You

Even if you’re not shopping for equipment this year, this kind of uncertainty affects:

• Crop planning and marketing—especially if you’re exporting to the U.S. or China

• Big-ticket decisions—like refinancing or land purchases

• Confidence across the industry—and confidence is what keeps deals moving

But here’s the upside: Saskatchewan farmland continues to hold its value, especially in regions with good soil, irrigation potential, or strong recent yields. A solid piece of land still speaks for itself—regardless of what the headlines say. 

What This Means for You

Even if you’re not shopping for equipment this year, this kind of trade uncertainty touches every corner of the ag economy.

• Crop planning and marketing may need adjustments—especially if you’re exporting to the U.S. or China

• Big-ticket decisions—like capital purchases or refinancing—might be on hold

• Confidence shapes decisions—and in times like this, people tend to step back… or step forward

We’re seeing both. Some are pausing. Others are taking the opportunity to reassess—freeing up land or capital to stay nimble as things shift.

What You Can Do Right Now

✔ Talk to your dealer before committing to U.S. equipment—ask about price guarantees
✔ Check with your grain buyer about backup markets, especially for canola and peas
✔ Stay informed, not overwhelmed—trusted updates > noisy headlines
✔ If land is part of your equation—whether you're thinking of selling a parcel, freeing up equity, or making a smart trade—this could be a worthwhile moment to check in.

Wondering What Your Land Is Worth?

With prices holding steady—and in some regions, still climbing—this may be a smart time to quietly explore your options. When uncertainty is in the air, some folks choose to pause. But others take the opportunity to make a move while the market is still strong.

Whether you’re looking to sell a quarter, free up capital, or just want to understand how today’s landscape affects your land, we’re always here for a straight-up conversation.

📞 Call Dale at 306-774-6100

The 2024 FCC Farmland Values Report came out mid-March —and Saskatchewan is leading the country once again.

While national farmland values rose by 11.5%, Saskatchewan’s average cultivated land values jumped by 13.1%, making it the highest provincial increase in Canada.

So what’s driving the growth? And what should landowners, buyers, and sellers keep in mind?

Let’s break it down.

1. Northern and Central Regions Are Driving the Increase

Some of the biggest jumps in land values came from areas with good growing conditions and strong demand:

• North Western region: +19.9%

• North Eastern region: +17.9%

• West Central region: +17.8%

• East Central region: +17.0%

These areas saw a mix of larger landowners expanding their base, good moisture conditions, and high-quality soil that performed well under dryland conditions.

2. Irrigated Land Stands Out

In the West Central region, irrigated land values jumped by 25.8%—one of the most dramatic increases anywhere in the province and country.

That’s due to the scarcity of irrigated acres, ongoing dry conditions, and growing interest from both producers and investors. The announcement of the Westside Irrigation Rehabilitation Project also helped spark additional confidence in the region.

3. South Western Still Saw Modest Gains

Even in drier areas like the South West, values still rose—up 4.1%—thanks to ongoing demand for premium quality soils, despite less-than-ideal growing conditions in 2023.

4. Pastureland Holds Steady

Pastureland saw a provincial average increase of 8.9%, with the South West leading the way at +15.9%. The value range remained tight, meaning the land holds its value consistently regardless of where you are.

Read the full report here: https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/knowledge/economics/farmland-values-report

So What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re a landowner, this report confirms that your farmland is holding strong—or gaining ground. Whether you’re thinking about selling, refinancing, or just curious about land performance, this year’s numbers are promising.

If you’re a buyer, there are still good opportunities to invest, especially in regions with stable prices and long-term potential. Irrigation-ready or high-quality dryland acres continue to be in demand. Land continues to be a strong investment.

Want to Know What Your Land Is Worth?

This report offers averages, but every farm and field is different.

If you're wondering what your land might be worth in today’s market, or thinking about expanding or selling, give us a call. We’d be happy to walk you through what we’re seeing on the ground.

📞 Call Dale at 306-774-6100

Your Prairie Professionals in Farm and Ranch Real Estate in Saskatchewan.

We field a lot of calls from farmers looking for irrigated land or land with irrigation potential. Some are looking to expand, while others want to know: “Is now a good time to sell if my land has irrigation suitability?”​

With Saskatchewan’s irrigation boom in full swing, demand for irrigated farmland is climbing, and land values are reflecting that shift. We’ve seen significant farmland sales in the last year, with some irrigated quarters reaching prices as high as $2 million.​

But what’s really driving this push toward irrigation, and what does it mean for farmers looking to buy, sell or invest in irrigation-ready land? Let’s break it down.

Why Irrigation-Ready Land is in High Demand

Irrigation isn’t just a trend—it’s a long-term shift in how farming is evolving in Saskatchewan. With large-scale infrastructure projects, private investment, and changing weather patterns, more farmers are looking for land that offers stable, reliable water access.​

So, what’s driving this boom?

✔ Government Investments. The Lake Diefenbaker Irrigation Project aims to bring 500,000 more irrigated acres into production. This is one of Saskatchewan’s biggest irrigation initiatives in decades and could unlock new value for farmland in these regions.​

✔ Private Investment is Fueling Growth. Did you know that 75% of Saskatchewan’s irrigated acres are privately developed? Farmers aren’t waiting for government projects—they’re investing in irrigation themselves, recognizing the long-term benefits of water security.​

✔ Higher Land Values & Stronger ROI. Irrigated land follows its own market trends. Unlike grain land, which fluctuates based on commodity prices, irrigated land maintains strong value because of its higher and more consistent productivity.​

✔ Saskatchewan’s Strategic Water Advantage. With 20% of the world’s freshwater located in Canada and 11% of global aquifer water being exported through agriculture, Saskatchewan is well-positioned to play a bigger role in global food production.​

✔ Climate & Water Security. Farmers know that unpredictable weather can make or break a season. Irrigation offers a level of control and stability that dryland farming can’t always provide, making it a major asset for future-proofing operations.​

✔ Technology is Making it Easier. Today’s irrigation systems use water more efficiently, making irrigation a more practical and profitable investment than ever before.​

The Unfinished Potential of Saskatchewan’s Irrigation Industry

Saskatchewan’s push toward large-scale irrigation isn’t new. The Lake Diefenbaker project was originally planned in the 1950s to bring 500,000 acres of farmland under irrigation, but development stalled in the 1970s, leaving a lot of that potential untapped.​

Fast forward to today, and the conversation is back in full swing. If Saskatchewan follows through on its irrigation expansion plans, land near irrigation infrastructure could see a major increase in value.​

What does this mean for farmers?

• If you already own land with irrigation potential, its value may increase over the next decade as infrastructure develops.​

• If you’re looking to buy irrigated land, now might be the time to get in before demand drives prices even higher.​

What to Consider if You’re Buying or Selling Irrigated Land

Buying? If you’re considering purchasing irrigated or irrigation-ready land, here’s what to factor in:

• Water access & rights. Not all land is eligible for irrigation, so check regulations and infrastructure availability.​

• Soil type & drainage.  Some soils handle irrigation better than others.​

• Infrastructure costs. Installing pivots and irrigation systems requires investment but can pay off in higher yields.​

Selling? If your land has irrigation potential, now is a prime time to consider selling.

• Investors and farmers looking to expand are paying premium prices for land with water access.​

• Some irrigated quarters have recently sold for as high as $2 million, showing strong demand in the market.​

• With large-scale irrigation projects underway, the next few years could bring even more demand for well-located irrigation-ready land.​

Final Thoughts: Is Now the Right Time to Move on Irrigated Land?

As water access becomes an increasingly valuable asset, irrigated farmland is in a category of its own—it doesn’t always follow traditional grain land price trends.​

For farmers thinking about buying, selling, or investing in irrigation, this is the time to be paying attention.​

If you’re considering a move, let’s talk. Whether you want to explore selling or are looking for the right piece of land, we can help you navigate the market.​

📞 Call Dale at 306-774-6100 to discuss opportunities in Saskatchewan farmland.

The Saskatchewan government released its 2025-26 provincial budget this past week (March 19), bringing some key impacts farmers, landowners and the agriculture industry. Here’s what you need to know—and how it affects you.

Lower Education Property Taxes for Farmland

To offset rising property assessments, the government is reducing the education property tax mill rate for agricultural land from 1.42 to 1.07.

What This Means for Farmers: This means farmland owners will see a decrease in their tax bills.

Grazing Lease Rental Rates Capped

Farmers who lease Crown land for grazing will benefit from a simplified rental formula and a 20% cap on rental fee increases.

What This Means for Farmers: More stability in lease costs for cattle producers.

Rural Infrastructure Investments

The government is investing in the Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG) Program to improve rural roads and transportation networks.

What This Means for Farmers: Better roads mean easier movement of equipment, livestock and grain, which can improve efficiency and potentially increase land values.

More Support for Business Risk Management

A record $484 million is allocated for Crop Insurance and AgriStability, helping protect farmers from weather, market fluctuations, and unexpected losses.

What This Means for Farmers: These safety nets provide more security, helping manage financial risks and stabilize farm incomes.

Potential Trade Challenges Ahead

While the budget supports agriculture, there’s concern over potential U.S. tariffs on key Saskatchewan exports like canola oil and peas. No contingency funds have been set aside to offset this risk.

What This Means for Farmers: If these tariffs happen, crop prices could be affected. It’s something to watch closely in the coming months.

Final Thoughts

The 2025-26 Saskatchewan budget brings positive changes for farmers, with tax reductions, stable lease rates, infrastructure improvements, and continued support for risk management. However, trade uncertainties remain a challenge.

📩 Have questions about farm and ranch real estate? Contact Murdoch Farm Team—helping you navigate Saskatchewan’s agricultural land market. If you’re buying, selling, or investing in farmland, these updates can help guide your decisions.

If you're a farmland owner in Saskatchewan, the question of whether to sell your property has likely crossed your mind. The current market conditions present a unique opportunity that makes now an excellent time to consider selling. Here’s why:

1. Strong Demand for Farmland

Farmland in Saskatchewan is seeing a surge in demand, driven by several key factors. Agricultural expansion continues as the global need for food grows, making productive land more sought after than ever. At the same time, farmland has become an appealing investment, attracting interest from a diverse range of buyers. These trends, combined with favorable financing conditions, are creating a competitive market where farmland is in high demand.

2. Rising Farmland Values

The value of farmland in Saskatchewan has been steadily climbing, with prices showing consistent growth. According to Farm Credit Canada's 2023 report, farmland values in Saskatchewan saw a significant increase, with the average price rising by 15.7% last year. The most notable growth occurred in east-central Saskatchewan, where prices surged by an impressive 20.8%, offering an excellent opportunity for landowners to maximize their returns.

3. Optimal Market Conditions

Several factors are aligning to create a seller-friendly market:

• Strong Commodity Prices: High prices for key crops like wheat, canola, and barley have boosted farmers’ incomes, making them more likely to purchase additional land.

• Economic Stability: Canada’s agricultural sector remains robust.

• Technological Innovations: Advances in farming technology have increased the productivity of land, driving up value.

4. Regulatory Shifts

Changes in agricultural policies and land ownership regulations have opened up new opportunities for selling farmland. These include tax incentives, updated land use policies, or government programs designed to support the agricultural sector.

5. Generational Turnover

Many Saskatchewan farming families are at a crossroads, with older generations retiring and younger ones stepping in. This generational transfer has created a dynamic market, where there’s an influx of buyers eager to expand their operations. Selling position you to benefit from this active market.

6. High Return on Investment

By selling your farmland now, you can take advantage of the current market’s high returns, enabling you to reinvest in other ventures or secure your financial future. Whether your goal is to diversify your investments, retire, or embark on a new project, this is an ideal time to capitalize on your land’s value.

Trust the Murdoch Farm Team

Navigating the complexities of the Saskatchewan farmland market requires expertise, local knowledge, and a personalized approach. At Murdoch Farm Team, we bring this to the table. With deep roots in the local community and 30+ years of experience in farm real estate, we’re committed to your best possible outcome. From accurate market evaluations to tailored selling strategies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Reach out to Dale or Murray at Murdoch Farm Team today to explore how we can help you make the most of your farmland sale.