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.