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Important Ag Lands (IAL)

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Table of Contents

• Quick Facts
• What are Important Agricultural Lands (IAL)?
• Benefits of IAL Designation
• Examples of IAL Designations in Hawaii
• How IAL Affects Hawaii’s Real Estate Market
• The Future of IAL in Hawaii’s Real Estate Market
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Resources & Links
• For Buyers & Sellers

Quick Facts

• IALs are areas of high agricultural productivity, environmental sensitivity, and biodiversity.
• They account for approximately 12% of the United States’ non-federal agricultural land.
• IALs are identified based on nine criteria, including soil quality, water availability, and environmental concerns.
• Prioritized IALs are those most susceptible to conversion, degradation, or loss of agricultural productivity and environmental values.
• IALs can be located within working farms, ranches, and forests, as well as in urban and suburban areas.
• They provide ecosystem services like pollination, pest control, and nutrient cycling that benefit agriculture and the environment.
• Conservation practices in IALs can sequester carbon, improve water quality, and reduce soil erosion.
• Agricultural production in IALs is critical to meeting food and fiber demands, with many IALs producing high-value specialty crops.
• IALs often overlap with areas of high ecological importance, like wildlife habitats and migratory corridors.
• Protecting IALs requires collaboration among farmers, ranchers, policymakers, and environmental organizations to balance agricultural and environmental needs.

The Hidden Gem of Hawaii’s Real Estate Market: Important Ag Lands (IAL)

As a state with a thriving agriculture industry, Hawaii has seen a significant increase in the demand for agricultural lands. With the world’s eyes on sustainable farming practices and locally sourced produce, the value of agricultural land has skyrocketed in recent years. However, it’s essential to understand the different types of agricultural lands in Hawaii, particularly the Important Agricultural Lands (IAL) designation. In this article, we will explore the significance of IAL and how it affects Hawaii’s real estate market.

What are Important Agricultural Lands (IAL)?

IAL is a designation given to lands that are crucial for Hawaii’s agricultural economy. These lands are typically prime agricultural soils with favorable weather conditions, making them ideal for farming and ranching operations. The IAL designation ensures that these lands remain available for agricultural use, ensuring the state’s food security and economic stability.

Benefits of IAL Designation

An IAL designation brings numerous benefits to landowners, farmers, and the community at large. Some of the advantages include:

• Secure Land Use: Guaranteeing the use of prime agricultural lands for sustainable farming practices.
• Access to Funding and Resources: Eligibility for state and federal funds for land conservation, infrastructure development, and technical assistance.
• Increased Property Value: Enhanced marketability and higher property values due to the IAL designation.

Examples of IAL Designations in Hawaii

Some notable examples of IAL designations in Hawaii include:

• Kauai’s Poipu Agriculture Lands: Over 3,000 acres of prime agricultural lands on Kauai’s South Shore have been designated as IAL, protecting the soil and water resources that support some of Hawaii’s most productive farmland.
• Maui’s Ka’anapali Cattle Lands: Approximately 22,000 acres of ranchlands on Maui have been designated as IAL, ensuring the continuation of the island’s cattle industry and supporting local beef production.

How IAL Affects Hawaii’s Real Estate Market

As the demand for prime agricultural lands increases, the IAL designation presents both opportunities and challenges in Hawaii’s real estate market.

• Increased Demand: The designation often attracts investors and developers interested in acquiring these lands for large-scale agricultural operations or other uses.
• Conservation Concerns: The IAL designation also raises concerns about preserving the environmental integrity of these lands and ensuring sustainable farming practices.

The Future of IAL in Hawaii’s Real Estate Market

The importance of IAL in Hawaii’s agricultural economy and real estate market is undeniable. As the demand for locally sourced produce continues to grow, the value of IAL-designated lands is likely to appreciate. By understanding the significance of IAL and its designation criteria, landowners, farmers, and buyers can navigate the complex landscape of Hawaii’s real estate market and make informed decisions about the acquisition, management, and conservation of these vital lands.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are Important Ag Lands (IAL)?

Important Ag Lands (IAL) are areas identified as having high agricultural productivity, versatility, and resilience, making them crucial for food security, rural economy, and environmental sustainability.

How are IAL designated?

Designation is typically done by state or local governments, in collaboration with farmers, ranchers, conservation organizations, and agricultural stakeholders. Criteria for designation may vary, but often include factors such as soil quality, water availability, crop yields, and conservation value.

Why are IAL important?

IAL provide numerous benefits, including:

• Food security: IAL help ensure a stable food supply by supporting large-scale farming and ranching operations.
• Economic growth: IAL contribute significantly to local and national economies through job creation, tax revenue, and supply chain support.
• Environmental sustainability: IAL often feature natural habitats, wetlands, and wildlife corridors, which are essential for biodiversity and climate resilience.

Resources & Links

• https://www.epa.gov/soil
• https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/agriculture-conservation-programs/
• https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/soils/health/
• https://www.usda.gov/topics/environment-and-energy/agricultural-soil-health
• https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/land-waters-aquifer/soil-and-land-degradation/soil-degradation-assessment/

For Buyers & Sellers

Personal Summary: The Impact of Important Agricultural Lands (IAL) on Home Buyers and Sellers

As a home buyer or seller, understanding the concept of Important Agricultural Lands (IAL) is crucial in navigating the complex world of real estate. IAL designations can significantly impact property values, zoning regulations, and environmental policies, ultimately affecting the buying and selling experience.

For Home Buyers:

• Property Values: Homes located on or adjacent to IAL parcels tend to retain their value, even in areas experiencing gentrification or development pressure. This is due to the permanent preservation of open space, which benefits local ecosystems and maintains the area’s natural character.
• Zoning Regulations: IALs often come with stricter zoning laws, ensuring that land utilization is limited to agricultural or conservation purposes. Buyers should research local ordinances to understand what activities are allowed and potential restrictions.
• Environmental Considerations: IAL properties often attract eco-conscious buyers, who appreciate the protection of natural habitats and biodiversity. This awareness can result in higher demand and sale prices for these properties.
• Research and Inspections: Homebuyers must research the property’s history and underlying land uses to ensure accurate expectations. Conducting thorough property inspections will also help identify any potential environmental concerns.

For Home Sellers:

• Highlighting Value: As an IAL-mapped property owner, sellers can emphasize their property’s unique environmental value, attracting eco-savvy buyers who prioritize preserving natural areas.
• Environmental Provisions: Sellers should understand local tax benefit policies and whether their IAL status affects property taxes or provides tax benefits (such as reduced assessments or tax offsets).
• Compliance and Disclosure: Home sellers must comply with zoning and use regulations, ensuring that buyers are aware of these requirements. Disclosure statements may be necessary when selling an IAL property to protect both parties.
• Environmental Disclosure: Home sellers are encouraged to share information about existing conditions, such as soil contamination, endangered species, or other significant environmental concerns.

Tips for Navigating IAL Impacts on Home Buying and Selling:

• Stay informed about local IAL regulations, zoning ordinances, and conservation plans.
• Conduct thorough property research and inspections to acknowledge any existing conditions or concerns.
• Highlight a property’s unique environmental value to attract environmentally conscious buyers.
• Ensure compliance with zoning and use regulations to safeguard both parties.
• Seek professional guidance from local experts to navigate complex policies and potential pitfalls.