Alberta farmland values increased an average of 8.8% in 2014, following gains of 12.9% in 2013 and 13.3% in 2012. Values in the province have continued to climb since 1993.In southern Alberta, demand for irrigated land remained strong, especially from specialty crop producers looking to expand contracts. Traditional crop producers sought to purchase irrigated land due to the higher commodity prices seen in the first half of 2014. Dry land producers also contributed to a steady demand for farmland due to higher commodity prices and general optimism in the area.Strong beef prices have increased the demand for pasture in the more
traditional beef areas throughout the province. This was especially prevalent in the central to northern east portions of the province.