Wyoming Ranches for Sale May Go Up in Demand After Food Freedom Act

Farm-fresh secures victory for Wyoming’s agriculture sector with the passage of the Wyoming Food Freedom Act (FFA) early this March. It’s the first state to adopt a bill that allows a bottle of farm-fresh milk to be sold in the open market instead of being subject to heavy regulation.

As the sector expects a resurgence in small-time operations anytime soon, it is also presumed that the FFA will have an indirect effect on ranching real estate. Rep. Tyler Lindholm (R-District 1)—who pursued the legislation after its original author, Rep. Sue Wallis (R-District 52), passed away—told Reason that the bill will support local farmers and ranchers. Those in the market for natural ranches for sale in Wyoming might see the need and opportunity to expand their lands.

Here are some important details about the FFA, which will take effect on July 1, 2015:

• Only applies to products sold through a direct transaction, as in from producer to consumer (no groceries or the like).
• Products are only for consumption at home unless cleared by law for commercial consumption.
• Only applies to Wyoming.
• Meat products, except poultry, are not covered by the FFA.

An Agricultural Economy

Although mining and tourism are now the primary drivers of Wyoming’s economy, agriculture is still of historical significance to the state. Livestock accounts for 86 percent of its agriculture, of which 78 percent is from cattle. Ranches and farms also produce hay, sugar beets, barley, and corn, mostly for farming purposes.

This economy stresses the need to maintain the state’s grazing lands and freshwater sources. Wyoming is mostly rural, with rolling hills, grassy plains, and dense forests, ideal for free-range livestock and poultry. With consumers growing more aware about their food choices, ranchers and farmers going back to basics will stand out in the market.

Acres of Opportunities

Increasing yield to meet a growing demand will need more land for more livestock and crops. Property brokers like Mirr Ranch Group can provide acres of good Wyoming ranches for sale, from North Spring Creek Ranch to Seminoe Mountain, for expanding or setting up your first roots in the agriculture business.

Brokers will help buyers through the buying process, selecting the ideal ranch property based on the latter’s search criteria. Once the property has been selected, the broker will run buyers down through a series of legal matters such as water rights, conservation, and title lands. This is to ensure a hassle-free entry or expansion into the sector.

(Source: “Tremendous Victory for Wyoming’s Bipartisan Food Freedom Act,” Reason, March 14, 2015)