Construction
$131M in New Huntsville Area Construction in November
2024-12-05
In Madison, Limestone and Morgan counties, November witnessed some remarkable construction activities. A $14.2 million community center in New Market and a $12.4 million mixed-use building in downtown Huntsville emerged as the most expensive projects to obtain permits. These two ventures stood out among the more than $131 million in new construction that began during the month. In total, an impressive 17 projects exceeded the $1 million mark. Southern Exposure Information compiled and pulled the permits to bring these figures to light.

Impacts and Significance

The construction of these large-scale projects not only brings significant economic value to the local area but also has a profound impact on the community. The community center in New Market, for instance, is expected to become a hub for various activities, providing a space for residents to come together and engage in social, cultural and recreational pursuits. It will enhance the quality of life for the local population and contribute to the overall development of the community.The mixed-use building in downtown Huntsville, on the other hand, will add to the urban fabric and offer a diverse range of commercial and residential spaces. It will stimulate economic growth by attracting businesses and residents, creating jobs and boosting local commerce. These projects are a testament to the growth and development potential of the Huntsville area and are likely to have a lasting impact on the region.

Details of the Community Center

The $14.2 million community center in New Market is a state-of-the-art facility that boasts a wide range of amenities. It features a large multipurpose hall that can accommodate various events such as concerts, conferences and exhibitions. The hall is equipped with modern audiovisual systems and can seat several hundred people. In addition, there are dedicated spaces for sports activities like basketball and badminton, as well as a well-equipped fitness center. The center also includes a library, a community kitchen and several meeting rooms for different purposes. The design of the building incorporates sustainable features such as energy-efficient lighting and heating systems to minimize environmental impact.

Features of the Mixed-Use Building

The $12.4 million mixed-use building in downtown Huntsville is a prime example of urban development. It combines commercial and residential spaces in a seamless manner. On the ground floor, there are retail shops and restaurants that will add to the vibrancy of the downtown area. The upper floors offer stylish apartments with modern interiors and excellent views. The building also has a dedicated parking area to accommodate the needs of both residents and visitors. The design of the building takes into account the urban context and blends seamlessly with the surrounding architecture. It is expected to become a landmark in downtown Huntsville and attract both local and international attention.These two projects represent the pinnacle of construction in the Huntsville area in November. They showcase the region's ability to undertake large-scale and complex projects and highlight the potential for continued growth and development. As more such projects come on board, the Huntsville area is set to become a hub of economic and social activity.
August 2024: 80 Iowa Acres Sold at $19,000 per Acre
2024-12-05
August and September of 2024 witnessed a series of significant farmland transactions. These deals offer valuable insights into the current state of the agricultural market and showcase the diverse properties available. Let's take a closer look at each transaction.

Uncover the Details of 2024's Farmland Deals

80 Acres in Poweshiek County, Iowa

In Poweshiek County, Iowa, an 80-acre property located 2½ miles north of Hartwick made headlines. The farm, with a Corn Suitability Rating Index (CSR2) of 91.2, was sold via public auction. On August 8, 2024, it fetched an impressive $19,000 per acre, resulting in a final sale price of $1,520,000. This price was well above the county average of 67.9, highlighting its exceptional quality.

The location and CSR2 value make this farm an attractive investment opportunity. Its proximity to a small town and high suitability for corn cultivation contribute to its market value.

118.34 Acres in Macon County, Illinois

In central Illinois, a 118.34-acre farm was sold using the buyer's choice auction method. The property boasts corn yield data of 240 bushels per acre and soybean yields in the mid-70s. Sold in three tracts, it achieved an average price of $17,397 per acre, with a total sale price of $2,058,783. This demonstrates the productivity and potential of this Illinois farmland.

The combination of high yields and the unique auction method makes this transaction stand out. It showcases the diverse ways in which farmland can be sold and valued.

154.75 Acres in O’Brien County, Iowa

A highly sought-after 154.75-acre property in O’Brien County, Iowa, just southeast of Sheldon, was sold through the buyers' choice auction method. With an average CSR2 value of 94.9, the land attracted significant interest. Tract 1 sold for $19,000 per acre, followed by Tract 2 at $18,100 per acre and Tract 3 at $16,500 per acre. The total sale price reached $2,838,875, reflecting the desirability of this property.

The varying prices per tract highlight the differences in value within this large property. The high CSR2 value and strategic location contribute to its appeal.

114.55 Acres in Lyon County, Iowa

Near Rock Rapids, Iowa, a total of 114.55 acres sold at auction. This high-quality northwest Iowa farm, with 95% tillable land and main soil types of Galva, Sac, and Primghar series soils, was sold for $17,600 per acre, totaling $2,016,080. The combination of tillable land and favorable soil types makes this farm an attractive option.

The specific soil types and high tillable percentage add to the value of this Lyon County property, making it a prime investment for agricultural purposes.

76.59 Acres in Dubuque County, Iowa

In northeast Iowa, between Cascade and Worthington, a total of 76.59 surveyed acres sold via public auction. With 70.51 acres tillable and a CSR2 value of 54.4, the property fetched $17,500 per acre, equivalent to $349 per CSR2 point. This shows the unique valuation based on both tillable area and CSR2.

The combination of tillable land and CSR2 value provides a comprehensive assessment of this Dubuque County farm's worth.

111.23 Acres in Clinton County, Iowa

In eastern Iowa, 111.23 acres located 2 miles southeast of Delmar were sold as three diverse tracts via public auction. Tract 1, with 98% tillable land and a CSR2 value of 93.2, was a standout. Tract 2 held recently expired CRP acres, and Tract 3 consisted of a 1,680-square-foot county home. The auction concluded with a final sale price of $2,040,167.

The diverse nature of these tracts and their individual characteristics contribute to the overall value and appeal of this Clinton County property.

Produced in partnership with American Farmland Owner (AFO). AFO aims to assist landowners in making informed decisions for their farmland while safeguarding the prosperity of American agriculture.
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First 2024 Avian Flu Cases Confirmed in 3 North Dakota Counties
2024-12-05
The first cases of bird flu during the fall migration have emerged in three North Dakota counties, sending ripples through the local poultry industry and raising concerns among residents. Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected in a backyard chicken flock in McHenry County, a commercial turkey flock in Ransom County, and a backyard mixed flock in Bottineau County. These confirmations were made at the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa. To prevent the rapid spread of the disease, affected facilities have been quarantined and flocks have been depopulated.

North Dakota Battles the Spread of Bird Flu

McHenry County: The Backyard Chicken Flock Impact

In McHenry County, the discovery of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a backyard chicken flock has sent shockwaves through the local community. These backyard chickens were a source of pride and joy for many residents, and now they face an uncertain future. The quarantine measures put in place have disrupted the daily lives of these chicken owners, who are now left to deal with the aftermath of this unexpected outbreak. The depopulation of the flock is a difficult decision, but it is one that must be made to protect the wider poultry population and prevent the spread of the disease.

Local veterinarians and agricultural experts are working hard to provide support and guidance to the affected chicken owners. They are conducting tests and monitoring the situation closely to ensure that the disease does not spread further. The community is also coming together to offer assistance and support to those affected by this crisis.

Ransom County: The Commercial Turkey Flock Conundrum

The confirmation of bird flu in a commercial turkey flock in Ransom County has had a significant impact on the local turkey industry. Commercial turkey farms are the backbone of the local economy, and any disruption to these operations can have far-reaching consequences. The quarantine measures have forced these farms to halt their operations, leading to financial losses and uncertainty for the farmers and their employees.

Efforts are being made to ensure the safety of the workers and to prevent the spread of the disease. Protective measures such as personal protective equipment and strict hygiene protocols are being implemented on the farms. The agricultural department is working closely with the turkey farmers to develop a plan to resume operations once the quarantine is lifted.

Bottineau County: The Backyard Mixed Flock Challenge

In Bottineau County, the discovery of bird flu in a backyard mixed flock has highlighted the vulnerability of all poultry flocks. Backyard flocks play an important role in the local food system and provide a source of fresh eggs and meat for many families. The quarantine measures have forced these backyard flock owners to take precautions and limit their interactions with other poultry.

Local organizations and community groups are stepping in to provide resources and support to these backyard flock owners. They are offering advice on how to prevent the spread of the disease and how to care for their remaining birds. This community support is helping to ease the burden on these families during this difficult time.

The Agriculture Department has emphasized that there is no immediate public health concern. The avian flu risk to people is low, although the disease can be fatal for birds. The confirmed cases have triggered the suspension of commingling poultry and bird events in McHenry, Ransom, and Bottineau counties, as well as the restriction of birds from these counties. If no new cases emerge in 30 days in one of those counties, the suspension will be lifted.

More information about avian influenza is available at www.ndda.nd.gov/avian-influenza and from the U.S. Department of Agriculture at www.aphis.usda.gov. These resources provide valuable information and guidance for poultry farmers, backyard flock owners, and the general public.

North Dakota Monitor is part of the States Newsroom, a network of similar news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. This network plays an important role in providing accurate and timely information about local and regional issues, including the spread of bird flu.
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