Iowa spans approximately 35,866,720 acres, or roughly 35.87 million acres, encompassing both land and inland water. This expansive area makes the Hawkeye State a significant agricultural and geographical entity in the American Midwest, characterized by its vast stretches of fertile farmland.
Iowa’s Total Area: A Closer Look
When discussing the size of Iowa, it’s important to consider both its land area and its total area, which includes inland waters. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Iowa’s total area is 56,272.81 square miles. To convert this to acres, we use the conversion factor of 640 acres per square mile.
This calculation yields approximately 36,014,598 acres for the total area. However, focusing specifically on the land area, Iowa measures 55,857.13 square miles, which translates to about 35,748,563 acres. The slight variation in reported acreage often comes from whether inland water bodies are included in the calculation. For practical purposes, especially concerning agriculture and property, the land area figure is most relevant.
Iowa’s Place on the Map: Size and Ranking
Iowa ranks as the 26th largest state by total area in the United States. This places it squarely in the middle among the 50 states, larger than states like Florida or Wisconsin, but smaller than giants such as Texas or California. Its relatively compact, rectangular shape contributes to its efficient agricultural layout.
The state’s borders are defined by the Mississippi River to the east and the Missouri River and Big Sioux River to the west. These natural boundaries contribute to Iowa’s rich alluvial soils, particularly along its river valleys, which are some of the most productive in the world.
The Heart of Agriculture: Land Use in Iowa
The vast majority of Iowa’s acreage is dedicated to agriculture. Over 90% of the state’s land is used for farming, making it one of the most agriculturally intensive states in the nation. This includes fields of corn and soybeans, as well as pastureland for livestock.
This extensive agricultural use directly impacts Iowa’s economy and culture. The state is a leading producer of corn, soybeans, pork, and eggs. The fertile soil, combined with a favorable climate, allows Iowa farmers to maximize the productivity of their land.
Related Facts About Iowa’s Geography and Demographics
- Topography: Iowa is characterized by gently rolling hills and flat plains, a result of ancient glacial activity. This relatively flat terrain makes much of its acreage suitable for large-scale farming operations.
- Population Density: With a population of just over 3.2 million people spread across its 35.8 million acres, Iowa has a population density of about 57 people per square mile. This is lower than the national average, reflecting its rural character and vast open spaces.
- Time Zone: The entire state of Iowa operates within the Central Time Zone (CT), making travel and communication consistent across its breadth.
- Travel Implications: While Iowa is a large state in terms of acreage, its well-maintained highway system allows for relatively efficient travel. Driving from the eastern border (Dubuque) to the western border (Council Bluffs) can take approximately 5-6 hours, covering about 300-350 miles.
Practical Tips for Understanding Land in Iowa
- Acreage vs. Square Miles: When researching land, remember that an acre is a unit of area (43,560 square feet), while a square mile is a much larger unit (640 acres). Most individual property listings will use acres, while state-level data often uses square miles.
- Property Surveys: If you’re involved in buying or selling land in Iowa, always ensure a professional land survey is conducted. This precisely defines property boundaries and acreage, preventing future disputes.
- Agricultural Land Value: Iowa’s agricultural land is among the most valuable in the world. Understanding the per-acre value is crucial for farmers, investors, and anyone interested in the state’s economy.
- Conservation Programs: Many Iowa landowners participate in conservation programs that help manage their acreage sustainably, protecting soil and water resources. Resources are available through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and local county extension offices.
Legal Considerations for Iowa Landowners
Understanding the legal aspects of land ownership in Iowa is vital. Property laws govern everything from zoning and land use to easements and water rights.
- Zoning Regulations: Local county and city governments establish zoning ordinances that dictate how land can be used (e.g., residential, agricultural, commercial). Always check these regulations before purchasing or developing land.
- Easements: An easement grants someone the right to use another person’s land for a specific purpose (e.g., utility lines, access to a landlocked parcel). These are typically recorded with the property deed.
- Fence Law: Iowa has specific fence laws, often referred to as "fence viewer" laws, which address the responsibilities of adjoining landowners regarding shared fences.
- Drainage Law: Given Iowa’s agricultural nature, drainage is a critical issue. Laws govern how water can be drained from one property to another, especially concerning agricultural tiling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa’s Size
Q: How many square miles is Iowa?
A: Iowa has a total area of 56,272.81 square miles, with a land area of 55,857.13 square miles.
Q: Is Iowa considered a large state?
A: Iowa is a medium-sized state, ranking 26th in total area among the 50 U.S. states. While not among the largest, its significant acreage is largely devoted to highly productive agriculture.
Q: What percentage of Iowa is farmland?
A: Over 90% of Iowa’s land area is dedicated to agriculture, making it one of the highest percentages in the United States.
Q: How does Iowa’s size compare to other Midwest states?
A: Iowa is larger than states like Illinois, Wisconsin, and Missouri in terms of land area, but smaller than states like Michigan (due to its Great Lakes water area) or Minnesota.
Conclusion
Iowa encompasses approximately 35,866,720 acres, a figure that underscores its immense agricultural capacity and defines much of its identity. This vast expanse of fertile land is the foundation of the state’s economy and a key characteristic of its Midwestern landscape. Understanding Iowa’s acreage provides insight into its geographic significance, land use patterns, and the practicalities of life and business in the Hawkeye State.
