Crop Productivity Index (CPI)
Understanding Changes to Tillable Land Valuation in Otter Tail County
The Otter Tail County Assessor’s office is using the Crop Productivity Index (CPI) to value tillable acres effective for taxes payable in 2025. While this adjustment may not directly affect everyone, those with tillable land in Otter Tail County need to be aware of these changes and how they may impact their property valuation.
Introducing the Crop Productivity Index (CPI) Rating
Starting with the 2024 assessment, taxes payable in 2025, tillable land in Otter Tail County will be valued based on its Crop Productivity Index (CPI) rating. But what exactly is a CPI rating? The CPI measures soil quality and ranks soils based on their potential for intensive crop production. Ratings range from 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating higher production potential.
Previous Valuation Methods
Previously, Otter Tail County used ABC ratings to value tillable land. However, these ratings were established many years ago, and their basis and origin remain unknown. By transitioning to CPI ratings, the county aims to implement a more accurate and scientifically grounded method of valuing tillable land.
The Source of CPI Ratings
CPI ratings are derived from the USDA soil surveys conducted in Minnesota. These surveys are part of an ongoing effort by the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The data collected from these surveys systematically maps soil types and other properties in each county of the state, providing a reliable basis for CPI ratings.
Appealing Your CPI Rating
If you believe your CPI rating is incorrect, you have the right to appeal. To contest the CPI rating assigned to your parcel, submit a soil map from the Web Soil Survey and a drawing of your tillable acres to the Otter Tail County Assessor’s Office.
Find Your CPI Rating
Curious about your CPI rating? You can easily find it by accessing the GIS map for Tillable Fields.
Consideration for Regional Differences
It’s important to note that Otter Tail County sales data reflects different markets for East Otter Tail County and West Otter Tail County. As such, these regional variations are considered in the valuation process.
Learn More
For further information about CPI ratings in Minnesota, you can view the Crop Productivity Index Ratings page on the Minnesota State website or explore the Web Soil Survey provided by the USDA.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your CPI rating or the valuation process, please get in touch with the Otter Tail County Assessor’s Office for assistance.