LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The 6% increase in total land values in the state is largely due to spikes in agriculture land.

The state released figures today that show property valuations increased by more than $7 billion from 2007 to 2008.

More than a third of that is from an overall, 10% increase in the value of ag land. High prices for soybeans, corn and other crops are driving the increase.

The growth in residential property values, meanwhile, was minimal. Statewide, they grew less than 2%. That's the slowest growth rate since the state began tracking figures six years ago.

The statewide property values could change because property owners will have the opportunity to appeal changes in their land's value.

On the Net:

Nebraska Department of Revenue Property Assessment Division: http://pat.ne.gov

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