Despite being one of the top agricultural states in the country, Illinois ranks a surprising 37th in receiving USDA conservation funds from 2018 to 2022.

Announced as part of a broader $430 million federal initiative, this funding is set to bolster Illinois' efforts in promoting sustainable farming and environmental stewardship over the next five years.

To participate, producers need to document their losses and submit a notice of loss to the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) by March 3, 2025, for 2024 losses. Additionally, the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) offers compensation for feed and grazing losses, with a notice of loss deadline of January 30, 2025.

The bill would ensure rural communities have a say in the approval process for solar panel projects.

Farm loan payments can now be made at the borrower’s convenience.

“Controlled Environment Agriculture: From Home-Grown to Facilities” is set for 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at the SIU Student Center Auditorium.

During the 6th annual Ag Field Day at SIU researchers presented their findings to farmers and others in the Agriculture industry.Topics included preventing water run-off, testing water quality, double cropping, cover crops and more.

SIU is having their annual Ag Field Days in Belleville and Carbondale this year

Local, state leaders celebrate multi-generational family farm

The Farm Family Resource Initiative provides a range of resources for farmers including a 24/7 helpline. Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello was joined by representatives from the SIU School of Medicine and dairy farmers from Red Bud to highlight features of the program.