FAQs: Learn More About ICGA & Corn Production

How much corn does Illinois grow?

In 2017 (the most recent year for which we have data), Illinois farmers averaged 201 bushels per acre. Compare this to 197 bushels per acre in 2016 and 175 bushels per acre in 2015. In general, corn yields continue to trend up! Illinois ranks number two in the nation for corn grown, second to Iowa.

Where does corn from Illinois end up?

Of all the field corn grown in Illinois, 41% is exported out of the state, 31% is used for ethanol, 23% is used for industrial uses, and 5% is fed to livestock within the state.

What is ethanol?

Ethanol is an alcohol made from renewable resources such as corn and other cereal grains, food and other beverage wastes and forestry by-products. Ethanol-blended fuel substantially reduces carbon monoxide and volatile organic compound emissions, which are precursors to ozone. The corn-based substance is added to gasoline to reduce oil imports, reduce emissions, increase performance and reduce overall costs of transportation fuels.

What is the corn check off?

Every farmer that sells a bushel of corn in Illinois pays 5/8 of a cent per bushel to the corn checkoff program. The corn checkoff uses that money to promote corn and help corn farmers. Money is spent on research, marketing, and education. The corn checkoff was created by Illinois law in 1982.

How do I get a refund?

There is currently no electronic way to request a refund. Please call 309-827-0912 and ask for Anita for more information.

How do I get more involved?

There are many opportunities for farmers to get involved in IL Corn! As a member of the Illinois Corn Growers Association, you are invited to participate in the annual meeting (on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving), to participate in the annual policy development session in November, or to run for a seat on the ICGA board for a three-year term. We also would love to have more farmers responding to policy surveys that we send out, participating in the legislative process by responding to action requests, contributing to PAC fundraisers, and recruiting more members. As a checkoff contributor, we would welcome your help developing relationships with grain elevators and local ethanol plants, educating farmers on voluntary water quality management opportunities, and hosting international visitors to your farm. No matter your interest, we have a place to help you get connected to IL Corn. Call us at 309-557-3257 to find out more.

How do I redeem my seed corn coupon?

Members of the Illinois Corn Growers Association receive a coupon with their three-year membership renewal. That coupon is good for $50 off one bag of seed from our participating partners (on a minimum order of three bags of seed). Some of the partners redeem the coupon with a free bag of seed. Others offer the $50 discount. You will have to contact your seed corn dealer to find out how the partner you work with will treat the coupon.

When do the ICMB and the ICGA meet?

Illinois Corn Marketing Board meetings are open to the public. 2019 Meeting Dates: March 6-7 June 3-4 July 9-11 August 19-21 Illinois Corn Grower Association meetings are open to members only. 2019 Meeting Dates: February 26 June 4-5 August 21-22