April - May Highlights Annual Report

Legislative Ag Day in Springfield
ICGA showed strong visibility at Ag Legislative Day, meeting directly with lawmakers and highlighting priorities like E15 expansion, lock & dam funding, property taxes, and conservation incentives. The event strengthened relationships with both new and veteran legislators.
Megan Dwyer Testifies in Washington, D.C.
Director of Conservation & Nutrient Stewardship for IL Corn (Megan Dwyer) delivered federal testimony to the Senate Agriculture Committee on conservation economics and voluntary, incentive-based programs—sharing real farmer examples and reinforcing ICGA’s credibility in national policy discussions.
On-Farm Legislative Visits
ICGA hosted spring farm visits to give lawmakers a firsthand look at cover crops, strip-till, nitrogen tools, and rural infrastructure needs. These visits remain one of ICGA’s most effective tools for connecting policy to real farm impact.
Ongoing Springfield Engagement
Throughout session, ICGA maintained regular contact with legislators on key issues including ethanol, property taxes, waterway infrastructure, and rural broadband.

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Rep. Darin LaHood, Cliff Lane, and Mike Shane

What Farmers Want Lawmakers to Understand About Agriculture

By Lyndi Allen • July 23, 2026

There are some common misconceptions that farmers want all lawmakers to understand about farming and agriculture.

Illinois Farmer Leslie Miller Helped Change How Corn Is Grown

By Tara Desmond • July 23, 2026

Learn how Illinois farmer Leslie Miller helped pioneer anhydrous ammonia use, transforming corn production and shaping modern nutrient management.

A Conversation With Rod on Where We've Been, Where We're Going

By Tara Desmond • July 23, 2026

Rod Weinzierl breaks down what IL Corn really does — from crop insurance breakthroughs to river infrastructure to advice for the next generation of farmers.

Where Are They Now: Nicole (York) Racey

By Pearl McDade • July 22, 2026

Nicole Racey reflects on her internship with IL Corn, her career in higher education, favorite memories, and advice for IL Corn interns

How a TV Reporter Ended Up Saving Her Family's Farm

By Tara Desmond • July 22, 2026

Tara Barrett-Duzan left journalism to save her family's farm after tragedy struck twice - a story now told in the documentary "The Farmer's Daughter."

2026 Cover Crop Coupon Now Live

July 16, 2026

2026 Cover Crop Coupon is here. New seed suppliers and application discounts give Illinois farmers more options to save on conservation practices.