August - September Highlights Annual Report

Major Presence at the Illinois State Fair
ICGA had a strong, visible presence throughout the Illinois State Fair, engaging with members, partners, and lawmakers. During Fair Week, ICGA staff and farmer leaders met with numerous Illinois state legislators to build relationships and discuss key state-level priorities such as regulatory certainty, rural economic development, infrastructure needs, conservation cost-share programs, and the importance of keeping agriculture competitive in Illinois.
Farm Progress Show Engagement
August also included significant outreach at the Farm Progress Show, where ICGA directors and staff met with farmers, industry partners, and policymakers. Conversations centered on conservation programs, ethanol demand, ag workforce needs, and the farm financial outlook — reinforcing ICGA’s work across policy, market development, and conservation adoption.
Preparation for Fall Session
Heading into the fall, the policy team continued its groundwork for Springfield’s veto session and maintained federal conversations.
IL Corn Testifies on Urgent Need for Mississippi River Infrastructure Upgrades
ICGA farmer leader Mark Bunselmeyer testified before the Mississippi River Commission, urging federal leaders to accelerate long-delayed upgrades to Lock 25 and the broader NESP system. He emphasized that nearly half of Illinois corn depends on the river, and decades of farmer advocacy and investment have been met with stalled progress and soaring project costs. Mark called for consistent funding, streamlined Corps processes, and greater input from river users to ensure a modern, reliable waterway system that Illinois farm families and the national economy depend on.

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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.