Did You Miss These? Corn's Top October Stories


By Tara Desmond • November 5, 2026

Harvest season might be wrapping up, but we’ve still got plenty to bring in. Whether you’re catching up or revisiting your favorites, here’s a look at our top stories from October 2026. No tricks, just treats! New stories drop every week right here on our website, and IL Corn TV has fresh episodes weekly, so there’s always something worth tuning in for.


Got a story to share? Reach out to us. We’d love to hear it!

1. President Trump Announces 8 Billion Relief Program

USDA Harvest Fuel Relief Program will make one-time payments to farmers hit by higher input costs and market disruptions in 2026.

washington dc capitol building picture

2. NCERC Expansion Opens Doors for New Corn-Based Products

The facility and provide opportunities for new bioproducts using corn to scale to commercialization.

NCERC Expansion

3. The "Don't Be That Guy" Fall Nitrogen Checklist

Peer pressure isn't just for teenagers.

anhydrous fertilizer application

4. Five Years at IL Corn: What I’ve Learned, the Myths I’ve Busted, and Why I Own a Corn Dress

Tara Desmond celebrates corn.

Tara in corn costume making weird face

5. Meet IFCA President Jenny Webb

Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association brings on new talent.

headshot of Jenny Webb

6. In America’s Merriest Christmas Town, an ICGA Farmer Is Keeping Her Family’s Legacy Alive

Hallmark named Carlinville America’s first-ever “Merriest Christmas Town” and we chatted with Kim Carney Rhodes an IL Corn Growers member and Illinois farmer.

aerial view of Carlinville Illinois

7. Born Without Arms or Legs, Chris Koch Still Runs the Combine

Farmer Chris Koch shares his story.

Chris Koch - Farmer

8. Illinois Farmers Connect with Legislators Across the State

IL Corn Growers Association connections across the state.

farmers and il corn staff with McCombie

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