Farm Readiness During this Crisis
April 7, 2020

Farm Readiness Checklist
We all know no one can learn the nuances of your farm quickly, like which tractor needs a shot of ether to get rolling regardless of temperature, but you can still have a plan in place. Being prepared can not only provide peace of mind in case something happens, but can also help reduce stress by having a plan laid out now. Take a few minutes to write out your plan and put it where it can be easily found. Give a copy to a trusted neighbor or friend.
General Farm Information
- Hired help contact info, primary job responsibilities
- Typical machinery dealership/repair services used
- Crop advisor/Farm manager name & number
- Crop insurance agent name & number
- Ag lender name & number
Field Plans
- Field Names & Locations
- Highlight in Plat book if possible
- Where is the field entrance, what side is best to start working from
- Intended Crop
- Seed Varieties, Where is Seed located, Who is your seed dealer
- Planting rates
- What still needs to be done? Tillage, Spring Fertilizer, Burndown
- Who is your retailer for chemical and fertilizer?
- Have spring chemical and nitrogen programs been finalized?
Stored Crop Plans
- Which bins may need to be watched more closely than others
- Do you have any upcoming delivery contacts? With who?
- Does anyone help market your crops?
Livestock Plans
- Still have cows to calve? Calving routine/processing procedures
- Which pastures do you have cows at, where do cows need to go when the grass greens up?
- Are there water needs?
- Hay storage? Mineral and protein tubs?
- Do you have feed brought in? Who is your supplier, are the deliveries automatic?
- What are your rations?
- Who is your vet?
- Hog barn routine? Clean out procedures?
- Who is your contact for who you grow for?
- Where do you get your feed? Is it automatic?
- Is there anyone you have come help for things like load out?
- Who is your vet?
Download a form that makes it easy for you to plan for a potential absense!

By Tara Desmond
•
October 15, 2026
Jenny Webb has spent her career in Illinois agriculture. Now she’s about three months into a new job as president of the Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association (IFCA), the group that represents the ag retailers, applicators and suppliers who get fertilizer and crop protection products to your farm when you need them. Webb came to IFCA from Illinois Farm Bureau. She’s new to the fertilizer and chemical side of the business, but not to farmers or to the policy and regulatory issues that affect them. IL Corn sat down with her to talk about what she’s learned so far, the issues facing Illinois ag retailers, and why the work happening behind the scenes deserves more credit than it gets.





