IL Corn Donates over $600 to FFA Thanks to Farmer Water Testing Engagement

June 17, 2020
Il corn 2020 water testing program a huge success

IL Corn donated $635 to Illinois FFA chapters, a result of Illinois farmers testing water supplies on their farms for nitrates.


The program focused on raising awareness on Illinois farms of potential for nutrient loss through water supplies. IL Corn Grower Association members received testing strips and submitted their results anonymously. Each submittal generated a $5 donation to an FFA chapter in Illinois of the farmer’s choice.


According to the most recent Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy Biennial report, Illinois lost 425 million pounds of nitrate-N/yr between 2013-2015. Survey work tells us that many farmers in Illinois do not believe they are losing valuable nutrients from their farm. Water quality research tells us that nutrient runoff is a problem, costing farmers money and contributing to the loads entering our waterways.

The data submitted will be used to summarize nitrate loads per region in Illinois. Check back at www.ilcorn.org to review how your results might compare with the average of all submittals in your region.

farm rescue
By Tara Desmond October 10, 2025
When Crisis Strikes, Farm Rescue Steps Up for Farm Families in Illinois
Outline of Illinois; surrounded by a green background with vegetables.
By Lyndi Allen October 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest nutrition provision in the Farm Bill, linking food policy and farm policy.
Cliff Lane with Tara
By Tara Desmond October 2, 2025
While harvesting Cliff talks about his operation and conservation practices
Maren outside Franklin, IL
By Tara Desmond October 2, 2025
Maren, from Norway, tells her story about becoming an exchange student to a Franklin, Illinois family - the Thompsons
farmers in dc
By Tara Desmond October 2, 2025
An Illinois farmer - Lance -- tells the story of his experience in IL Corn's GROW Program.
U.S. Capitol Building with cloudy sky overhead.
By Lyndi Allen October 1, 2025
When the federal government shuts down, farmers feel the effects in their fields, finances, and futures. Government programs through the USDA can hurt farmers when not operating.
Show More