June - July Highlights Annual Report

Building Future Advocates: ICGA + FFA in Washington, D.C.
ICGA remains committed to a mission to Washington, DC with Illinois FFA leaders, helping the next generation understand federal policy and giving students firsthand experience meeting lawmakers, agency staff, and national ag partners. This ongoing partnership strengthens future advocacy capacity and ensures young agricultural voices are heard in D.C.
Infrastructure & Export Advocacy
ICGA maintained steady pressure on Congress and federal agencies to fund locks and dams modernization—critical to Illinois’ export competitiveness and the nearly half of Illinois corn that relies on the river system.
Summer Member & Legislator Outreach
Throughout June and July, ICGA continued on-farm visits, district meetings, and summer ag events, deepening relationships with legislators and reinforcing the challenges of the current farm financial environment.

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Green U.S. map with corn stalk connected to a gas pump, representing biofuel.

Only Congress Can Fix Arbitrary E15 Barrier

By Lindsay Croke • January 22, 2026

Farmers have been advocating for access to E15 year-round for 15 years. Congress must act to change the policy language, but has failed to act yet again.

ICGA Reacts to Congress’s E15 Proposal

By Lindsay Croke • January 22, 2026

Illinois corn farmers urge Congress to act on year-round E15 access, calling inaction on ethanol policy a missed chance to support farmers and rural communities.

Celebrating Generations of Women Who Shape Agriculture

By Tara Desmond • January 22, 2026

Illinois Agri-Women is honoring multi-generational farm families led by women. Watch the story + learn how to apply

Inside the Elevator: Joe Williams Keeps Grain Moving at Yuton

By Tara Desmond • January 21, 2026

Meet Joe Williams, location manager at Yuton Grain Elevator, and learn how logistics, teamwork, and relationships keep McLean County grain moving.

Efficiency in Action: Strip-Till, Nitrogen Management, and Nearly 300-Bushel Corn

By Tara Desmond • January 21, 2026

Seventh-generation McLean County farmer Rob Park shares how strip-till, nitrogen efficiency, and innovation drive high yields while doing more with less.

Family portrait with children, animals, and related activities, displayed in a collage.

Meet Illinois Farmer & New Board Director Bryan Tomm

By Lyndi Allen • January 20, 2026

Bryan Tomm, the newly elected director representing District 13, encompassing Clay, Edwards, Jefferson, Lawrence, Marion, Richland, Wabash, Wayne, and White Counties for the ICGA.