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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Love Is Everywhere (Especially in Corn)

By Tara Desmond • February 11, 2026

From chocolates to fuel tanks, discover the surprising ways corn connects to Valentine’s Day and find thoughtful gift ideas for your favorite farmer.

Two Sides of the Same Field: How Illinois Corn Farmers Invest in Their Future

By Tara Desmond • February 11, 2026

Discover how ICGA and ICMB serve Illinois corn farmers through advocacy and checkoff investments—two roles working together as IL Corn.

Feeding Illinois: Connecting Farmers to Local Food Pantries

By Tara Desmond • February 11, 2026

Feeding Illinois shares how farmers, food banks and volunteers work together through Farm to Food Bank and Grain for Good on IL Corn TV.

Aerial view of a busy port with cargo ships, cranes, and stacked shipping containers, with a body of water and city in the background.

What’s at Risk if USMCA Isn’t Enforced or Renewed

By Lyndi Allen • February 11, 2026

USMCA is known for being a trade success story for the various beneficial pathways that it provides for North Americans, which is why it must be fully enforced and renewed on time.

Meet Chris Gould: Former Navy Pilot and Illinois Farmer

By Tara Desmond • February 5, 2026

Former Navy fighter pilot Chris Gould shares how military leadership, sustainability, and teamwork shape success on his Illinois corn farm.

Growing Markets, Trust, and Conservation: How IL Corn Checkoff Dollars Work for Farmers

By Tara Desmond • February 5, 2026

Illinois corn farmers invest checkoff dollars with one goal in mind: creating long-term value for every bushel grown.