Mark Bunselmeyer has been rooted in central Illinois for his entire life. Based in Decatur, Mark farms in Macon County, where he grows corn and soybeans on ground that has been part of his family’s story for generations.
Farming is not something Mark chose later in life—it is what he has always known. Growing up in agriculture shaped both his work ethic and his perspective on farming. That foundation led him to the University of Illinois, where he earned a degree in Agricultural Economics through the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. His education provided him with an understanding of both the production and business side of farming—an important combination in today’s agricultural economy.
On the farm, Mark uses no-till practices, a conservation method that helps protect soil health, reduce erosion, and improve long-term sustainability. By minimizing soil disturbance, no-till farming helps keep valuable nutrients in place while improving water infiltration and organic matter. Mark has been enrolled with
Precision Conservation Management (PCM) for the past five years, using their data to fine-tune his conservation and nutrient management strategies. His favorite data in the RAAP report is looking at his nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), which helps him understand how effectively he is turning fertilizer into yield.
Farming is a family affair for Mark. He and his wife are raising two children, and he works alongside his father and brother-in-law, continuing a multi-generational tradition of family farming. Working together allows them to ensure the farm remains strong for future generations.
Fun Fact: He student taught high school agricultural education at Mount Pulaski under the guidance of Mr. Ralph Allen, the 2025 Golden Owl Winner (Illinois Ag Teacher of the Year). He then restarted the Maroa Forsyth Ag Program, and he taught for two years.
Q&A with Mark
What do you do for fun?
“I enjoy cooking multiple-course dinners for family and friends.”
What do you listen to in the truck or tractor?
“Radio is tuned to sports talk or alternative rock.”
What do you do in your free time?
“I enjoy reading. Currently working my way through Lee Childs.”
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
“Passionate fan of NFL and college football, as well as college softball.”
What’s something that instantly makes your day better?
“No line at ADM makes my day better.”
From your perspective, why is it important for farmers to be ICGA members, and how does our “seat at the table” really make a difference?
“It’s important to be a member of ICGA and other commodity groups to have representation that is aware of the challenges facing our industry at the state and national level. A voice that is not only fighting to promote positive legislation, but also a voice working to combat proposed legislation that would restrict and prohibit farmers from raising crops and livestock.”
