Illinois Has Impact and Influence at Commodity Classic

At the annual Commodity Classic event, IL Corn helps shape policy that guides our work in Washington, D.C. throughout the year. This event is a valuable opportunity for our farmer leaders to expand their knowledge about programs, political dynamics and the overall direction of our advocacy efforts. 

This week we heard extensive discussion on tariffs, including the impact of current trade actions on companies in oversea markets. Prices are becoming a main concern for farmers; concurrently new tariffs and reciprocal tariffs are coming into play that farmers are told will lead to growing markets. Resolutions were being considered to improve and address tariff-related challenges. 

There were also concerns about potential workforce reductions in government agencies that impact the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and crop insurance programs. Farmer leaders from all over the U.S. debated efforts to ensure an adequate workforce, which is essential to maintain the necessary support and resources for farmers. 

Here is what our farmer leaders found most valuable during the sessions: 

ICGA President Garret Hawkins

• The policy book was reviewed and revised by adding and removing information to make it more efficient and relevant for the coming years 
• Engaging in discussions with representatives from other states and commodity groups, including soybean, sorghum, and wheat, to discuss ideas and strategies was insightful and an important aspect 
• There were many cutting-edge industry developments made, so the opportunity to connect with leading companies in technology, seed, and chemicals—as well as microbiology advancements—that are shaping the future of farming was very valuable 
• Being a farmer from Illinois and seeing a neighbor leading our national organization was an honor. These were great days to celebrate the leadership that IL Corn provides 

ICGA Vice President Mark Bunselmeyer

• The policy resolutions were crafted through debate by corn farmers across the United States. They were achieved by highlighting important perspectives for a valuable discussion 
• Ethanol action team reported about a pilot program with Casey’s to give a customer a free piece of pizza if they fill up with E15 (Unleaded 88) vs Unleaded 87. They will then track participants’ fuel choices in the future to see if they have converted the consumer to conscientiously make that decision in the future 

ICMB Chair Jeff Scates

• It was surprising that Secretary Rollins assured us that the disaster and emergency relief funding would reach the farmers by mid-March 
• There were over 8,000 signatures in support of year-round E15, even though our original goal was 5,000. We learned many of our industry partners such as John Deere and Corteva are also joining the campaign 

ICMB Vice Chair Tim Thompson

• With lower commodity prices, many farmers have made agronomic decisions that could minimize high yield potential for the upcoming crop 
• Expanding biological market is very confusing for growers 
• Very limited new active ingredients for weed control are in the foreseeable future 

The Commodity Classic event is an important opportunity that provides our farmer leaders with a chance to engage in policy discussions and stay informed on potential and current challenges within the ag industry. Learning from our farmer leaders, we will take their feedback to Washington, D.C. to advocate for policies that support our corn farmer members.