Randy Stauffer: Environmental Award Recipient
 

Randy Stauffer of Morton, IL, was honored by the Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA) at their virtual annual meeting on November 24, 2020 for his commitment to farmers and their farming practices as they considered new conservation and sustainability goals. 

Stauffer worked for many years as a consultant for ICGA and the Precision Conservation Management project up until the time of his death on June 27, 2020. 

Randy’s work and expertise were foundational to the development of IL Corn’s Precision Conservation Management program which, under his guidance, has grown to become one of the most recognized conservation efforts in the Midwest. He was a constant stalwart of PCM and IL Corn and he was often the solitary voice of Midwest farmers at national and international events explaining patiently, and often repeatedly, why we must all work with farmers if we want to make lasting changes that improve water quality and soil health. He represented the IL Corn Growers Association, and all Midwest farmers, as a devoted member of Field to Market, the alliance for sustainable agriculture. Randy also worked tirelessly to champion farmer efforts with leaders in the ethanol world.

Stauffer graduated from the University of Nebraska with a degree in agriculture and worked for DuPont/Pioneer Seed prior to his retirement. 

“Randy Stauffer was an excellent addition to our staff, always thinking of corn farmers and working to preserve the family farm,” said Bill Leigh, President of the Illinois Corn Growers Association and Minonk, IL farmer. “He understood our work and he represented us to large companies like PepsiCo and Bunge who try to bridge the gap between what customers want regarding sustainability and what farmers can offer. More importantly, he was a friend to everyone in our office and a personal friend to me.” 

“Randy was a calm and steadying presence wherever he went, leading with humility, humor, and kindness. We are pleased to honor Randy Stauffer, his life and his legacy, in a very small way with this award expressing the appreciation of corn farmers in Illinois,” Leigh said. 

Stauffer’s wife, Stephanie, and his children accepted the award in his honor.
 

Watch Randy's Family Accept the Award