October - November Highlights Annual Report

State-Level Advocacy: Tariff Hearing & Executive Order Signing
House Agriculture Chair Sonya Harper (D-Chicago) held a subject matter hearing on the impact of tariffs on Illinois’ farm economy, where IL Corn’s Director of Exports and Logistics, Collin Watters, testified alongside other commodity leaders and the Illinois Department of Agriculture. ICGA also attended Governor Pritzker’s signing of Executive Order 2025-07 on a Taylorville farm—an acknowledgment of the multi-year economic strain caused by trade disruptions, falling demand, and high input costs.
National Recognition as Expert Voices
This fall, ICGA staff and farmer leaders were featured speakers across major national and regional conferences, underscoring ICGA’s role as a leading voice on sustainability, biofuels, and farmer economics. ICGA participated in panels elevating Illinois corn farmers in national policy and climate-smart agriculture discussions.
Organizational Momentum at the ICGA Annual Meeting
New officers and directors were elected for 2025–2026, and ICGA honored leaders through the World of Corn Award and Media Award—reinforcing the organization’s strength, credibility, and member-driven leadership.

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Rep. Darin LaHood, Cliff Lane, and Mike Shane

What Farmers Want Lawmakers to Understand About Agriculture

By Lyndi Allen • July 23, 2026

There are some common misconceptions that farmers want all lawmakers to understand about farming and agriculture.

Illinois Farmer Leslie Miller Helped Change How Corn Is Grown

By Tara Desmond • July 23, 2026

Learn how Illinois farmer Leslie Miller helped pioneer anhydrous ammonia use, transforming corn production and shaping modern nutrient management.

A Conversation With Rod on Where We've Been, Where We're Going

By Tara Desmond • July 23, 2026

Rod Weinzierl breaks down what IL Corn really does — from crop insurance breakthroughs to river infrastructure to advice for the next generation of farmers.

Where Are They Now: Nicole (York) Racey

By Pearl McDade • July 22, 2026

Nicole Racey reflects on her internship with IL Corn, her career in higher education, favorite memories, and advice for IL Corn interns

How a TV Reporter Ended Up Saving Her Family's Farm

By Tara Desmond • July 22, 2026

Tara Barrett-Duzan left journalism to save her family's farm after tragedy struck twice - a story now told in the documentary "The Farmer's Daughter."

2026 Cover Crop Coupon Now Live

July 16, 2026

2026 Cover Crop Coupon is here. New seed suppliers and application discounts give Illinois farmers more options to save on conservation practices.