Precision Conservation Management

Jonah - a PCM Specialist in a corn field

Helping Illinois corn farmers build resilient, profitable, conservation-minded operations. Precision Conservation is a smarter approach to sustainable farming. Powered by real on-farm data, this strategy helps Illinois farmers reduce input costs, improve soil health, and stay profitable—while protecting natural resources.

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Why it Matters for Illinois Farmers

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DATA-DRIVEN

DECISIONS

Use real farm data to guide smart conservation investments that actually boost the bottom line.

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FARM-FIRST

APPROACH

Built with farmers, for farmers - this isn’t about mandates. It’s about profitability and long-term success.

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PROVEN RESULTS

Hundreds of Illinois farmers have adopted precision conservation and seen measurable gains.

Hear from Illinois Farmers who have joined PCM

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Profit Meets Conservation: Learn More About PCM in These Videos

Tony Stierwalt

Champaign County Farmer & PCM Participant

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Laura

Dr. Laura Gentry

How PCM Builds Farmers' Trust

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Meet Lou - A PCM Specialist

PCM has specialists all over Illinois who come directly to your farm.

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Margaret

PCM Partner PepsiCo

Pepsico has been partnering with the Precision Conservation Management program for years.

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Ready to take the first step?

PCM Checklist

Step 1

Contact PCM Specialist

Step 2

Review Your Field-Level Data

Step 3

Customize Your Farm Strategy

Step 4

Implement changes & track ROI

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NEWS

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Illinois Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

December 5, 2025
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award.The award honors farmers who go above and beyond in their management of their working land.
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Dr. Schnitkey on Costs, Prices & Tillage Profitability

By Tara Desmond • December 5, 2025
Dr. Gary Schnitkey explains why farm finances remain tight for 2025–26 and how PCM data shows no-till and strip-till improving profitability for Illinois farmers
Rows of green crops growing in a field under a blue sky.

Reminder: Activate Your ICGA Cover Crop Coupon Before December 31

By Lyndi Allen • December 4, 2025
As part of our continued commitment to help farmers manage risk, protect soil health, and stretch every dollar, the IL Corn Growers Association is proud to continue the Cover Crop Coupon Program
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Mission: Through grassroots advocacy, create a future for Illinois farmers in which they can operate freely, responsibly, and successfully.