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.

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Profit Meets Conservation: Learn More About PCM in These Videos

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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

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Step 2

Review Your Field-Level Data

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Step 3

Customize Your Farm Strategy

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Step 4

Implement changes & track ROI

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NEWS

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What Illinois Corn Farmers Need to Know About 45Z

By Lyndi Allen • August 26, 2026
45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit is moving closer to implementation, and farmers should understand how their farming practices play a role in the value of the credit.
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From 10 Acres to Every Acre: Illinois Farmer Jay Whalen's Cover Crop Story

By Tara Desmond • August 20, 2026
Illinois farmer Jay Whalen shares his journey to cover crops, soil health and conservation and how the practices are improving his farm’s ROI.
Dr. Margenot in front of Alma Mater Plots

What Are the Alma Mater Plots? A New Long-Term Research Site Worth Watching

By Tara Desmond • August 20, 2026
The University of Illinois is building the next Morrow Plots (Alma Mater Plots) and Illinois farmers are helping shape the research questions for the next 150 years.
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Mission: Through grassroots advocacy, create a future for Illinois farmers in which they can operate freely, responsibly, and successfully.