The Stories & Videos Illinois Farmers Loved This Winter and Spring

The first three months of 2026 has been packed with stories and videos that shine a light on the people, practices, and policies shaping Illinois agriculture. From spotlighting innovative farmers to important policy updates, here’s a look back at our top five stories and top five videos.

Top 5 Stories

1. USDA Opens Farmer Bridge Payments – Apply by April 17
   Farmers can now apply for bridge payments to help manage cash flow during uncertain market conditions. This timely announcement gives Illinois farmers a safety net as planting season ramps up.
2. All Winners in Our Eyes: Celebrating Top Farm Photos
   We celebrated the photographers behind our photo contest on Facebook, highlighting the people, landscapes, and moments that make Illinois agriculture extraordinary.
3. Efficiency in Action: Strip-Till, Nitrogen Management, and Nearly 300-Bushel Corn
   A deep dive into cutting-edge farming practices that push yields higher while managing nitrogen responsibly.
4. Inside the Elevator: Meet Julie Day from TopFlight Grain
   Meet Julie Day, a grain elevator professional helping farmers navigate storage, logistics, and market opportunities in Illinois.
5. USDA’s Vaden Speaks Out on Nutrien-Mosaic Fertilizer Price Collusion
   Important insights from USDA leadership on fertilizer market challenges, highlighting efforts to protect farmers from unfair pricing practices.

Top 5 Videos

1. Record Corn Crop – Economist Krista Swanson talks supply and demand with new numbers released.
2. Meet Kate: Illinois Pink Hat Farmer – Learn how Kate combines passion and perseverance to farm with heart.
3. Meet Chris: Former Navy Pilot & Illinois Farmer – Discover how Chris transitioned from military life to farming in Illinois.
4. Musician Chicago Farmer – Learn about musician Cody of Chicago Farmer and get a behind the scenes look at his music as a Delavan, IL native.
5. Funny Meme 6-Second Video – A quick laugh that proves farming life can be both serious and silly.

From farm fields to policy discussions, and from serious yield strategies to lighthearted moments, the first quarter of 2026 reminds us why agriculture matters both to our communities and to the world.