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The Precision Conservation Management (PCM) team is helping Illinois farmers turn conservation into real ROI.....and the best part? It’s free to participate. In fact, you may even get incentives for the conservation practices you’re already doing.
From strip-till to no-till to cover crops, PCM helps you:
✅ Analyze hands-on data
✅ Compare your results to peers (everyone's farm is anonymous)
✅ Find government and private cost-share programs
✅ Save on inputs like tillage and chemicals
"We’ve always been conservation-minded, but PCM showed us we’re not just doing what’s right for the soil—it’s also paying off."
👉 Your PCM field agent does the heavy lifting. You just share your data and meet a couple times. It’s that easy.
🔗 Learn more and get connected: precisionconservation.org
#ILCorn #PCMProgram #ConservationFarming #SustainableAg #StripTill #CoverCrops #NoTill #IllinoisFarms #FarmSmart #DataDrivenFarming
Meet a young farmer - Austin
It’s Ag Day at the Illinois State Fair tomorrow, kicking off with the annual Ag Breakfast on the fairgrounds, organized by the Illinois Department of Ag. 🌽🥞
IL Corn always looks forward to connecting with fellow ag professionals and even catching up with congressmen and women who attend.
Swipe through these photos from last year’s incredible event! 📸
#dyk the first Illinois State Fair was held in 1853.
Crop Progress Update for week ending 8.4.25 in the state of Illinois from USDA NASS.
🎥 NEW IL Corn TV Episode! 🌽
We're sitting down with Gracie Pierson from @ilfarmbureau to talk all things @ilfarmfam - what the coalition is, why it matters, and how it’s helping bridge the gap between consumers and the family farmers who grow their food.
Hear from Gracie and our own Lindsay Croke as they dive into:
👨👩👧👦 The truth behind the We Are the 96 campaign
🎥 The impact of the Innovation Grows Here docuseries
📲 Reaching new audiences on TikTok and beyond
🌱 Training farmer ambassadors to share real stories
🔬 Using data-backed research to build trust with Chicago consumers
And yes… we wrap it all up with a truly corny joke you won’t want to miss. 😉
▶️ Watch now and see how Illinois farmers are connecting with the next generation of grocery shoppers: https://youtu.be/Xyd27H3egJ0
#chicagoeats #IllinoisCorn #IllinoisFarmFamilies #WeAreThe96 #FamilyFarms #FarmAmbassadors #ConsumerTrust #ILFarmBureau #AgEducation #CornyJokes #InnovationGrowsHere #RealFarmersRealStories #ChicagoEats
Sarah farms near Champaign, Illinois. She also owns a grain bin building business and is on one of the IL Corn Boards.
There's still time to participate in the Old Truck Contest! Submit photo on here in the comments, message us or email marketing@ilcorn.org!
We've extended the deadline for photos to 8/4 at 5pm CST!
It’s National Intern Day so a shout out to Jennie and Lydia who inspired our “choose your character” video (amongst other things) and have done an amazing job this summer — doing even random things like building a table, hanging photos, painting a jenga, etc!!
We had a great time at Ag Night with the Cornbelters last Friday! IL Corn connected with consumers to share fun facts about Illinois farming and corn, while also celebrating the ag industry professionals who joined us. Big thanks to the Cornbelters and everyone who came out and hosted a table—we appreciate you!
Update on crop progress from USDA NASS. How's your corn quality?
Coming at the end of August! #farmprogressshow @ilsoybean
Cnservation Then and Now: Kris Reynolds from @american
#dyk Approximately 10% of the field corn harvested in Illinois is used for making corn sweeteners.
Our Farm Feature today is Head Bros. Land and Cattle at Normal CornBelters game tonight. Check out their website for tickets!
Head Bros. Land and Cattle is a multi-generational family farm rooted in Central Illinois, dedicated to producing high-quality crops and livestock with a strong focus on stewardship, innovation, and community. The operation grows corn, soybeans, and wheat while also managing a 500-head cow/calf herd with a specialization in embryo transfer.
The Head family brings together deep agricultural knowledge with forward-thinking practices, blending traditional values with cutting-edge approaches. From conservation-focused land management to a modern cattle program, Head Bros. Land and Cattle is building a legacy of responsible, resilient agriculture.
Foliar Disease Update in Illinois - Beck's Hybrids Matt gives an update
Crop Progress from USDA NASS as of 7.21.25. How's your crop?
#itscorn
🌽 Ever heard of a tassel-ear? It’s what happens when a corn plant gets confused and decides to be both male and female in the same spot! 🤯
Normally, the tassel (male part) is at the top and the ear (female part) grows on the side. But sometimes, corn says “why not both?” and pops a tassel right out of the ear! 🌽🎉
It won’t affect your harvest, but is interesting!
#FarmFacts #CornCuriosities #AgEducation #ILCorn #WeirdButTrue 🌽💬
Every Monday - a new episode airs! Message us to sign up for e-mail alerts!
It’s hard to believe 2025 is already more than halfway over. We’re taking a moment to look back at some of the top IL Corn stories from the first six months of the year. From personal stories to political news, these are the moments that caught your attention.
www.ilcorn.org/top-10-stories-of-2025
Link in comments
#throwbackthursday
🌽🌽🛻🛻🛻Contest Alert
>>> Submit your OLD truck photo to marketing@ilcorn.org by 8/2 at midnight.
• These photos will be collected and RE-POSTED on 8/6. The truck with the most votes by 8/15 at noon (CST) wins a $50 gift card!
>> Get an entry for this contest by liking, sharing, tagging or commenting on this post or voting as well for an IL Corn prize bundle.
This contest is not sponsored, administered or endorsed by Facebook.
Crop progress as of 7.13.25 according to USDA NASS stats.
Dairy Farmer -Dakota joins us - watch full episode at youtube.com/ilcorn
It's National Be Your own Superhero Day!
🌽What’s your superpower? Who's your hero on the farm?
Captain Cornelius says determination, resilience, and soil knowledge rank pretty high.
This #BeYourOwnHeroDay, we’re tipping our cap to farmers - the heroes growing fuel, food, and feed every single day.
#CaptainCornelius #FarmStrong #ILCorn #AgHero
Tech on the farm = less waste, more food, fuel and livestock feed -- same amount of land.
According to the most recent Ag census in 2022 around 10,600 farmers in Illinois are under age 35 which is about 8.8% of total farmers / producers. Does that surprise you?
Meet a 6th generation corn and soybean farmer from Logan County - Sam Opperman - who works alongside his father and sister. Together, they use no-till and strip-till practices to help preserve the land for future generations. In addition to field crops, the family also grows sweet corn to share with family and friends.
Sam stays active in the ag community through @ilfbyl and also gives back to his local church. When they’re not in the field, they enjoy spending time with family (especially their nieces and nephew)! 🌽👨👩👧👦
Last night’s storms didn’t hold back. Some central Illinois corn is looking rough this morning. 🌽💨
Corn Progress & Condition in Illinois week ending July 6th.
Share your crop progress in the comments!
We 💛 National Grilling Month. 127.2 million bushels grown in Illinois go to feeding livestock in the state!
Full episode at youtube.com/ilcorn - Matt from Beck's Hybrids!
July 4th Holiday Weekend is Here!
According to Instacart, purchases of sweet corn surge by 380% over the annual average heading into July 4th, outranking other grilling staples like baby back ribs and burgers.
Read more at www.ilcorn.org/summercorn
Dave Kestel (Illinois farmer) and granddaughter scouting some corn!
🎆 Share your favorite patriotic photo in the comments!
We were proud to be a part of the Stars and Stripes Half Marathon, 10K & 5K last weekend in Hoffman Estates, IL!
👉Our goal? To connect with non-farmers and share how corn is more than just food and fuel -- it’s a sustainable solution for everyday items like plastic🌽
Big thanks to @morganmyersagency for representing and joining in the fun.
Wishing everyone a great holiday weekend!
Corn growth from June 2 to June 30 in central Illinois #Corn2025 #CropProgress
Meet Bella and Chelsea -- two inspiring FFA students who are already making waves in ag! 🌽💪 @peotoneffa
From planning FFA events like yoga night to making artisan cheese 🧀, from teaching kids through Ag in the Classroom to dreaming of future farms 🐄🐓, these young leaders are proving that the future of ag is bright (and not just for kids with farming backgrounds!).
John Hurst sits down with these amazing students to talk leadership, innovation, mentorship, and what FFA means for the next generation of ag professionals. Plus, there's a corny joke you won't want to miss 😉🌱
📺 Watch the full episode now - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3oKgg4_3Is
#ILCornTV #FFA #YouthInAg #AgEducation #FutureFarmers #WomenInAg #LeadershipStartsHere #NotYourGreatGrandpasFarm
Looking for a recipe for July 4th?! Look no further! Chex
6 cups corn Chex. 1.5 cups white melting chocolate. 1 cup powdered sugar. red, white, and blue m&ms
food coloring
1. Split your corn Chex into 3 separate bowls with 2 cups Chex each
2. Melt 1/2 cup chocolate according to package per color
3. Pour over Chex
4. Add 1/3 cups powdered sugar to each color
5. Mix together and add m&ms!
Happy #NationalDairyMonth to all the cheese lovers out there!
Are you one of them? 🧀🧀 You’ve got Illinois corn farmers to thank… by growing the corn that feeds our dairy cows, they help make every delicious, cheesy bite possible. 🧀🌽🥛🥛
We love this from @centralsisters.il
In this video, Tim reflects on:
👉 The advice he’d give his younger self about being bold early -- buying ground, building barns, and investing in tiling
👉 How conservation practices like no-till soybeans, strip-till corn, and CRP/pollinator habitats play a role in his operation
👉 The impact of technology in farming - from precision planting over anhydrous strips to the challenges of keeping high-tech equipment running
>Throwing back to 2000! Comment if you know someone pictured!
>> Corn Plastic: A Renewable Solution to Plastic Pollution<<
✅ New research shows bio-based plastics can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 45% compared to petroleum-based plastic.
♻️ For single-use items like bags and cups, switching to plant-based alternatives can reduce emissions by up to 62%!
It’s one more way agriculture is part of the climate solution. 💡🌍
Read more: https://www.ilcorn.org/corn-plastic-a-renewable-solution-to-plastic-pollution
#SustainableFarming #Bioplastics #ClimateSmartAg #CornBasedPlastic #AgInnovation
📍56 Illinois farmers responded to our survey and here are the results of how crops are looking -- 5.4% of farmers were not done planting
Just for fun - CAPTION this photo!
🌽🎥 NEW on IL Corn TV!
Thinking about expanding your livestock operation? Meet Justin Lewis from the Illinois Livestock Development Group (ILDG)—a FREE resource for farmers across the state!
In this episode, Lyndi chats with Justin about:
✅ How ILDG helps farmers navigate livestock expansion
✅ Support with facility design, environmental management, and regulatory hurdles
✅ A heartwarming success story of a young farmer expanding a swine operation to return to the family farm
✅ Why adding livestock can be a smart move in today’s ag economy
From sketching ideas on notebook paper to cutting the ribbon on a new barn, Justin is here to guide farmers every step of the way. Whether you're just starting out or expanding for the second (or third!) time.
📺 Watch full episode at www.youtube.com/ilcorn
#ILCornTV #LivestockExpansion #ILFarmers #DiversifyYourFarm #FreeFarmHelp #NotToBeCorny
#dyk Illinois ranks second in the nation for corn production!
With an average yield of 218 bushels per acre in 2024, Illinois continues to be a leading contributor to the nation’s corn-driven economy supporting farming, processing, and related industries.
Trade is one of IL Corn’s top policy priorities because of its critical role in driving corn demand and supporting the agricultural economy. Check out the top U.S. Corn export markets.
Learn more about corn exports at www.ilcorn.org/export-trade
High sandy west side— well drained sandy soils = over 80 inches tall.
Lower heavier gumbo soils = 10 inches tall. Southern Illinois corn!#ilcorn
For this #farmfridayfeature - We are featuring Topflight Grain Cooperative!
Topflight is a farmer owned grain cooperative in the heartland of the USA in the middle of the Illinois grain belt.
> They store and transfer corn, soybeans and wheat which go to end users for animal/human consumption and industrial uses.
> They transport the grain by truck to local markets in Decatur IL, by rail to select markets usually in the south and southeast, and lastly by barge to overseas markets via the Illinois river.
> They employ around 50-60 people throughout the year and push close to 100 during harvest.
They're also being featured tonight at Normal CornBelters and on Normal Cornbelter's social media so hop over to their page to check it out!
We get excited every year for the State Fair and Ag Day Breakfast! Here's a couple #throwback photos from last year.🌽☀️ #TBT #ILStateFair #agday
We 💛our livestock partners and here's why...
Hear from Pat and Cassie - Farmers in Hampshire, Illinois!
👉👉Comment your crop quality and how tall your corn is!
Crop Progress & Condition Report Week Ending June 15 USDA NASS
🚜 From the best dirt in the world to cutting-edge technology, this week’s episode of IL Corn TV is all about how farmers are doing more with less and doing it better.
Lindsay Croke sits down with Matt from @heritagetractor to talk trends in ag equipment, why now is the best time to upgrade, and why trust is the secret sauce in any dealer relationship.
💬 “Deal with who you trust. Because when things break (and they will) you’ll want someone in your corner.”
🎥 Watch the full episode to learn how John Deere technology is helping farmers grow smarter, faster, and more efficiently than ever before -- link in comments or visit youtube.com/ilcorn
#IllinoisCornTV #HeritageTractor #JohnDeere #FarmTech #ModernFarming #FarmEquipment #TrustYourDealer #BestDirtInTheWorld
Happy Father’s Day to the original field managers, life mentors, and early risers who taught us the value of hard work (and how to fix just about anything with duct tape and a wrench).
Thanks, Dad. We wouldn’t be here without you...literally. 😄🌽
#FathersDay #FarmDadJokes #ILCorn #GenerationsOfFarming
Happy Flag Day! 🌽
Today we celebrate the symbol of our freedom, unity, and the values we hold dear as Americans.
For farmers, that flag flying high over the barn or field isn’t just decoration, it’s a daily reminder of hard work, resilience, and the pride that comes with feeding a nation.
From sunrise to sunset, you honor that flag with every seed planted and every harvest gathered. Thank you for standing tall for your land, your legacy, and your country.
#FlagDay #FarmStrong #ProudToBeAFarmer #StarsAndStripesAndSoil #ILCorn
Don't forget it's Ag Night tomorrow at the Normal CornBelters!
Get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/agnight2026 - Use code 'corn' to get 50% OFF!
🌽⚾ In our book, ALL farmers are MVPs....no question about it. But during our Farmer MVP Contest to celebrate baseball season, we gave a few extra cheers to these three standouts! 🏆🎉
Congrats to our randomly selected prize wheel winners:
🥇Tommy & Maddi Mullvain - 4th Generation Farmers
🥈 Doug Uphoff - 4th Generation Farmer
🥉 Ike Hutchcraft - 4th Generation Farmer
Thanks to everyone who stepped up to the plate — and for all you do every day. 👩🌾👨🌾 You're the real all-stars! #FarmerMVP #BaseballSeason #ILCorn #ThankAFarmer
Updated Crop Progress and Condition report for week ending June 8, 2025.
*18 State Report provided by USDA NASS
The new PCM Data Book is out and it’s packed with insights made possible by real farmers across Illinois. By anonymously sharing their data, PCM participants help uncover trends tied to today’s markets, conservation practices, and regulations. The result? Smarter, more profitable decisions for everyone. Go to precisionconservation.org to see the data!
👉👉New PCM Report Highlights Profit-Boosting Conservation Practices
Precision Conservation Management just released its 2025 report in Prairie Farmer, featuring 10 years of real-farm data from Illinois.
📍The report offers actionable insights on improving profits through reduced tillage, smarter nitrogen use, and shifting focus from yield to ROI whether or not you’re enrolled in PCM.
https://bit.ly/pcm2025data
🌽 Meet John Klemm — 5th generation farmer from Waynesville, IL and the #farmfridayfeature at Cornbelters tonight!
John and his wife Megan are raising their 3 kids on a farm where they grow corn & soybeans, raise Angus cattle, and run a freezer beef business. He’s also a crop insurance agent, Farm Bureau board member, school board chair, IL Corn board director and church leader.
Committed to conservation and community, John’s leadership and passion for ag run deep.
💪 #ILCorn #FarmerSpotlight #LeadershipInAg #farmfridayfeature #cornbelters
🌎 World Environment Day 🌱
Here in Illinois, every day is Environment Day when you’re a farmer.
From improving soil health with cover crops to reducing tillage and protecting water quality, Illinois farmers are leading the charge in sustainable agriculture because caring for the land isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life.
💡 Did you know?
Illinois has over 27 million acres of farmland (that’s about 75% of the entire state). To put it in perspective, that’s more farmland than the entire country of Austria has land and they’re nearly the same size.
When it comes to protecting the planet, farmers aren’t just part of the conversation, they’re part of the solution. 🌽🌾🌎
#WorldEnvironmentDay #SustainableFarming #IllinoisAg #EveryDayIsEnvironmentDay #ILCorn #AgFacts #SoilHealth #CleanWater #FarmersForTheFuture
Crop progress for week ending June 1, 2025.
🌽 This week, IL Corn had the honor of welcoming a delegation of top Japanese reporters for an in-depth look at the U.S. ethanol industry and the role of corn in creating clean, sustainable fuel.
📍 Organized by the @usgrainscouncil, the visit focused on how U.S. corn is used for food, feed, fuel -- and now, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). From ethanol producers to corn farmers and policy leaders, the delegation heard firsthand how Illinois corn is helping power a more sustainable future.
🌱 These conversations matter. Japan is a key export market for U.S. corn and ethanol, and media coverage from this trip will help Japanese consumers, end users, and policymakers better understand the reliability and environmental benefits of U.S. bioethanol.
💬 We’re proud to play a role in advancing global conversations about sustainable fuel—and we remain committed to growing opportunities for Illinois corn. #ILcorn #Bioethanol #SustainableFuel #USGC #CornToFuel #Ethanol #AgExports
Plant progress in Rock Island, Illinois. Comment with yours!
New Episode of IL Corn TV coming out tomorrow with Tim Thompson!
Meet the 2025 IL Corn Communications Interns! 🌽🎉
We're thrilled to welcome our new communications interns to the IL Corn team! These talented individuals will be sharing the stories of Illinois corn farmers, advocating for agriculture, and bringing fresh perspectives to our communications efforts.
Stay tuned as they take you behind the scenes of Illinois agriculture throughout the summer! 🚜📸
#ILCorn #AgInterns #FutureAgLeaders #InternshipExperience
🚨 Pest & disease watch for the 2025 corn crop! 🌽
As planting continues, two U of I experts are helping farmers stay ahead of threats in the field.
🔍 Dr. Nick Seiter reminds us: “Every year is different.” Migratory pests like corn leaf aphids & rootworm depend on weather patterns—not winter temps. Early-season pests to watch: seed corn maggots, white grubs, cutworms & more. Cool, wet conditions = higher risk.
🌾 Fast-emerging crops = less damage. Scout slow-growing fields closely.
🦠 Dr. Boris Camiletti says: “Tar spot is here to stay.” His research is improving fungicide timing, decision apps, and understanding mycotoxins—a growing concern for ethanol.
👉 Stay informed. Scout smart. And spray only when needed. Listen to full audio interview here: https://soundcloud.com/ilcorn/scouting-the-season-illinois-experts-weigh-in-on-corn-pests-and-disease
@ilextension
#ILCorn #Plant24 #CornPests #TarSpot #CornScouting #UofIResearch #FarmingSmart
#ThrowbackThursday to the 90s! 🕶️📼
IL Corn’s Board of Directors has always been made up of farmers leading for farmers. These farmer-leaders were the voice of Illinois corn growers in Springfield and D.C. --just like they are today.
Here’s to the dedicated directors of the 1990s who paved the way! 🌽🇺🇸 #TBT #ILCorn #FarmerLeaders #AgLeadership
Comment below on your crop progress and what part of Illinois you're in!
There were 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending May 25, 2025. Statewide, the average temperature was 59.4 degrees, 6.0 degrees below normal.
*Sources: USDA NASS
This Memorial Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
As farmers, we know the value of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication - values our fallen heroes lived by every day. Today, we remember them with gratitude, from fields that flourish because of the freedoms they defended.
#MemorialDay #FarmStrong #GratefulNation #ThankYouVeterans
If you're grilling out this weekend - Follow these tips!
Rooted in tradition, growing toward the future! Be part of the legacy with NCGA’s #YieldContest. Early entry is now open at ncga.com/YieldContest. Let’s break new ground together! #AmericasCrop
Where innovation meets tradition. Step into the next era of excellence with the #YieldContest. Early entry is live — claim your place in history at ncga.com/YieldContest. #AmericasCrop
A proud legacy. A bold future. Join generations of growers who have shaped agriculture through the #YieldContest. Early entry is happening now at ncga.com/YieldContest. Let’s grow the next chapter! #AmericasCrop @corngrowers
#TBT to when Captain Cornelius hit the big leagues spreading corn-fed cheer at the St. Louis vs. Cubs game last year! ⚾🌽 Nothing like baseball, good company, and a mission to grow excitement for corn from the stands to the field. Look out for us this season!
St. Louis Cardinals Chicago Cubs
#CornBelongs #BaseballAndBushels #CaptainCornelius
Jun 3, 2025 @ 11:00 AM | 10 Years of PCM Data: What Actually Pays on Your Farm?
👉What in-field practices are really making money on Midwest farms? Join us for a webinar on June 3rd as we dig into 10 years of PCM financial analysis from Illinois farms.
👉We’ll show how reduced tillage systems, optimal nitrogen rates, and strategic use of cover crops can protect your margins - especially in years where profitability is a challenge.
👉Learn what the most profitable farmers are doing differently and how you can apply these insights to your own operation.
Register here (link in comments too!): https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4021500507183045464
There were 5.8 days suitable for fieldwork in the week ending May 18, 2025.
What does PCM offer that's unique? Watch this sneak peek of a new episode of IL Corn TV! Full episode at youtube.com/ilcorn
👉👉Serious mental illness (#SMI) affects millions, yet stigma keeps many from seeking help.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Let’s make sure everyone gets support. Learn more: samhsa.gov/mental-health/serious-mental-illness/managing-life #EndtheStigma #mham2025
May is #mentalhealthawarenessmonth
It's #farmerfriday so we are featuring farmer Opey Rowell who farms in Mason County in Illinois
👉He’s been farming since 2015, and five years ago, he started incorporating cover crops thanks to a tip from a friend. Now, nearly every acre he farms has a cover crop growing on it.
📍Opey uses wheat ahead of corn and cereal rye ahead of soybeans, and he keeps it simple. “If you are new to cover crops, start basic,” he advises. “You're going to get rewarded.”
Read More: https://bit.ly/opeyFarmer
We’re heartbroken to say goodbye to our dear friend and colleague, Dave Loos. His passion for agriculture, his pioneering work in biofuels, and his deep love for people made an unforgettable impact on Illinois and on all of us at IL Corn. Dave wasn’t just part of our team; he was family. We will miss his wisdom, his laughter, and his unwavering belief in the future of farming.
Read more: https://bit.ly/rememberingdaveloos
🌱 Cover Crops in Action: Crimson Clover & Balansa 🌱
Check out this Illinois farmer's field where crimson clover and balansa are thriving! Soon, corn will be planted right into this cover - no tillage needed. The farmer uses double disk openers that slice through the cover crop with ease, and cast iron Yetter Twister closing wheels that perform beautifully in these conditions.
👉Why crimson clover? It helps manage the carbon penalty we often see with cereal rye, which can tie up nitrogen. By using crimson, they can typically reduce nitrogen rates by about 40 pounds per acre — a solid win for both efficiency and the environment.
👉This field sits on Highly Erodible Land (HEL), so soil disturbance is kept to a minimum. The farmer deep bands nutrients using Yetter Magnum units with a single disk opener, and then plants a couple of inches off the nutrient band. The cover crop is terminated after planting but before the corn emerges.
Smart practices. Strong conservation. Better soil health. 🌾
Photo Credit: @progressiveagronomyconsulting
#CoverCrops #CrimsonClover #BalansaClover #NoTillFarming #SoilHealth #SustainableAg #ILCorn #ConservationInAction #CarbonPenalty #HELground
🚨BIG MOMENT FOR IL CORN IN DC🚨
Today, Megan Dwyer, farmer, mom, certified crop advisor, and Director of Conservation and Nutrient Stewardship for IL Corn testified before Congress, and let’s just say… she crushed it. 💪🌽
Representing Midwest farmers and speaking from the heart of her own lived experience, Megan brought real, grounded insight to Capitol Hill. She’s not just talking conservation -- she’s living it. From running her family farm and raising the next generation, to advocating for science-based, farmer-friendly policy, Megan proves that our team belongs at the table where decisions are made.
✅ She called for smarter conservation funding.
✅ She championed flexible, regionally tailored programs.
✅ She reminded lawmakers that Illinois is more than Chicago -- it’s 70% farmland.
✅ And she made the case that protecting our most productive soils is essential for feeding the world.
Her chocolate chip cookie analogy? 🧑🍳 Perfection.
This is why IL Corn fights to be in DC. Because the voices of real farmers especially ones as brilliant and passionate as Megan must be heard in rooms where policies are shaped.
📣 Let’s hear it for Megan! Drop a congrats in the comments if you're proud to have her representing Illinois farmers on the national stage.
Watch her full testimony here: https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/hearings/perspectives-from-the-field-part-4-conservation
@farmin_88
#ILCorn #ConservationMatters #SoilHealth #FarmersInDC #WomenInAg #FarmBill #ProtectOurSoil #AgPolicy
Illinois Crop Progress and Condition for week ending May 11, 2025 from USDA NASS.
Farm moms, IL Corn moms, dog moms, tough-love moms, soft-hearted moms -
Happy Mother’s Day to all the strong, caring women who help grow more than just crops. 🌽❤️ #MothersDay #FarmMoms #ILCorn
>>CONTEST ALERT<<
• Nominate a MVP of your farming operation for their chance to win $100 gift card and a free suite at the Cornbelters baseball stadium
• To enter send a photo of your nominee (or nominate yourself) with your/their name, where the farm is located and what generation farmer they/you are to marketing@ilcorn.org by June 5th at 5pm CST.
• Two winners will be randomly selected through a prize wheel on June 6th and announced on social media with their photos.
@normal_baseball @normalcornbelters
#farmerfriday - New episode of hog farmer Chad coming next Monday! Chad Bell
#TBT to the many years IL Corn has proudly supported Pork Power - a program that gets high-quality pork into local food banks across Illinois. 🐷💪
Since the very beginning, we’ve invested in this incredible effort because we believe in the power of protein and the power of farmers giving back.
Protein is essential. Community is everything. And Pork Power brings them both together. ❤️
📸 Swipe through the years with us serving food banks, standing beside farmers, and strengthening our state, one donation at a time.
@illinoispork
#PorkPower #ILCorn #FarmersFeedFamilies #GivingBack #FoodSecurity #ProteinMatters #ThrowbackThursday
For the week ending 5/4/25 in Illinois the average temp was 59.2.
👉👉32% corn planted in Illinois and 8% emerged
📈 For 51 years, IL Corn and the U.S. Grains Council have done more than grow markets - we’ve grown leaders, connections, and opportunity.
What started with shadowing IL Corn staff has led to global leadership, shared innovation, and a stronger future for farmers.
Because when partnerships last, they make a lasting impact.
🌽 Strong partnerships. Stronger results. Congrats to USGC on 65 years! Watch full episode at youtube.com/ilcorn
#AgPartnerships #GrowingMarkets #FarmLeadership #SustainableAg #ILCornTV
🌽✨ May the 4th Be With You! ✨🌽
A long time ago, in a galaxy not so far away…
Corn was the chosen one.
It fuels starships (thanks, ethanol), feeds alien livestock (even banthas need gains), and pops into the perfect snack for your Jedi movie marathon.
The Force is strong with this crop.
Here's to the true hero of the galaxy - corn: defender of fuel, food, and fun. 🚀🌽💥
#MayThe4thBeWithYou #CornWars #ILCorn #TheCornAwakens #BanthaApproved #PopcornNotStormtroopers
Flexibility is Key with Cover Crops
Planting update from Southern Illinois
Congrats to our 5 Scholarship Recipients! Read a little about them here: https://bit.ly/2025ilcornstudents
Stay tuned for social media spotlights on them!
For #worldlaughterday caption EITHER of these photos! A random winner will be drawn to win some IL Corn socks!
From the farm to D.C. and Springfield, our IL Corn Growers Association farmer-leaders are on the ground advocating for YOU and your farm. Want your voice heard? Join ICGA today.
www.ilcorn.org
E-mail devin@illinoisbeef.com by May 2 to get your mom recognized!
Comment with your planting status!
👉 Sweet corn is what you eat fresh, canned, or frozen. It’s harvested while still young and soft, giving it that deliciously sweet flavor we all love at summer cookouts.
🌾 Field corn (also called dent corn) makes up the majority of corn grown in the U.S. It’s harvested when dry and mature and have over 4,000 uses including livestock feed, ethanol, cornmeal, and all sorts of everyday products.
So next time you drive by a cornfield, know it’s probably not meant for your dinner plate - unless you're fueling your car or feeding livestock first! 😉
#CornFacts #SweetCornVsFieldCorn #KnowYourFood #FarmToFork
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