2026 butter cow: ‘Miles of Smiles’ is State Fair’s theme in celebration of Route 66
The fair will run from Aug. 13 through Aug. 23.
Illinois Department of Agriculture
‘A real farm crisis’: Illinois farm bankruptcies rise for 3rd straight year
Illinois produces some of the nation’s largest corn and soybean harvests, but family bankruptcy filings keep climbing.
Drought causing ongoing concerns, legislative hearings about Illinois water supply
Drought and data centers are driving concerns about water supply in Illinois.
For young people looking to take over Illinois farms, the costs can be steep
The average age of farmers in Illinois is over 58. High input costs, a hefty estate tax, and an older ...
Yearslong ethanol policy standoff could cost Illinois drivers at the pump yet again
A yearslong ethanol policy standoff could cost Illinois drivers at the pump yet again this summer.
‘Illinois farmers can feed Illinois’: State grant program offers assistance
Illinois food producers and businesses can apply for a share of $3.6 million in funding to support local food systems.
Illinois soybean farmers welcome federal aid, but fear long-term trade damage
Federal payments are headed to Illinois farmers after last year’s trade war.
Illinois to withhold nearly $500M in spending, citing federal uncertainty
Several state agencies will forgo hiring and keep funding in reserve to save money in the coming months.
State grants allow small Illinois farmers to develop local food-sharing networks
Local food system grants will return in 2026 with $4 million in funding.
Illinois ag director says Trump trade policies are ‘crushing’ farmers
The aid package is about half the size of one offered in the first Trump administration.
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