Farmers across the Midwest are on track for near record-high harvests of corn and soybeans, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack issued a natural disaster designation this week for farmers in many counties across Illinois, citing “sufficient production losses” due to weather issues. (Iowa Public Radio)  

The leading pumpkin producer in the United States, Illinois harvested 15,900 acres last year, more than twice as many acres as any other state, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. But climate change is a growing concern. (Daily News)

In Dekalb, Illinois, Whiskey Acres CEO Jamie Walter took a break from the combine to talk with Steve Alexander about the process of growing and harvesting corn for whiskey. Over a period of years, it is turned into premium, prize-winning bourbon whiskey. (WGN)

– On 21 October the Department for International Trade announced the Prime Minister had sealed a “ground-breaking” deal with New Zealand which it says will give a “boost to British exporters and small businesses as both countries ditch tariffs and cut red tape.” (The Pig Site)

The Electric Vehicle Energy Storage training program dovetails with the state’s goal of getting one million electric vehicles on the road by 2030, which was included in energy legislation that passed the General Assembly last month. The Bloomington-based program is designed to lure jobs to Illinois and teach students the technical skills needed for electric cars. (Chicago Sun Times

Relief is coming for farmers who experienced excessive moisture and flash flooding this spring and summer in 12 Illinois counties, according to state officials. (WGEM)