The willingness to pay a premium for healthier food has always been a marketing point for the “organic” brand, and a big reason businesses stretch its meaning to the breaking point, labeling products “organic” when they aren’t. But as lucrative as the sector has become, there’s a more rarefied label the industry can aspire to. It’s called “regenerative,” and it may very well become the next “organic.” (Bloomberg)

Mike Briggs’ goal for his farm in 2021 has been to “get back to life as normal.” He’s aiming to revert to the point where he doesn’t need compensation from the government — something that helped his business stay afloat last year amid the coronavirus pandemic, and again with another cash infusion in April. (Journal Gazette & Times-Courier)

The weather plays a big role in the success or failure of our farmers. ABC7 Meteorologist Larry Mowry visited a farm in Will County to find out how farming is adapting to changes in our weather patterns. He met up with farmer Dave Kestel at his farm in Manhattan as he was planting soybeans. (WLS)

– Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack held a press call Thursday to explain several government announcements regarding conservation and climate. (Successful Farming)

With planting season underway, the overseer of the Illinois State Police’s social media channels is driving home the importance of being mindful of massive, slow-moving farm vehicles. (Star Courier)

While Community Supported Agriculture models are not new, many of today’s farms are adding value for their customers by increasing flexibility of what foods are offered, how foods are purchased, and even partnering with other farms and businesses to provide more than vegetables. University of Illinois Extension is offering a monthly webinar series beginning Wednesday, April 21, to help you navigate the Illinois growing season. (Journal Gazette & Times-Courier