The countdown continues to the Illinois State Fair. Visitors can enjoy an updated Multi-Purpose Arena. Renovations included repaired sidewalks and electrical systems to the installation of a new canopy.   Read more

Xochitl Torres Small, nominee for deputy ag secretary, was questioned on how she would manage USDA’s daily operations and oversee the department’s nearly 100,000 employees during a Senate Ag hearing.   Read more

With planting progress running ahead of schedule, there will be plenty of supply. The expectations that are changing are related to demand outlooks — and that seems to bring more bearish sentiment each week. Matt Houston of New Frontier Capital Markets shares his outlook.   Read more

Find out the potential of this year’s winter wheat crop during the Illinois Wheat Association’s annual Southern Illinois Wheat Tour. Participants will visit four locations, collecting samples and data to be compiled and discussed at the Southern Illinois University Belleville Research Center. “We’re optimistic it will be a good wheat crop,” said Mark Miller of Mennel Milling Company in Mount Olive, which will be a stop on the tour.   Read more

Don’t miss the May 26 deadline to sign up for the grassland Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Grassland CRP is a unique program that allows farmers and landowners to continue cutting hay and grazing livestock while conserving grasslands and promoting biodiversity.   Read more

Bayer will move 10 regional seed brands, including two in Illinois (Lewis and Stone Seed Group), to its Channel Seed brand lineup. The move will not impact the 2023 growing season.   Read more