What’s included in the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s (IDOA) budget this year? From FFA memberships and educational programs to an increased workforce and enhanced conservation practices, FarmWeek’s Kay Shipman breaks down where dollars are being designated.

In a combined State-of-the-State and budget address, Gov. J.B. Pritzker promoted education investments as future cost-saving measures. Such long-term investments have “the greatest return for taxpayers with the most positive social and economic impact,” Pritzker told the General Assembly. He also explained his budget includes a first-of-its-kind investment to help expand food accessibility.

Over-the-top applications of products containing dicamba must be made in Illinois before June 12 or the V4 growth stage, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced. The new federal cutoff date replaces the June 20 cutoff that had been issued by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA). Read what IDOA will require for the 2023 growing season.

Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, has served as Illinois House Speaker since Jan. 13, 2021. FarmWeek’s Kay Shipman asked Speaker Welch for his priorities and views. Read them in this Q and A. Read more

The Mexican government issued a revised decree to ban glyphosate and genetically modified white corn used in human food, while allowing transgenic yellow corn for feed and industrial uses. “To jeopardize this whole (trading) relationship is just unfortunate,” said Neil Caskey, vice president of communications for the National Corn Growers Association, noting that if he was a Mexican livestock producer he would “be pretty concerned” where a supply of corn would come from.   Read more

Want to strengthen broadband connectivity and access in your area? Let the Illinois Broadband Lab know. With federal funds available, Illinois broadband officials want to hear from farmers and rural residents to develop a statewide plan to increase internet access and service.   Read more