February 11, 2026

Farmers, advisers and conservation professionals looking to sharpen their skills and further Illinois’ stewardship practices are encouraged to apply for the Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership’s Soil Health Leadership Program which is accepting applications through March 1.



Soy foods align closely with the Dietary Guidelines’ emphasis on nutrient-dense, plant-based protein sources. They recognize foods such as tofu and tempeh for their protein content, as well as fermented soy foods like miso, which are valuable for gut health.


Southern corn rust is generally considered a “tropical disease,” but there were unusually widespread reports of the fungus across Indiana and Illinois in 2025.


Nick Seiter, University of Illinois Extension entomologist, said populations of both northern and western corn rootworms have developed resistance to all available Bt traits.


A common practice of adding an insecticide with a fungicide application at R3 is likely missing its mark with no return-on-investment, according to researchers.



Committed to protecting Illinois’ resources and the environment through farmer-led, locally-developed programs, Illinois Farm Bureau is awarding a record 34 grants for nutrient stewardship and pollinator projects to county Farm Bureaus across the state.