ILGLC launches online grazing and forage resource hub

BREESE, Ill. — The Illinois Grazing Lands Coalition in partnership with the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council, University of Illinois Extension and the Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service announced the launch of a new educational initiative for producers: the Illinois Grazing and Forage Hub.

Known simply as The Hub, this free, farmer-focused online platform is designed to help Illinois producers improve pasture management and grazing practices, regardless of experience level.

Available now at www.grazingforage.com, The Hub brings together grazing guidance, forage selection tools, industry event calendars and producer stories all in one easy-to-navigate space.

“The Hub was created as a central starting point for anyone in Illinois looking to manage their land and forages better, smarter and more sustainably,” said Logan Karcher, director of producer programs at ILGLC.

“Whether you’re a first-time grazier, a landowner or a seasoned livestock producer looking to fine-tune your system, you’ll find tools and insights here that are practical and producer-tested.”

The Illinois Grazing and Forage Hub includes:

• Help center that connects producers with peers and experts based on topic.

• Producer stories and case studies from working farms across the state.

• State-specific resources including resources, programs and grazing groups.

• Industry calendar for finding grazing events and technical support.

• Forage management tools to help plan species mixes and extend the grazing season.

The Hub was developed in response to a growing demand for accessible, Illinois-focused grazing information. By gathering technical resources, firsthand farmer experience and event access into a single site, ILGLC and its partners hope to equip more producers with the tools they need to manage land profitably.

Farmers and graziers are encouraged to explore The Hub, bookmark it and share it within their local grazing networks.