Happy Holidays from Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam Extension!
Welcome to the December edition of the Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam Ag Newsletter! As we wrap up another year, I want to take a moment to thank you for being part of our agricultural community. Your dedication and resilience continue to inspire us, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you. Wishing you and your family a joyful holiday season and a bright, successful New Year!
Winter meeting season is here, and it’s one of my favorite times to reconnect, share ideas, and plan for the year ahead. We have some great programs coming up, including the Oglesby Agronomy Summit and our Sustainability on the Farm series—both designed to provide practical insights and tools for your operation. We hope to see you at these events as we work together toward a productive 2026!
Emerging issues:
Asian copperleaf identified in Illinois
University of Illinois researchers have confirmed the first sighting of invasive Asian copperleaf (Acalypha australis) in Stephenson County—making Illinois the third U.S. state to host this weed. The summer annual grows 1–2 feet tall, spreads by seed, and can be tricky to identify without its mature flower bracts. Farmers concerned about its presence can reach out to University Extension experts for help with identification and response.
Farmer Bridge Assistance program announced for 2025 crops
A $12 billion USDA “Farmer Bridge Assistance” (FBA) program was announced for 2025 row crops, with estimated payments averaging $35–40 per acre—roughly $46 for corn and $25 for soybeans—designed to offset lower crop returns. When combined with existing ARC/PLC payments these aid programs lift average projected returns in northern and central Illinois to near breakeven. More information is expected to be released next week with the individual commodity-specific payment rates.
New USDA pilot program to invest in regenerative practices
A new USDA pilot program will invest $700 million through EQIP and CSP to support regenerative farming practices, enabling farmers to apply once for multiple conservation measures via a "whole-farm" plan. The initiative focuses on enhancing soil health, water quality, and long-term productivity by promoting practices like cover crops, reduced tillage, and improved grazing management.
Research updates:
Terrestrial biodiversity grows with tree cover in agricultural landscapes
Adding trees along farm fields can significantly boost wildlife diversity. A University of Illinois study found that sites with full tree cover support up to three times more species than treeless areas, offering benefits like erosion control, cleaner water, and natural pest management.
Illinois scientists reveal how tile drainage transforms agroecosystems through soil oxygen
A University of Illinois study shows that tile drainage on farmland does much more than remove excess water—it boosts soil oxygen, which helps crops grow stronger by reducing stress and promoting early root development. This increase in oxygen also revs up soil microbes, speeding up nutrient cycling and improving soil health overall.
An Economic Assessment of Precision Conservation with On-Farm Precision Experiment Data
A recent study by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln revealed that using precision farming tools like GPS-guided tractors and yield monitors can help farmers strategically retire low-yield areas for conservation while maximizing productivity on the best land. This approach not only boosts profits but also enhances environmental benefits—essentially offering “corn, conservation, and cash” in one package.
Nature’s Kidneys: A review of 35 Years of USDA Wetland Restoration
For 35 years, USDA wetland restoration has turned farmland into natural filters—improving water quality, reducing flooding, and creating wildlife habitat. With over 3 million acres restored, these wetlands play a key role in Illinois’ Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy, helping keep nutrients out of waterways while supporting farm sustainability.
Phosphorus and Potassium tool in development by U of I researchers
Researchers at University of Illinois are developing a no-cost and confidential online tool aiming to provide farmers with phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) recommendations. This project began in 2022 with on-farm trials to hone in recommendations that account for different soil types, farming practices, and weather conditions. Farmers are now invited to try the tool and provide feedback so researchers can refine it to better meet the needs of Illinois farmers. For more information see this flyer. If you would like to try the tool for yourself please contact local Extension staff at emhansen@illinois.edu or 815-224-0896.
Illinois Centennial Soil Archive Project
Soil samples dating back to 1899 were recently discovered stored in a barn at the University of Illinois. This study seeks to resample the original locations to determine how soils have changed over time. See if your farm is one of these locations!
Additional resources:
The Illinois Agricultural Mental Health Voucher Program connects agricultural producers and their families with local mental health professionals. This program enables producers to seek mental health services at no cost to the producer and their family. For more information visit go.illinois.edu/MentalHealthVoucher
Farmers, we understand the rapid pace of federal policy changes can be overwhelming. To stay informed with research-based updates, we recommend following farmdoc on their website and YouTube channel for daily posts and videos. Farmdoc provides analysis, tools, and data to help Illinois’ farmers better manage their farm businesses.
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