Blog Posts

huge pile of heads of broccoli
Grit, grandkids and garden rows: Growing vegetables and values in Central Illinois
During a recent visit to the Bloomington farmers market, I saw something that stopped me in my tracks. It was a perfectly formed, large, yellow...
Navigating the farmers' market like a pro
The farmers’ market is a place where healthy, fresh, and local meet. Who wouldn’t feel good about spending their hard-earned money here? Not only are...
A woman in knitted sweater holding paper bag with a famer both standing next to woven basket filled with fruits
2024 Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, and Putnam farmers market guide
June 20th is officially the first day of summer and with it comes the start of farmers market season.  Farmers markets are a great opportunity...
vegetables at a farmers market
Everything Local conference strengthens Illinois food supply chain
Illinois producers and agribusiness leaders are increasingly seeking new opportunities to boost local food systems. Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB),...
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News Releases

red barn with silo in green grass
U of I Extension hosting the Ogle County Farm Stroll Oct. 15
OREGON, Ill. - Have you ever wanted to see a beekeeper in action? Or pick your own apples and berries? Join us for this free, family friendly event that will satisfy your local food cravings and curiosities! On Sunday, October 15 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., University of Illinois Extension...
caucasian man in hat standing in field holding pink flowers
Fields of dreams: From 4-H to cut flower grower
​NORTHERN ILLINOIS – When Local Foods Small Farms Educator Grant McCarty is looking for inspiration, he makes his way to Clara Joyce Flowers. There, farmer Drew Groezinger inevitably has something new going on. There are high tunnels being...
cardboard box full of large and small tomatoes and banana peppers
Central Illinois communities come together to feed families
COLES COUNTY, Ill. – When MaryBeth Massey developed a project to address food insecurity in her hometown, she wanted to start small. By partnering with a local Amish community produce auction, she aimed to provide 1,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to families in need in...
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Videos

Heirloom Grains to New Customers: IL-EATS and a Phone Call

Andy Hazzard of Hazzard Free Grains grows heirloom corn, oats, and wheat to nourish her community. Through IL-EATS, she gained a reliable sales outlet and opportunities to invest in her farm – and received a phone call she never expected. 

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