Commercial Agriculture

As Winter gives way to Spring and the temperature rises, one of the most important times in the agricultural industry is on the horizon: planting. Months of preparation and waiting since harvest will finally come to an end as farmers begin to put the next crop in the ground. However, even with a...

This blog post is the second in a two-part series discussing precision agriculture technologies (PATs) and the benefits they offer to farmers who adopt them. Part One discussed the history of PATs and the trends in adoption in the United States. While there are many benefits to farmers and the...

In today's rapidly evolving agricultural landscape, farmers rely on various technologies and tools to improve efficiency on their operations. Since the 1980s, precision agriculture technologies (PATs) have revolutionized how farmers manage their crops and livestock. By leveraging advanced tools...

This blog post is the second in a two-part series that analyzes the impact of international trade on agricultural production in the United States and Illinois. Part One introduced the concepts of trade and free trade agreements while also reviewing tariffs and the value international trade adds to...

For the United States agriculture industry, trade is vital. The United States is a leading agricultural producer and exporter, with a significant portion of its output aimed at international markets. Trade agreements and other trade policies allow U.S. farmers to reach new markets, enhance...

The agricultural landscape in the United States is constantly evolving, and understanding the current state of farm and ranch operations is crucial for stakeholders across the industry. While the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) conducts a complete census of agriculture every five...

This blog post is the second of a two-part series analyzing the history of the Farm Bill and the current proposals of a new Farm Bill in the United States Congress. Part one explored the history of agricultural policy in the United States from the early years of the Nation, through the Great...

The Farm Bill is a cornerstone of U.S. agricultural policy, shaping the landscape of farming and rural life for nearly a century. With the end of the 118th Congress fast approaching and discussions of a Farm Bill continuing, it's essential to understand the historical context that has led to its...

This is the second post of a two-part blog series exploring cash rents for 2025. Part One described what a cash rent agreement is, the different types of cash rent agreements, and the trends in cash rent rates across Illinois. This post will analyze the projections for farmer returns in 2025, how...