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January 8, 2026

ILLINOIS FIELD AND BEAN, "THE SOYBEAN SUMMIT ISSUE"

This forward-focused issue of Illinois Field & Bean explores what's ahead for soybean production through the lens of what’s coming at the 2026 Soybean Summit. With insights tailored to help farmers stay ahead of emerging challenges and opportunities, this issue dives into evolving planting practices, pest and disease pressures, and cutting-edge strategies for sustainable growth. With insights on market trends and management innovations, it’s a guide to thriving in the seasons to come.

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NEW YEAR, NEW STATE LAWS

As the calendar flipped to 2026, more than 250 new laws went into effect in Illinois, such as changes to the wildlife code aimed at addressing deer nuisance issues faced by farmers and landowners across the state.

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FALL COVERS FOR SPRING SAVINGS DEADLINE APPROACHING

There are still acres available for the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s 2025-26 Fall Covers for Spring Savings (FCSS) program. The application window will close at 11:59 p.m. next Thursday, January 15.

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ILLINOIS LEOPOLD CONSERVATION AWARD SEEKS APPLICANTS

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award. The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

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2026 FIELD ADVISOR FORUM

Mark your calendar for the Field Advisor Forum on Thursday, January 15, at the Atkins Golf Club at the University of Illinois in Urbana, where you can dig deeper into agronomic data, learn from top researchers and sharpen your management strategies.

REGISTER NOW