Weekly Update: 01.18.24

ILLINOIS LEOPOLD CONSERVATION AWARD SEEKS NOMINEES

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2024 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award, which honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. Nominations may be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may nominate themselves by May 1, 2024.

THE FUTURE OF THE BIOFUEL SECTOR

The production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has increased from 1.9 million gallons in 2016 to 15.8 million gallons in 2022. U.S. airlines have committed to using 3 billion gallons of SAF by 2030, and Scott Irwin, a University of Illinois professor, predicts SAF will be the future of biofuel demand. 

BETTER BEANS SERIES: DON’T MISS THE FINAL EVENT!

There’s still time to register for the last Better Beans event in Deer Grove! Prepare for a successful 2024 growing season by gaining valuable insights from the ISA Agronomy team, university researchers, and agronomy experts. Register now to stay informed on the latest in soybean agronomy, sustainable production, and agribusiness management.

 COLD WEATHER BIODIESEL RESOURCES

Some fleet owners may mistakenly believe it’s necessary to decrease blend rates during cold weather months. However, by using best practices for storage and handling, biodiesel is a year-round fuel that boasts economic and environmental benefits. This resource guide will help you get started with what you need to know about using biodiesel in cold weather.

In a recent ILSoyAdvisor blog post, ISA Outreach Agronomist Stephanie Porter, CCA, shares ten highlights from her time as an Illinois Soy Envoy and encourages farmers, certified crop advisers, agronomists, and industry professionals to apply.