From October 22 to 24, the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), in collaboration with the Illinois Corn Marketing Board (IL Corn) and Growmark, had the privilege of hosting the annual Congressional Staff Tour, providing an in-depth look at Illinois agriculture. Over the course of three days, staff members from various congressional offices traveled across many different agricultural sites in Illinois, engaging with farmers, industry leaders, and agricultural innovators to gain firsthand insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural sector. These 10 advisors came from not only Illinois, but offices representing, New York, Wisconsin, and Georgia as well as the USDA office in Washington D.C.
Day 1: Urban Agriculture and Food Innovation
The tour kicked off at Loyola University in Chicago in Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky’s district (IL-9). There, the group heard from Loyola’s Senior Program Manager Zach Waickman, and learned about how Loyola is a leader in sustainable urban agriculture and alternative energy. Loyola is a leader in sustainability and highlighted the university’s efforts to fuel it’s fleet by converting waste products and soybean oil into biofuels, lowering carbon emissions.
The second stop took the group to Historic Wagner Farms, in Glenview (IL-9). The stop highlighted the importance of preserving agricultural spaces in urban agriculture settings, not only to produce food but also as a means of educating the public about the agriculture industry. For many urban and suburban residents, Wagner Farms represents their closest connection to agriculture, offering a tangible way to understand where food comes from and how farming fits into the broader environmental and economic landscape in Illinois.
The day then concluded with a dinner on the farm of ISA Board Member, Steve Pitstick, in Elburn (IL-11) Congressman Bill Foster’s district, where discussions focused on the impact of the Farm Bill, conservation programs, agricultural regulations, and the broader agricultural landscape. Members of the Illinois Soybean Board and staff mingled with staffers and had a broad discussion on agriculture.
Day 2: Dairy, Seeds, and Agrotourism
The following day, the tour continued with an early departure to Muller-Pinehurst Dairy in Rockford (IL-17) Congressman Eric Sorensen’s district, where staffers gained a deep understanding of the dairy industry, animal agriculture, and the importance of food safety.
Shortly after, the group toured Syngenta’s R&D Center in Malta (IL-14) represented by Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, where they learned about advancements in seed technology and agronomic practices that are shaping the future of crop production.
The next stop highlighted Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. in DeKalb (IL-14), where participants saw a thriving business that grew from farm production. The discussions here focused on agrotourism, the marketing of locally owned farm products, and how farms can diversify to add value beyond traditional crop production.
The day wrapped up with a visit to GRAINCO FS in Morris (IL-16), represented by Congressman Darin LaHood, which showcased the crucial role of agricultural supply outlets in providing farmers with essential crop nutrients, pesticides, and fuel.
Dinner was then served at State Representative Jason Bunting’s Farm in Emington (IL-2) represented by Congresswoman Kelly, which offered participants a firsthand experience of Illinois harvest season, providing them with a vivid understanding of crop production and the complexities of how ag commodity flows both nationally and internationally.
Day 3: Crop Nutrients and River Commerce
The final day of the tour began at the GROWMARK Crop Nutrients Terminal in Seneca (IL-16). There, staffers learned about the importance of crop nutrients in agriculture and the innovative 4Rs approach – right source, right rate, right time, and right place to nutrient management which is crucial for sustainable farming.
The last stop was the Brandon Road Lock & Dam in Joliet (IL-14), where attendees were introduced to the critical role of waterway infrastructure in the movement of agricultural commodities. The discussion focused on the importance of locks and dams in ensuring the smooth transit of goods through the river system, vital to Illinois agriculture’s connection to both domestic and international markets.
Why It Matters
This Congressional Staff Tour was an important initiative by ISA, IL Corn, and Growmark to bridge the gap between Washington D.C. policymakers and Illinois’ agricultural community. By providing a firsthand educational look at the diversity of Illinois agriculture – from Urban Universities and Urban Ag to large-scale crop production – staffers gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that shape the agricultural landscape.
These experiences will better equip congressional staff to advise their representatives on key issues, including the Farm Bill, conservation efforts, trade policy, and rural infrastructure. As policymakers look toward shaping the future of U.S. agriculture, this tour highlighted the need for a continued focus on sustainable practices, technological innovation, and maintaining strong support for Illinois farmers.
ISA remains committed to fostering these vital connections and ensuring that Illinois agriculture continues to thrive and grow in a rapidly changing world.
