Implementation of a bipartisan bill to encourage the use of higher blends of biodiesel went into effect on Monday, April 1. Biodiesel is a cleaner-burning alternative to traditional diesel, as it significantly improves air quality and mitigates the impact of transportation-related greenhouse gases. The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), American Lung Association, and other supporters call the new law a landmark statute that will benefit all Illinoisians as well as the state’s environment.

Last call! Nominations for the 2024 Illinois 20 Under 40 Awards close on Sunday, March 31. We’re championing the young farmers who are leading the field and raising the bar on the farm and in their community, committed to growing our industry. Know one? Don’t miss the opportunity to recognize them for their commitment to Illinois agriculture; nominate them today!

On Monday, the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) announced the opening of its Soy Innovation Center, designed to support and catalyze the State of Illinois’ goal to be a national leader in sustainable technology and innovation. The launch of ISA’s new Soy Innovation Center will enhance the state’s green reputation and spearhead the commercialization and expansion of new and existing sustainable, soy-based products as the globe transitions to a low-carbon economy.

Six respected crop advisors and agronomists have been selected to serve as ILSoyAdvisor Soy Envoys for the 2024 growing season. The agronomy and crop specialists will offer Illinois soybean farmers valuable insights, advice, and real-time updates via the ILSoyAdvisor Field Notes blog and Online Crop Report. The Soy Envoy program, funded by the Illinois Soybean checkoff program, helps empower Illinois farmers with the latest soybean production techniques, helping them achieve higher yields and increased profits while conserving the environment.

The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is now accepting project proposals for FY25 that strategically align with the organization’s key priority areas: market development, soybean production and communications. Proposals will be assessed on providing a return on ISA’s mission to uphold the interests of Illinois soybean producers and will be evaluated on their effectiveness in addressing the needs of Illinois farmers.

On February 1, the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) hosted its annual Soybean Summit at the I Hotel in Champaign, Ill. If you weren't able to attend or need a refresher on the initiatives taken on by ISA’s Soybean Production Committee, check out the replay on ISA’s YouTube channel!