Farm

The Illinois Farm Bureau is home to a wealth of fond and familiar traditions, first and foremost being the promotion and support of agricultural and farming traditions.
Yet, for many Illinois farmers, the tradition that means the most is the grassroots, member-driven decision making that stems from the IFB’s annual meeting. Each year, Illinois farmers gather during the first week of December to meet, discuss issues facing agriculture and set policy for the coming year.

FSA's committee ballots due Monday
Ballots are due next Monday for the Farm Service Agency's county committee elections. Those ballots were mailed to eligible voters in early November.
"The role and input of our county committee members is more vital than ever at a time when our country faces important choices regarding the funding and operation of our government," said Scherrie Giamanco, FSA state executive director.

The theme for the 2012 GROWMARK essay contest is “Cooperatives in a Global Environment.” The contest is open to all high school FFA members in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.
This is the 19th year for the program, sponsored by the GROWMARK System and FS member cooperatives, in conjunction with state FFA leaders. The purpose of the contest is to help young people develop their writing skills, learn about current issues impacting agriculture and understand the unique role of cooperatives.

The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives, and GROWMARK is joining in the yearlong celebration.
The international campaign kicked off on Oct. 31 in New York, and will highlight the contribution of cooperatives to socio-economic development, employment generation and social integration.