Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has signed a memorandum of understanding to create a statewide program aimed at standardizing soil health practices. This initiative is part of efforts to promote the use of cover crops, strip till, no-till, and erosion and sediment control among farmers. Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the importance of agriculture in Illinois, stating, "Agriculture is the heart of who we are as a state, and it's our biggest industry."

The program will utilize Saving Tomorrow's Agricultural Resources (STAR), an initiative started by the Champaign County Soil & Water Conservation District. STAR provides a free tool for farmers to assess their practices and reduce nutrient and soil loss. The program aligns with goals set in legislation passed this year by Senator Ram Villivalam and Representative Michael Kelly.

Resources for the initiative come from a partnership between IDOA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS), and the Sangamon County Soil and Water Conservation District. This collaboration aims to leverage $3.5 million in state funds to capture $9.8 million in federal funding.

Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II praised the effort: "This is a great step forward for Illinois agriculture." He also acknowledged Sen. Villivalam and Rep. Kelly for their roles in making this initiative possible.

Caroline Wade, STAR Executive Director, highlighted STAR's potential impact: "The standardized STAR framework provides producers, investors, and supply chain partners a clear roadmap for increasing conservation outcomes."

Eliot Clay from the Illinois Environmental Council expressed support: "It's great to see the administration taking a tested, science-backed approach to wisely aligning resources invested in improving soil health."

Rich Guebert, President of Illinois Farm Bureau, also supported the quick implementation efforts: "Our goal has always been to bring forward successful conservation practices to reduce nutrient losses in a voluntary manner."

State Senator Ram Villivalam described SB 1701 as essential for farmers and environmentalists alike: "With the implementation of SB 1701, the state of Illinois is taking a major step forward in protecting the health of our soil."

State Representative Michael Kelly emphasized agriculture's significance: "The STAR initiative will help keep Illinois agriculture a source of prosperity and enrichment for generations to come."