In some ways, Illinois farmers have it good. Much of the state boasts rich, dark soil that helps rank its production of corn and soybeans among the highest in the nation. Because the Prairie State is receiving frequent and more intense rainfall, it is increasingly important that farmers adopt conservation practices to keep soil nutrients in place. One of the best ways to combat this trend is to plant cover crops, which provide a natural way of protecting the soil and improving water quality. Thanks to American Farmland Trust’s support for the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s Fall Covers for Spring Savings program, more Illinois farmers are using cover crops, saving cash, and engaging in sound conservation practices. 

In this episode of No Farms No Future, we’ll introduce you to 26-year-old farmer Frank Rademacher and AFT’s Midwest Director Kris Reynolds. Both are experienced Illinois farmers, and have been working with and promoting the use of cover crops for years. 

No Farms No Future is a podcast created through a collaboration between Heritage Radio Network, American Farmland Trust, and The Food Voice.

Resources:

Rademacher Farms

Fall Covers for Spring Savings Crop Premium Discount Program

AFT Midwest District

Illinois Corn Growers Association

Illinois Dept. of Agriculture (Cover Crops page)

To learn more about American Farmland Trust go to farmland.org. 

Episode photo by Shawn Linehan

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