URBANA, Ill. — A contingent from University of Illinois Extension and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences traveled to Springfield recently for the 2024 Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day to gather bi-partisan support for initiatives strengthening agriculture-related measures within the state. The state of Illinois is a leading producer of soybeans, corn, and swine as well as many other specialty crops.
The day was organized by the Illinois Department of Agriculture and featured opening remarks by IDOA Director Jerry Costello II and Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. Speakers included Senator Dorris Turner, Senator Win Stoller, Representative Sonya Harper, and Representative Charles Meier. Youth leaders from the 4-H Leadership Team were present with remarks from 4-H Leadership Team Chairman Ross Vancil of Henderson County included as part of the program.
The attendees were able to meet with numerous legislators to share information about University of Illinois efforts to support agriculture through the College of ACES as well as Illinois Extension and its programs, including 4-H Youth Development.
Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities. Illinois Extension is part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.