Illinois e-News Release

December 1, 2025

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Registration is officially open, so start making plans now to attend one of the two 2026 Conservation Cropping Seminars. This year’s seminars bring together distinguished speakers and special guests including Ray Archuleta, Soil Health Specialist; Bryan Young, Professor of Weed Science at Purdue University; Tom Kilcer, Advanced Ag Systems; S.T.A.R Representatives; and an interactive panel of Illinois farmers from the region for each seminar.  

This event is a great opportunity to gain additional knowledge about improving soil health, implementing cover crops (including for use as forage), improving weed management, and to hear the latest on agronomic research from some of the top leaders in the field.  

January 27, 2026 - DeKalb County Farm Bureau – 1350 W. Prairie Drive in Sycamore, IL – Contact Mitchell (217) 206-0085

January 28, 2026 - The Double Tree Hotel – 222 Potomac Blvd in Mount Vernon, IL– Contact Deb (217) 606-1153

The seminars are in-person only, so register early to reserve a spot at the location closest to you. Register online at www.ccswcd.com/conservation-cropping-seminars or call the Champaign County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) at (217) 352-3536. Registration closes on January 9, 2026.

Each seminar costs $25 payable by check or credit card and includes lunch. Cost for students will be reduced to $10. The 2026 events start early and end before 4 p.m. with time scheduled during the day to meet speakers and sponsors or visit with other participants in a small group setting. Soil and Water CEUs will be available. 

The seminars are organized and made possible with the involvement and support of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Champaign County Soil and Water Conservation District, Pro Harvest, and local Soil & Water Conservation Districts. Look for upcoming reminders in newspaper articles, ads, and social media posts. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and network with other conservation-minded experts and attendees. Register by January 9, 2026, at www.ccswcd.com/conservation-cropping-seminars. Spots are limited, so sign-up today!